Altmann GmbH modernizes three bridge crane systems at IABG in record time

Conversion of the energy supply using a cleanroom-compatible energy chain with enclosure.

Modernized crane system

Upgrade of the control cabinets to the latest control system generation.

Altmann GmbH has successfully completed the modernization of three bridge crane systems at the space test center of IABG-Industrieanlagen-Betriebsgesellschaft mbH in Ottobrunn. The aim was to increase system availability, ensure operational material flow under ISO 8 clean room conditions, and bring the crane systems up to the current state of the art – all within a project period of just four weeks.

Initial situation

The three crane systems dated from the 1980s and were equipped with direct current motors and cable drag chains.
The cranes are used for the internal transport of aerospace and industrial test specimens as well as IABG material, partly in highly sensitive clean room environments.

Scope of modernization

Altmann GmbH carried out a complete technical overhaul of the systems:

– Drive technology: Replacement of all crane, trolley, and hoist motors with modern, frequency-controlled drives
– Integration: Design and manufacture of custom-fit adapters for integrating the new motors
– Control technology: Complete conversion of the control cabinets to the latest generation of control systems
– Operation: Installation of a modern radio remote control for greater flexibility and safety
– Power supply: Installation of cleanroom-compatible energy chains with enclosure
– Safety & precision: Installation of laser distance sensors for pre- and end-of-travel shutdown of crane travel

Special challenge: Time

The entire scope of the project – from disassembly, measurement, design of the adapter pieces, production, assembly to commissioning – was completed in just four weeks. This enabled virtually uninterrupted operation at the IABG space test center.

Statement

"This project shows how efficiently and flexibly we can operate, even when it comes to complex modernizations during ongoing operations. The combination of state-of-the-art control and drive technology, cleanroom-compatible energy supply, and laser precision brings IABG's crane systems up to the latest standards and ensures their availability for many years to come."
Robert Altmann, Managing Director – Altmann GmbH

Long-standing partnership

Altmann GmbH had already been commissioned by IABG for several crane projects in the past.
The current project confirms the close cooperation and trust in Altmann's expertise in the modernization of highly sophisticated crane systems.