VB – V-Block:
A Flexible and Versatile Roll Lifter Tool

In industries such as packaging, printing, and textiles, handling large rolls mounted on mandrels or shafts is a daily operation. Replacing these heavy, unwieldy rolls presents a consistent challenge – not only due to their weight but also the need for safe and ergonomic handling in confined or fast-paced environments.

To meet this challenge, specialised roll lifter tools have become indispensable. One such tool, widely used in conjunction with minilifts, is the V-block – a deceptively simple, yet highly effective support mechanism.

The V-block reimagined. Photo of the roll lifting tool, the V-block, seen slightly from above.

The V-block (VB), in its most basic form, is simply a block with a large V-shaped groove in the middle. Such a block can be placed on a platform and used to keep a cylindrical object in place during transport. This fundamental design makes it ideal for securely cradling rolls during lifting, positioning, or replacement.

In our V-block solution, the traditional solid block has been redesigned: it is now constructed from formed sheet metal, with a geometry that more closely resembles a V with a flat base and open edges at the top. This evolution in design improves compatibility with a variety of roll sizes while maintaining stability. However, for historical and industry-standard reasons, the term “block” continues to be used.

The combination of a minilift and a roll lifting tool with this redesigned V-block creates an integrated system that enhances roll-changing operations – offering both safety and ergonomic benefits.

Image collage of a lightweight minilift and the V-block roll lifter tool. Illustrates the modular principles of our lifter design: that you can build your lifter to fit your needs.

Rolling into Action:
– The Top 3 Ways a Roll Lifter Tool Such as the V-Block Powers Industry Operations

In industries like packaging, printing, and textiles, efficiency and safety go hand in hand – especially when handling large rolls. The V-block roll lifter tool is a versatile and essential tool that streamlines roll handling in three key scenarios.

1. Loading Rolls in Storage or Warehouse Areas

Large rolls are heavy, cumbersome and not to say, dangerous, to move around without proper equipment. With the V-block, this task becomes much easier. Whether it’s tilting or rolling a heavy roll onto the V-block from a pallet, the V-block provides a stable base, making roll handling in storage areas quick and secure.

To photos of large rolls in storage or warehouse areas. Left photo: large white rolls on a pallet. Lifting machine with V-block roll lifting tool ready to support a roll. Right photo: To workers with a minilift in a storage area. The woman is tilting a large roll onto the v-block tool. Partially AL-generated.

2. Replacing Rolls on Mandrels

When it’s time to replace a used roll with a new one, the V-block ensures a smooth, safe process. By securely cradling the new roll, it helps to manage the replacement with minimal effort, reducing strain and improving overall safety on the production floor.

Photo collage of rolls on mandrels being replaced. Left photo: Man with minilift and v-block replacing roll on a machine with a mandrel. Middle photo: Minilift loading v-block with roll from a mandrel. Right photo: minilift with large roll on a v-block ready to replace used roll on a mandrel. Partially AI-generated.

3. Replacing Rolls with Shafts

In a machine environment, where many rolls are mounted on shafts, the V-block plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and controlled roll replacement. Its ability to securely support the roll during the changeover reduces the risk of damage to both the roll and the machinery, all while improving operational efficiency.

Photo collage of rolls with shafts being replaced. Left photo: Male worker in front of minilift with V-block and roll with a shaft. Middle photo: Female worker about to replace a roll with a shaft in a shaft cradle in a machine. Right photo: Female worker: reorienting the roll on a V-Block to fit into the shaft support in a machine. Partially AI-generated.

Each of these scenarios highlights the V-block’s versatility and importance in handling rolls safely and efficiently across various operations. Let’s explore each one in more detail.

From Pallet to Perfect Position:
– Effortless Roll Loading in Storage Areas

With the V-block, loading your minilift becomes a breeze. There are two simple ways to load the V-block, depending on the orientation of the roll on the pallet.

Most often, rolls arrive in the warehouse in a vertical position. In this case, all you need to do is position the V-block at the same height as the base of the roll and gently tip the roll onto the V-block. Simple and straightforward.

Photo series demonstrating how to load the V-block from a pallet. A worker is tilting the roll gently onto the roll handling device.

In the second scenario, the roll might be lying flat, in a horizontal position. This is where the flat edges of the V-block come into their own. Simply align the edges with the base of the roll and roll it slowly onto the V-block. No hassle, no fuss.

Photo series showing how to get a roll onto a V-block roll lifter tool. The worker slowly rolls the roll from the pallet onto the V-block.

Swap Rolls with Ease
– Quick Roll Replacement on Mandrels

With the V-block, changing rolls on mandrels in e.g film wrapping machines, labelling machines or packaging machines has never been easier.

Simply position the roll lifter in front of the mandrel, then adjust the height of the roll, ensuring that the hole in the roll aligns with the exact height of the mandrel. Now turn the V-block horizontally so that the hole in the roll is right in front of the mandrel. Next, gently push the minilift forward, allowing the mandrel to enter the hole in the roll.

With a light push of your hand, slide the roll into position on the mandrel. Once the roll is securely in place, lower the V-block and remove the lifter. Easy peasy!

Photo series demonstrating how to replace a roll on a mandrel with the roll handling tool, the V-Block.

Swift Shaft Swaps
– Replace Rolls with Shafts in a Flash

Replacing large rolls on a shaft in a machine can often be tricky. There is not much room and the roll is heavy. However, with our V-block, the process becomes simple and safe.

All you need to do is position the minilift with the roll and shaft just above the shaft support or shaft cradle on the machine. Then, gently lower the roll until the roll’s shaft is securely in the support or cradle. Once you’ve ensured the roll is safely in place, slowly lower the V-block and carefully remove the lifter.

Photo series illustrating how to place a roll with a shaft safely into the shaft support or shaft cradle.

One Lifter, Infinite Configurations
– The Power of Modular Flexibility

Photo of worker placing a roll handling tool on a minilift. Text says: New day. New tool, Same Lifter. Endless Possibilities with Modular Design.

One of the key advantages of a lifting tool like the V-block is its brilliant modular design.

What does this mean for you? It means you get maximum flexibility with just one lifter, allowing you to adapt your setup for various tasks and loads. Think of it like building with Lego® – each piece fits together, but it’s entirely up to you how you combine them.

With this kind of flexibility, you can easily mix and match your lifting tool and load. Once you’ve used the V-block to load a roll onto a mandrel, simply switch to a different tool – perhaps a crane arm to lift a heavy lid off a machine, or a platform or fork to move bulky boxes around the storage area. The beauty of this system is how quickly and hassle-free you can switch between different tools, allowing you to adjust your setup on the go.

So, whether you’re dealing with rolls, boxes, or machinery, the modular approach of our electric lifters ensures you’re always ready to tackle the next task with ease and efficiency.

How Exactly Does the V-Block Work?

Illustration of the V-block and its components: A tool arm and a plate with a pin.

The V-block is designed to lift and rotate rolls that are place on it. The V-block consist of a tool arm and V-shaped plate with a pin.

The tool arm is fitted with a bearing at the end into which the pin from the plate fits. This allows the roll to be rotated on the V-block.

Features

Easy orientation of roll core due to rotating V-platform.
Flat edge to allow roll to be rolled from pallet to VB.
Wide range of roll diameters are supported by the geometry of the VB.
Easily customizable: dimensions can be modified to customer specifications.
Rugged construction for industrial use. With its all-stainless steel construction, the VB is built to last and for use in demanding industrial environments.
Available in hygienic design for use in cleanrooms and the food/beverage industry.