What is a Coil Transfer Cart?
A Coil Transfer Cart is a heavy-duty, powered vehicle that transports coiled metal. Its key characteristic is a customized load-handling mechanism designed to safely cradle, lift, and carry coils without damaging them.
They can be either Rail-Guided (RGV) or Trackless (AGV), with the choice depending on the specific application, load capacity, and layout flexibility required.
Key Design Features & Components
The design is all about safely handling the unique shape and weight of coils.
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Coil Cradle / V-Shaped Chassis: The most common feature. The cart has a V-shaped or arced deck that perfectly cradles the coil, preventing it from rolling or shifting during transport. Some use mandrels (a large drum) that inserts into the coil's center hole for extremely secure handling.
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Load Handling Mechanism:
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Lifting Deck: The entire cradle can be lifted and lowered using hydraulic cylinders or electromechanical actuators. This allows for transfer to and from fixed stands or conveyors.
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Powered Rollers: The cradle may contain powered rollers that rotate to unload the coil onto a processing line.
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Tilting Mechanism: Some carts can tilt the coil to a specific angle for feeding into uncoilers.
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High-Capacity Structure: Built with reinforced steel to handle extreme weights, often ranging from 5 tons to over 100 tons.
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Guidance & Power:
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Rail-Guided (RGV): Most common for the heaviest coils and in harsh environments (e.g., hot rolling mills). Provides excellent precision for aligning with processing equipment.
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Trackless (AGV): Gaining popularity for its flexibility in warehouses and finishing lines. Uses laser or magnetic guidance to move between storage and production areas.
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Safety Systems: Critical due to the immense loads.
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Overload Protection.
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Anti-Collision Sensors (especially for trackless versions).
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Emergency Stop Buttons.
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Warning Lights and Alarms.
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Common Applications in the Metal Industry
Coil transfer carts are used throughout the metal production and supply chain:
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Hot Rolling Mills: Transporting hot coils from the downcoiler to the cooling yard or storage.
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Cold Rolling Mills: Moving coils between rolling stands, annealing furnaces, and coating lines.
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Processing & Finishing Lines: Transferring coils to and from slitting, cut-to-length, or galvanizing lines.
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Warehousing: Automating the movement of coils within a storage facility, from receiving to shipping.