64 RAMP EQUIPMENT NEWS
number of its existing products. Its first new product was that of a truck-based cargo transporter for the movement of cargo pallets and containers with a total weight of up to 14 tonnes. Here, the load platform is mounted on the chassis with a load capacity of 25 tonnes. Cargo movement is effected by zinc-coated, chain-driven transport rollers which are positioned along the complete length of the platform. The platform is further equipped with automatically operating mechanical pallet stops for the safe restraint of cargo during platform movement and transport on the apron. The container transporter is intended for the transportation of heavy duty goods, as well as for overlong goods for long distances. This kind of truck-based cargo loader and transporter is especially effective in airports at which the cargo terminal is remote from the position of the aircraft when parked. The company’s second new product is that of a catering hi-lift (specifically, the AL-10/14 Regio), which is targeted at small and midsized airports. This catering vehicle is based on an Isuzu chassis with a 7.5 tonne total weight. The van body has a total length of 5 metres and can be raised from 2.4 to 4.7 metres. Such a height range allows the operator to serve all narrow-bodied aircraft. A half cab version is also available, with a height range of 1.4 to 4.7 metres. The AL-10/14 Regio can be equipped with a wide range of options, such as a driven rear platform, parking sensors, rear view camera and other extras, according to AHM requirements.
The company has also extensively
reworked its container transporter, the APK-KB. This transporter and loader are intended to transport and load aircraft baggage containers. The APK-KB can very quickly load or unload an entire narrow-bodied aircraft and then bring baggage containers to the terminal. The actual modification involved the use of a series-produced chassis instead of one that was specially developed. Now Las-1 is ready to deliver the APK-KB on a variety of chassis including Iveco, MAZ, Mercedes and others. All this is intended to increase reliability and decrease the purchase price. The second modification involved the company’s standard catering hi-lift, the AL-10/14. Las-1 found that it could significantly enlarge the working height range by using a new method to cut the driver’s cab. The resulting half cab version is fitted with two seats in the cab and can serve aircraft with door sill heights from 1.4 metres. This model can now be used for all kinds of aircraft. Concerning the actual market situation, the company sees an increasing number of small and midsize airports and therefore
GROUND HANDLING INTERNATIONAL APRIL 2013
it will enlarge its efforts to develop new technical solutions to help raise the effectiveness of such airports.
Aviramp solution taken up by Exeter International
Exeter airport has become the first station to take delivery of the second generation Aviramp Lite.
Unlike its larger Aviramp counterparts, this unit is not powered, although in line with all of the other models, it comprises an aluminium and steel construction, making it lightweight, virtually maintenance-free and easily operated by one person. Its build also enhances its stability for towing around the airport, since it has a very low centre of gravity. The operating height of the unit is variable, from 100 centimetres to 160 centimetres, and is controlled by a handle connected to screw type supports, which alleviates the need for a pawl locking system. It also means that the height can be adjusted while deployed, since the aircraft’s height changes according to load variation. As with the other Aviramp models, when the walkway is operating at maximum height, the angle produced is a very gentle slope that suits assisted wheelchair users; this is fully accessible by the PRM. This particular model eliminates most of the problems encountered when trying to use an Ambulift on smaller aircraft whilst keeping PRM passenger’s dignity intact. Customers already using other Aviramp models have found that most PRMs elect to walk up the ramps if they are capable, rather than being pushed in a wheelchair. Aviramp Lite can be deployed in seconds and is simple in operation; it incorporates a host of safety features that are present in larger models. These include a swivel aircraft docking edge that has a rubberised front; sliding handrail gates with a rubberised leading edge and a handbrake. The Lite version also incorporates Ackermann type steering rather than the standard turntable type. Once against the aircraft, four hydraulic
jacks are pumped down by hand which lifts the wheels slightly, leaving a fully stable platform. The gas strut assisted rear ramps are then extended and locked into position. One of the biggest safety features found in all the Aviramp models is the
anti-slip floor system, which provides sure-footed traction, even in wet weather. This aluminium floor is actually unique to Ra’alloy Ramps and has already proved successful with companies who have taken delivery of Aviramps. In fact, many are even considering re-lining their conventional airstairs with this material. The first ramp delivered to Exeter is a basic model and has a standard two rail-type hand railing fitted, although the company will also be manufacturing the unit with optional solid side panels, in line with its other models. The boards are designed to enhance passenger safety whilst at the same time offering opportunities for sponsorship.
Meanwhile, the airport authorities have confirmed that the unit will be mainly used on Q400 type aircraft via the rear door. However, the Aviramp Lite can also be deployed at the front door, by using an optional extension ramp that bridges the factory fitted stairs of the aircraft. The airport is also keen to use the Lite to assist operations when loading heavy wheelchairs into the hold of the aircraft. Helpfully, the equipment can also be used on higher sills such as those found on the Dornier and Saab. Finally, the manufacturer also
reveals that it has forward orders from international carriers such as Qantas Link.
Nitrogen trolley order for Russia
Moscow’s Domodedovo airport has just purchased a number of nitrogen booster trolleys from Semmco. The addition of the booster offers increased operational performance and the GSE benefits from retractable hose reels, a colour-coded control panel for ease of operation and a new design that offers reduced maintenance. The booster version reduces a unit’s overall size and weight, making it easier to handle by just one operator. Also new from the company is a water sterilisation rig: this is housed in four wheel trolley making it suitable for hangar and line use. Each dosing pump is calibrated in the factory to aircraft type specific ranges. The unit comprises water in and out, antibacterial lined hoses of 20 metres’ length, which are FDA (Food and Drug) approved. A dosing meter and proportional pump for high or low dose flush and sterilisation are also included within the package.
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