Full assembly of WPH-SW-HD-100 in cycle testing prior to paint.

Unit Load Handling Systems, Inc. of Alvin and Friendswood, Texas has shipped two custom-designed, very large diameter pipe hold-down attachments to a customer in the Middle East.

These clamps represent the largest pipe clamps yet built by ULH.

They will handle pipe of 100 in. (2.54 m) diameter weighing up to 30,000 lb. (13,600 kg) in 40 ft. (12.2 m) lengths. Other smaller diameters will also be clamped, all the way down to a 2 in. (50 mm) diameter.

The attachments will be fitted to a pair of Hyster forklifts currently operating at the customer's location. Special mounting adapters fix the clamps to the forklifts' carriages.

The clamps will arrive on site completely plumbed, in kitted form, ready to be assembled.

Fully assembled, their dimensions are impressive. The length of the arms from the main pivot to the tip is 11 ft. (3.35 m), and, at full opening, the clamp stands 13.5 ft. (4.1 m) high to the top of the main arm.

In order to ship these clamps in one 20 ft. container, they are designed to ship as modules that fit neatly together. All hoses are connected to the cylinders and labeled, corresponding to their connection points. The modules are fitted with materials handling fixtures for easy unloading and transport.

Meeting this unusual application need with bespoke design is another example of the ULH's flexibility and capability, according to spokesman Brian Scally.