The handling of oversized glazing units, heavy façade panels and other construction materials requires lifting equipment capable of combining load capacity, controlled movement and precise positioning. Danish manufacturer Smartlift addresses these requirements through a portfolio of 12 electric lifting machines, ranging from compact indoor glazing robots to high-capacity outdoor lifters and specialised material-handling equipment.
The range covers lifting capacities from 200 kg to 1,300 kg, although the latter belongs to the ST 1300 transport trolley rather than the vacuum-lifter category. The machines are designed for handling glass, windows, stone, marble, granite, metal sheets and other materials with suitable surfaces for vacuum attachment.
Indoor glazing robots
Three dedicated indoor models address installation conditions where access dimensions and manoeuvrability are critical.
The SL 208 Indoor has a maximum lifting capacity of 200 kg and a lifting height of 265 cm. Its overall length of 167 cm allows it to enter construction-site hoists. Joystick control enables multidirectional movement and rotation around the machine’s own axis. 
The SL 280 Indoor handles loads of up to 280 kg, with a maximum lifting height of 275 cm. Rear-wheel drive supports manoeuvrability, while ±10 cm lateral load displacement facilitates alignment in confined spaces.
The SL 380 Indoor increases capacity to 380 kg and provides a lifting height of 265 cm. Its narrow chassis and ±10 cm lateral displacement support the positioning of heavier glazing units in restricted installation areas.
For higher-capacity indoor applications, the SL 509 Indoor is available in configurations rated between 500 and 580 kg. It reaches 335 cm and features rear-wheel drive and remote control, allowing the operator to manage lifting and positioning from a suitable viewing position.
Outdoor models and extended lifting reach
The outdoor series is designed for handling larger elements and installation work requiring greater lifting heights.
The SL 309 Outdoor lifts up to 350 kg and reaches 307 cm. Its compact dimensions, 143.5 cm length and 90 cm turning radius, support operation on sites with restricted access.
The SL 409 Outdoor provides a maximum capacity of 430 kg and a lifting height of 310 cm. Its reinforced construction is intended for handling glass, windows, granite, marble and steel.
With a capacity of 600 kg, the SL 609 Outdoor reaches 415 cm. The High Lifter Electric configuration includes a rotating yoke, memory functions for repeated installation positions and an IoT device for tracking, theft protection and remote diagnostics.
The SL 809 Outdoor extends the lifting height to 600 cm, with an 800 kg capacity. Its hydraulic system, extended boom and remote-controlled rotating yoke are intended for installations at elevated positions.
At the upper end of the vacuum-lifter range, the SL 1009 Outdoor handles up to 1,000 kg and reaches 465 cm. Its proportional hydraulic system enables controlled adjustment of the boom and lifting yoke. A wireless remote control and integrated display provide information on battery status, vacuum level and actual load strain.
Specialised lifting equipment
Beyond conventional glazing robots, Smartlift offers three machines for complementary construction applications.
The ST 1300 Trolley is a self-propelled transport solution with a 1,300 kg capacity and an electrically operated lifting mechanism reaching 86 cm. It is intended primarily for plasterboards and other building materials.
The SL 400 RT Skylifter is a radio-controlled vacuum manipulator mounted on compatible telescopic handlers using a dedicated pallet-fork adapter. Its 400 kg capacity and 350-degree rotation support installation at elevated and difficult-to-access positions.
The SLX 2000 is a multifunctional lifting platform with a maximum stated capacity of 1,000 kg, depending on the selected attachment. Available tools include a vacuum yoke, hydraulic winch, fly-jib, pallet forks and lifting hook. Its maximum lifting height is 5.85 m.
Vacuum technology and operational safety
Across the portfolio, electric drive eliminates exhaust emissions during operation. Vacuum attachment provides controlled handling of suitable smooth-surface materials, while the manufacturer identifies dual vacuum circuits, emergency stops and vacuum-loss alarms among its safety provisions.
The technical distinction between the models lies primarily in their operating environment, lifting geometry, load capacity and positioning functions. This allows glazing contractors and façade installers to select equipment according to element dimensions, installation height, site accessibility and handling requirements rather than relying on lifting capacity alone.
Source: Glass Balkan
