The Ultimate Guide to Manhole Lifting Equipment

Manhole lifting equipment is essential for safely handling heavy manhole covers, preventing injuries and improving efficiency. In this guide, you’ll learn about various types of manhole lifting equipment, their specific uses, and key factors to consider when choosing the right tool for your needs.

Overview of Top Manhole Lifting Equipment

Here’s a quick overview of the top manhole lifting equipment and what each is best for:

• Best for Frequent Use: APS80 Lifting Cart
• Best for Heavy-Duty Lifting: APS90 Lifting Cart
• Best for Deeply Embedded Covers: LK70 Lifting Cart
• Best for Small to Medium Covers: CL9 Magnetic Cover Lifter
• Best for Versatility: CL10 Magnetic Cover Lifter
• Best for Hinged Covers: CL11 Magnetic Cover Lifter
• Best for Maintenance Tasks: LB5 Magnetic Cover Lifter for Lightweight Covers
• Best for Safe Access: XT1 Nano
• Best for Navigation: XT3 Compass
• Best for Budget: LB8 Manual Cover Lifter Lever

APS80 Lifting Cart - Best for Frequent Use

Specifications:

• Weight: 7kg
• Height (Upper arm retracted): 780mm
• Height (Upper arm extended): 1080mm
• Lifting force (Ideal conditions): 400kg
• Length of lower arm (From back arm): 310mm

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact design
• Ergonomic to minimise injury
• Easy transport and storage

Cons:

• Limited to ideal conditions for maximum lifting force

The APS80 Lifting Cart stands out for its suitability for frequent use. Key features include:

• Compact and lightweight design for easy transport and minimal space usage on small vehicles
• Ergonomic design that promotes pushing down rather than lifting, reducing strain and injury risk
• Transformative utility for crews moving multiple covers daily.

However, it’s worth noting that the maximum lifting force of 400kg is achievable only under ideal conditions. Nevertheless, its efficiency and ease of use make it a favourite among maintenance crews.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 5/5
• Efficiency: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

APS90 Lifting Cart - Best for Heavy-Duty Lifting

Specifications:

• Weight: 10kg
• Height (Upper arm retracted): 1120mm
• Length (Upper arm extended): 1425mm
• Length (Lower arm retracted): 510mm
• Length (Lower arm extended): 700mm
• Lifting force (Ideal conditions): 600kg

Pros:

• High lifting capacity
• Ergonomic and safe design
• Durable construction

Cons:

• Heavier than other models

Designed for heavy-duty lifting, the APS90 Lifting Cart can handle loads up to 600kg. Its robust construction and ergonomic design allow for safe operation, minimising the risk of back injuries by enabling manoeuvres through pushing down rather than lifting. This makes it ideal for lifting heavy manhole covers across various underground networks.

Though heavier at 10kg compared to the APS80, the APS90’s enhanced lifting capacity and ergonomic design make it indispensable for heavy-duty operations.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 5/5
• Efficiency: 4.5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

LK70 Lifting Cart - Best for Deeply Embedded Covers

Specifications:

• Weight (Fully Assembled): 15kg (depending on version)
• Weight of magnets: 18kg each
• Magnet lifting force: 500kg/magnet (1000kg total)
• Dimension between wheels: 1300mm

Pros:

• Excellent for lifting deeply embedded covers
• Powerful magnets enhance lifting force
• Long lever arm for better control

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier

The LK70 Lifting Cart tackles the challenge of lifting heavily embedded cast iron covers obstructed by debris or poor installation. Its robust design and long lever arm enhance control during lift, facilitating the manoeuvring of blocked covers.

Despite its bulk, the LK70’s powerful magnets and lifting capabilities make it reliable for deeply embedded covers, ensuring efficiency and reducing downtime.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4.5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

CL9 Magnetic Cover Lifter - Best for Small to Medium Covers

Specifications:

• Weight: 4kg
• Lifting force: 230kg
• Base Dimension: 160 x 125mm
• Height (Extended): 500mm

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Strong magnetic grip
• Foldable handle for easy storage

Cons:

• Not compatible with wheeled levers

The CL9 Magnetic Cover Lifter is perfect for lifting small to medium-sized metal covers. Its features include:

• Lightweight construction for easy transport
• Foldable handle for convenient storage
• Magnetic feature that secures a grip on metallic covers during lifting, enhancing safety and efficiency.

However, it’s limited to manual lifting only and is not compatible with wheeled levers like the APS80 or APS90. Nonetheless, its portability and strong lifting capacity suit it for frequent use in various settings.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

CL10 Magnetic Cover Lifter - Best for Versatility

Specifications:

• Weight: 7kg
• Lifting force: 300kg
• Base Dimension: 210 x 130mm
• Height (Extended): 705mm

Pros:

• Versatile for various cover types
• Strong lifting force
• Compact and portable

Cons:

• Heavier than some other models

The CL10 Magnetic Cover Lifter’s versatility and strength make it suitable for lifting and moving cast iron and other ferrous material covers. Key features include:

• A rectangular base with 16 strong neodymium magnets providing up to 300kg lifting force
• A telescopic handle that folds for compact storage
• Heavier weight compared to some models

The CL10’s versatility and strong lifting capabilities make it excellent for various applications.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4.5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

CL11 Magnetic Cover Lifter - Best for Hinged Covers

Specifications:

• Weight: 7kg
• Lifting force: 300kg
• Base Dimension: 210 x 130mm
• Height (Extended): 705mm
• Height (Retracted): 375mm

Pros:

• Ideal for hinged covers
• Strong lifting force
• Telescoping handle for easy storage

Cons:

• Limited to ferrous materials

Engineered for hinged covers, the CL11 Magnetic Cover Lifter features:

• A unique extending side foot for optimal lifting geometry
• A telescoping handle that can be folded for easy storage and transport
• A magnetic feature that secures a grip on metallic covers during lifting, enhancing safety and efficiency.

Though limited to ferrous materials, the CL11’s design and strong lifting capabilities make it ideal for hinged covers and grilles.

Rating:

• Price: 4/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4.5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

LB5 Magnetic Cover Lifter for Lightweight Covers - Best for Maintenance Tasks

Specifications:

• Weight: 4.4 lbs
• Lifting Capacity: 154 lbs
• Material: Galvanised Steel

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Strong magnetic grip
• Multipurpose handle

Cons:

• Limited to lightweight covers

The LB5 Magnetic Cover Lifter is designed for lightweight covers, utilising powerful magnets to securely grip the cover. Compact design ensures easy transport and storage, ideal for maintenance tasks. The T handle made of galvanised steel doubles as a lifting hook and a hammer, adding to its functionality.

Though limited to lightweight covers, the LB5’s efficiency and ease of use make it valuable for various maintenance tasks.

Rating:

• Price: 4.5/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

XT1 Nano - Best for Safe Access

Specifications:

• Material: High-performance aluminium
• Compliance: AS3996 rated
• Weight: Lightweight

Pros:

• Strong magnetic force
• Durable and compliant with safety standards
• Compact and portable

Cons:

• Limited to specific applications

The XT1 Nano is designed for safe access to infrastructures, particularly in the water and wastewater industry. Compact design and high-performance materials ensure durability and safety compliance, ideal for professionals enhancing operational efficiency.

Though limited to specific applications, the XT1 Nano’s strong magnetic force and industry compliance make it reliable for safe access and maintenance.

Rating:

• Price: 4.5/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

XT3 Compass - Best for Navigation

Specifications:

• Weight: 150g
• Dimensions: 10 x 6 x 2 cm
• Material: Durable plastic and glass
• Water Resistance: IPX4
• Luminous Dial: Yes

Pros:

• Accurate directional readings
• Durable and water-resistant
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Limited to navigation

The XT3 Compass is designed for outdoor navigation, featuring:

• A durable build that can withstand harsh conditions
• An illuminated dial that enhances visibility in low-light environments, making it effective for nighttime use
• A lightweight and compact design that ensures easy portability for adventurers.

Though limited to navigation, the XT3 Compass’s accurate readings and robust construction make it essential for outdoor enthusiasts.

Rating:

• Price: 4.5/5
• Design: 4.5/5
• Efficiency: 4.5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

LB8 Manual Cover Lifter Lever - Best for Budget

Specifications:

• Weight: 4.5 kg
• Handle length: 1000 mm

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Durable stainless steel construction
• Simple yet effective design

Cons:

• Limited lifting capacity
• Manual operation only

The LB8 Manual Cover Lifter Lever is an excellent budget-friendly option for those needing a reliable tool without breaking the bank. Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, it withstands impact and resists rust. Its simple, effective design balances portability and functionality, making it practical for various lifting tasks.

Though its lifting capacity is limited compared to advanced models, the LB8’s durability and budget-friendliness make it attractive for cost-conscious users.

Rating:

• Price: 5/5
• Design: 4/5
• Efficiency: 3.5/5
• Overall: 4/5

How to choose the right manhole lifting equipment

Selecting manhole lifting equipment requires considering key factors to ensure safety, efficiency, and suitability. The weight of the manhole covers is a crucial factor. Different lifters cater to various weight capacities, so knowing your covers’ typical weight helps in choosing the right manhole cover lifter.

Ergonomic design is also crucial. Equipment that:

• minimises manual handling risks
• aligns with ISO standards can significantly reduce injury risk. Features such as:
  
  • overload protection
  • secure locks enhance safety during operation.

Key considerations for equipment selection include:

• Portability and durability are essential.
• Equipment should be compact and lightweight for easy transport.
• Equipment should be made from durable materials to ensure longevity and reliability.
• Consider the types of covers you handle regularly.
• Consider typical working conditions, such as the environment and available space for operation.

How to Choose the Right Manhole Lifting Equipment for Your Needs

Matching the tool to your specific needs is key to choosing the right manhole lifting equipment. Consider the following:

• Evaluate the environment where the equipment will be used.
• Magnetic and vacuum types grip better in outdoor or moist conditions.
• If you frequently handle heavy manhole covers in wet conditions, a magnetic cover lifter might be ideal.

Evaluate the frequency of use and ease of assembly. For moving multiple covers throughout the day, a quickly assembled cart like the APS80 is highly convenient. For less frequent use, a manual lifter may suffice.

Finally, assess the types of covers you handle. For instance, the CL10 can be used in multiple configurations, enhancing safety and efficiency. Understanding these factors helps in selecting the most suitable equipment, ensuring both safety and productivity.

Summary

In summary, the right manhole lifting equipment can significantly enhance safety and efficiency in handling manhole covers. From the versatile APS80 and APS90 lifting carts to the specialised CL9 and CL11 magnetic cover lifters, each tool offers unique advantages tailored to specific needs. Understanding the key factors, such as weight capacity, ergonomic design, and the working environment, is essential in making an informed decision.

By carefully considering your specific requirements and the features of each product, you can choose the best manhole cover lifter that not only meets your operational needs but also ensures the safety and well-being of your team. Equip yourself with the right tools and experience the difference in productivity and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing a manhole cover lifter?

When choosing a manhole cover lifter, it is essential to consider the weight of the covers, ergonomic design, portability, durability, and the specific types of covers you commonly handle. Ensuring these factors align with your needs will enhance efficiency and safety during operations.

What is the best manhole cover lifter for frequent use?

The APS80 Lifting Cart is the best manhole cover lifter for frequent use, as it combines a compact design, lightweight construction, and ergonomic features. This ensures efficiency and ease of handling in demanding environments.

Which manhole cover lifter is best for heavy-duty lifting?

The APS90 Lifting Cart is the best choice for heavy-duty lifting, as it can handle loads up to 600kg, making it highly suitable for heavy manhole covers.

Are there budget-friendly options for manhole lifting equipment?

Yes, the LB8 Manual Cover Lifter Lever is a budget-friendly option, providing a straightforward and efficient solution for lifting manhole covers.

How important is the ergonomic design?

Ergonomic design in lid lifters is essential for minimising manual handling risks and reducing injury potential, ensuring the safety of both the team and the lids being removed.

What lifter should I use for Telstra pits?

We recommend the APS80 or APS90 model, as it will work as intended with the Telstra pits style of lid. Contact us today for help on getting started with a model.