Working at height involves major risks. This is true for the horticulture sector as well, of course. Employers want staff or contractors to be able to carry out their work without risk.
After a long research and development process, Van der Waay has unveiled their new concept consisting of the Glass Repair Cart and the Glass Elevator.
The air vents can remain open during the repair
The Glass Repair Cart offers space for two people who are safely leashed up during the work. At the press of a button, the Cart drives through the glass gutters to the repair spot. Releasing the button is sufficient to block the Cart immediately so that unintentional movement is no longer possible.
The glass pane is picked up and maneuvered with the vacuum rack hanging on a swivel arm. The electric winch and joystick bring the vacuum rack to the right height, down to the last millimeter.
A lightweight 24V Lithium battery was chosen for the drive system. This type of battery delivers a constant current for a long time, can be replaced quickly, and can be recharged in no time.
The vacuum rack
Bending tool makes the glass pane spring slightly
Thanks to a clever patent-pending invention, it is possible to keep using the original glass pane dimensions instead of combining smaller panes and additional profiles. This is because it reverts to an air vent. With the bending tool provided, the small glass pane under the air vent is slightly deformed. This deformation is just enough to fit the glass pane into the rods. After installation, the pane springs back, and the greenhouse cover is restored to its original condition.
Thanks to the folding walkways, work can be done safely, inside under the ridge
Tom Zwanenburg, responsible for sales at Van der Waay, lists the advantages: "There is no longer an increased risk of leaks, no need for different glass in stock and there is less light interception than when using profiles."
All work is carried out from the outside. Tom: "In times of virus pressure and hygiene protocols, this is a very important advantage." Another advantage is that the air vents can remain open, and screen cloths closed, during the repair.
GRC on platform, elevator in position
The Glass Repair Cart fits on the platform of a Top Cleaner greenhouse deck cleaner, and can therefore be moved along the greenhouse wall. Alternatively, it can be placed directly on the right canopy using a crane. However, a platform is preferred: more user convenience and safer work.
With the aid of the Glass Elevator, the panes can be raised. This elevator can be attached to the platform of the Top Cleaner or mounted to the corner of the greenhouse with the aid of special support.
Glass elevator mounted on the greenhouse
After placing the glass, it is sent up by pressing a button. Once at the top, the glass rack with the pane is tilted horizontally and the glass pane is placed on the Glass Repair Cart with the help of the vacuum rack.
Finally, a waste glass container and a tool container are also available, which can also be raised with the Glass Elevator. Tom: "This means we can offer a complete concept.
The Glass Repair Cart and the Glass Elevator are designed and built in accordance with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and have a CE mark.
Tom is proud that Van der Waay can contribute with these solutions to increasing this aspect of safety in the horticultural sector: "The first units have been built and are on their way to the customer."
