Vacuum lifters and magnetic lifters are specialised non-fixed load lifting attachments that grip a load by suction or magnetic force rather than by sling, hook or clamp. They are used mainly for flat, smooth-surfaced loads — sheet steel, glass, panels, slabs — where conventional slinging points are impractical or where the load’s surface must not be marked.
A vacuum lifter uses one or more pads pressed against the load surface, with air evacuated by pump to create a pressure differential that holds the load against the pad. It depends on the load surface being clean, flat, and non-porous enough to hold a seal — dust, moisture, paint texture, or surface damage can all break the seal. Most units include a vacuum reservoir and a warning system (audible or visual) that triggers if vacuum pressure drops toward the point where grip would fail, along with a battery or reservoir backup so a power loss does not cause instant release.
A magnetic lifter uses permanent magnets, electromagnets, or a switchable permanent-magnet mechanism to grip ferrous loads. Electromagnetic types are entirely dependent on continuous electrical power — a supply failure with no backup releases the load — so many designs use switchable permanent magnets instead, which hold mechanically once engaged and require a deliberate mechanical action to release, removing dependence on continuous power.
Before use: check the rated capacity against the actual load weight and surface condition (magnetic lifters in particular are typically derated on thin, coated, or non-flat steel); confirm the load surface is clean and within the surface-finish tolerance the manufacturer specifies; test the seal or magnetic engagement with the load lifted only slightly clear of its support before proceeding with the full lift; and confirm any low-vacuum or power-loss alarm and backup system is functional. Because failure of a vacuum or magnetic lifter gives little or no warning before release, never work or stand beneath a suspended load held this way.
Standarder: EN 13155 (cranes — safety — non-fixed load lifting attachments)