Overview
Product Description
The TKA Edge lifter from Actech is designed to work with a standard clutch in a way that prevents the clutch from bearing on the concrete itself. This is a crucial feature to avoid concrete spalling, which is when the edges of the concrete break or chip away during the lifting process.
How the TKA Edge Lifter Works
The TKA Edge lifter and its corresponding lifting clutch are engineered to work as a system. The key to its function lies in the unique shape of the lifter’s head and the design of the lifting clutch.
Anchor Head Design: The TKA Edge lifter has a specially designed head that is meant to be the sole point of contact for the lifting clutch. When the anchor is cast into the concrete, a void former is used to create a recess around the anchor head. This recess is carefully shaped to accommodate the lifting clutch without the clutch making contact with the concrete.
Clutch Engagement: When the lifting clutch is engaged with the TKA Edge lifter, it bears directly and exclusively on the head of the anchor. The design ensures that all the lifting force is transferred from the clutch to the anchor head, and then through the anchor into the reinforced concrete element.
Preventing Spalling: By creating a gap between the clutch and the surrounding concrete, the TKA system eliminates the shear forces that would otherwise be applied to the concrete’s edge. This prevents the concrete from cracking or spalling when the element is tilted or lifted. The clutch can move freely within the void without damaging the concrete’s surface. This is particularly important for lifting thin concrete walls and panels where the edges are more susceptible to damage.
