2008-12-08
Tsubakimoto Chain introduces the New Compact Tsubaki Zip Chain Lifter Series
New model offers versatile, compact size
Introduction
Tsubakimoto Chain (Headquarters: Osaka, Japan. Chairman and President: Takashi Fukunaga) has added a smaller, compact model to the popular Tsubaki ZIP CHAIN LIFTER series, which went on sale in June 2008. Sales of the Compact ZIP CHAIN LIFTER industrial lift table will commence from January 5.
The ZIP CHAIN LIFTER industrial lift table is capable of pushing and pulling. It has been given the name "ZIP CHAIN LIFTER" because it consists of two chains that interlock in zip-like fashion to form a single, strong column. The Tsubaki ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table utilizes ZIP CHAIN technology in its lifting mechanism (patent pending) to enable high-speed, high-frequency operation that cannot be achieved with conventional lifting equipment. It is already employed across a variety of fields, including the automobile industry, where it is used as a lifting platform, and the theatre, where it is used as a stage lift.
The Tsubaki Compact ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table, the latest addition to the ZIP CHAIN LIFTER family, goes on sale from January 5. Its compact, space-conscious design was developed in response to customer requests for a smaller ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table capable of handling lighter loads.
The new Compact ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table joins the existing lineup consisting of 750 kg, 1,000 kg, and 2,000 kg models to support a wider range of lifting applications.
Features
In addition to the high-speed operation and high repeated positioning accuracy inherited from the existing ZIP CHAIN LIFTER series, the new Compact ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table offers the following features:
- High-speed operation
ZIP CHAIN chains enable considerably faster operation than that provided by conventional electrical or hydraulic lifting equipment.
The high-speed model is among the best in its class, with high-speed operation of 500 mm per second for upward or downward strokes. - High repeated positioning accuracy of ±1 mm
The ZIP CHAIN LIFTER lifting mechanism operates by raising and lowering the platform directly up at a constant speed in synch with the rotational velocity of the motor. As a result, position control is easy, allowing repeated positioning accuracy of within ±1 mm. (See reference material) - Compact, space-saving design allows installation in an area roughly the
size of a sheet of B3 paper
Simple, compact design allows loads to be loaded and removed from four directions. As table guides, cylinders, and other parts do not jut out the sides, the Compact ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table can be installed in a space of 540 x 300 mm - approximately the size of a sheet of B3 paper. This provides an unparalleled degree of freedom when it comes to layout design for production and logistics lines. - Complete modular design enables easy moving of installation locations
The Tsubaki ZIP CHAIN LIFTER series runs on electricity, meaning it is ready for operation at the flick of a switch. Unlike competing pneumatic or hydraulic models, they do not require troublesome equipment or piping, allowing them to be moved easily between installation locations.
Applications
The Compact ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table is suited to a variety of lifting applications. It is perfect for the following processes and other processes that require accurate positioning and synchronization with adjacent equipment.
- Supplying machine parts
- Lifting on manufacturing lines for electrical, electronic, LCD, semiconductor, and small precision devices
Product Lineup
Available as a standard or high-speed model
| Type | Lifting Weight | Max. Lifting Speed | Lifting Stroke | Time per 500 mm | Table Size (W x L) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lifting | Lowering | |||||
| Standard (Induction motor) |
50 kg | 6 m/min | 500 mm | Approx. 6 s |
Approx. 6 s |
540 x 300 mm |
| High-speed (Servo motor) |
20 kg | 50 m/min | 500 mm | Approx. 1 s |
Approx. 1 s |
|
Reference - 2,000 kg Lifter: Lifting weight: 2,000 kg, Lifting speed: 30 m/min, Table size: 2,100 x 2,350 mm
Release Date
January 5, 2009
Retail Price
From ¥300,000
Sales Forecast
First year: 200 units
Reference Material
- ZIP CHAIN and ZIP CHAIN LIFTER Mechanism

- Comparison of ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table with Electric/Hydraulic Lifters
- (1) Changes in Speed from Start to Stop
ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table

Electric/Hydraulic Lifter (Example)

- (2) Feature Comparison
- (1) Changes in Speed from Start to Stop
| ZIP CHAIN LIFTER table | Hydraulic lifter | Electric lifter | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | 1 million times or more | 100,000 to 300,000 times | |
| Speed/Position Control | Easy | Difficult | Possible |
| Lifting Speed | Fast | Slow | Slow |
| Jog Operation | Easy | Difficult | Difficult |
