Alba 8A - User Manual

The device described in this manual is a Traction and Lifting Apparatus, also referred to as a Pulling and Lifting Winch. It is designed for handling loads on vertical, horizontal, and inclined planes. The manufacturer is ALBA-MACREL GROUP S.L., and the product is part of their "Bee Access: Innovation at Elevation" line. The manual covers models 8A, 16A, and 32A.

Function Description:

The apparatus is a portable lifting device equipped with a pass-through cable system. It operates by drawing the cable in a straight line using internal clamps. The stress is transferred to maneuver levers (forward or reverse) via a removable drive lever. A key safety feature prevents the apparatus from being unlocked to remove the cable when it is under load. Additionally, it incorporates a device that prevents the scaffold from being raised if the load exceeds 2.5 times the work load limit. The apparatus is suitable for a wide range of applications, including construction, public works, mining, electricity and communications, shipyards, transport (railways), fire brigades, garages, agriculture, forestry, chemical and oil industries, and military uses.

Important Technical Specifications:

The manual provides detailed specifications for the 8A, 16A, and 32A models:

Specification	Unit	8A	16A	32A
Rated lifting capacity	kg	800	1600	3200
Cable feed rate per cycle driven	mm	54	58	45
Nominal stress on the lever	kg	29	40	53
Net weight (with no cable-lever)	kg	6.4	13.7	23.7
Weight when packed	kg	7.7	16	26.3
Packaging measurements	cm	44x9x28	56x12x36	70x11x38

Cable Specifications:

Cable Specification	Unit	8A	16A	32A
Diameter	mm	8.3	11.3	16.3
Breaking load	kg	4800	9600	19200
Weight/m	kg	0.27	0.51	1

Dimensions (in mm):

Model	A	B	C	D	E	F	G/G'	H
8A	430	170	268	18	38	109	645	60
16A	546	203	336	22	48	120	635/1055	82
32A	663	232	372	28	50	136	635/1055	105

The permitted operating temperature ranges from -5 °C to +40 °C, and the permitted relative humidity is from 30% to 90% (at 20 °C).

Usage Features:

The apparatus is designed for ease of use and safety.

• Commissioning: The cable must be unrolled carefully to prevent kinks and twists, which can damage the cable over time. The apparatus is fastened to a fixed point using a coupling bolt, which is the only approved fastening point. The alignment pin is hooked into the unlocking claw, and the cable is introduced into the apparatus. Once the cable is tight and the lever is in position, the apparatus is ready for use.
• Load Hook-up: The cable is supplied with a coupling featuring a safety lock. This safety lock must be engaged when the load is being moved. Loads should be attached directly or via slings to specific dragging/lifting points, ensuring stability. The traction apparatus cable itself should never be used to secure or sling loads, nor should it be used to attach to another traction device.
• Operation: The equipment moves back-and-forth longitudinally with the lever in forward or reverse gear. The path of the lever depends on the user's intent but must remain within the apparatus's limits. Simultaneous engagement of both forward and reverse gears is prohibited.
• Safety Devices: The equipment includes a safety screw with a safety nut to prevent overloading in forward gear. This device protects the mechanism and prevents hoisting if the load exceeds 2.5 times the work load limit (when operating with a force of up to 1 kN on the lever). If the safety screw breaks, it must be replaced with an identical original part, and the cause of overloading must be investigated. The apparatus should never be operated with a broken safety screw or when the apparatus is loaded.
• Prohibited Uses: The manual explicitly lists several prohibited actions to ensure safety, including using the apparatus with loads exceeding its nominal capacity, using it for purposes other than designed, obstructing lever movement, engaging both levers simultaneously, using non-original drive levers or drive systems, replacing the safety screw with a different type, replacing the safety screw when the apparatus is loaded, handling loaded parts other than drive levers, using it in explosive environments, or modifying it without manufacturer consent. For the cable, prohibited uses include securing/slinging loads with the coupling, subjecting the cable end to stress, using it when impaired, using non-ALBA cables, or allowing the cable to rub against surfaces other than pulleys.
• Individual Protection Equipment (IPE): Recommended IPE includes safety footwear (anti-perforation, anti-slip), a hard hat, work gloves (to prevent abrasions/cuts from the cable), and a reflective vest/clothing when vehicles are in the vicinity.

Maintenance Features:

Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and safe operation of the apparatus.

• General Maintenance: The apparatus should be inspected regularly for defects, dents, or broken parts, especially before each use. Any broken parts must be replaced with new original parts. The use of non-original spare parts or unauthorized modifications voids the manufacturer's liability and guarantee.
• Oiling the Lifting Apparatus: The apparatus should be oiled frequently, particularly after lengthy use or if the lowering operation becomes stiff. Before oiling, the apparatus should be cleaned. SAE 90 or SAE 140 oil is recommended. If stored for a long time, it should be well greased to protect against corrosion.
• Cleaning Procedure: Submerge the apparatus in a bath of oil, petrol, or similar for a considerable time (e.g., overnight). Engage the levers several times to ensure cleaning agents penetrate the mechanism. Remove the apparatus, place it with levers face down to drain residue, and allow it to dry before oiling. WARNING: Solvents like acetone, trichloroethylene, or trichloroethane are prohibited due to high toxicity and environmental concerns. Care must be taken with flammable cleaning agents.
• Cable Maintenance: The cable's condition is critical. Its diameter should be checked regularly; replacement is necessary if the diameter has reduced by 10% or more. Visual inspection should look for kinks, twists, worn or broken wires (replace if 12 broken wires in a 25 cm section), loose/open wires, heat damage, and external/internal oxidation. The cable should be cleaned and greased, ensuring lubricant penetrates correctly.
• Coupling Maintenance: The safety lock on the cable's end coupling must be checked for deformation and proper locking. A defective safety lock can cause the coupling to disengage when the cable is extended.
• Troubleshooting: The manual provides a table for locating and dealing with common faults, such as a stuck cable, stiff levers, or a shaking load during lowering. Solutions typically involve replacing the cable, lubricating the apparatus, or replacing the safety screw.
• Storage: After dismantling, the apparatus and cables should be stored in a dry place, protected from the elements. Cleaning and covering the equipment after use will extend its service life.