Three new wonder carpet conveyors as return-lift systems installed at Hinterstoder
Sunkid conveyor belts for perfect LOGISTICS and optimal CUSTOMER SERVICE in the skiing area
Up until now, ski guests at Hinterstoder had to cap off a wonderful day of skiing by walking the last meters up to the 6-place Hössbahn cable car. It was difficult for children, especially after a strenuous ski class, to make up the 30 meter height difference on foot. After an intense search for the optimal solution that would satisfy comfort and capacity requirements, the Hinterstoder Cable Car Company finally had success. They selected a Sunkid wonder carpet conveyor as return-lift system to help skiers reach their destination.
The conveyor belt as return-lift system consists of three Sunkid wonder carpets arranged in succession. The first part of the system is comprised of an 84 meter-long conveyor belt with an average gradient of 14%. This is followed by two more conveyor belts that are 54 meters and 30 meters in length respectively, both with an average gradient of 19%. Powered by 7.5 KW and 5.5 KW motors, the Sunkid wonder carpets have a capacity of up to 1,400 skiers or 2,000 walkers per hour.
For the conveyor belt surface, ‘Hinterstoder’ Cable Car Company selected the “Blue Eye” conveyor belt, designed by Sunkid. Although the conveyor belt is made of heavy-duty natural rubber, it also has sufficient give to provide excellent traction. The “Blue Eye” conveyor belt is manufactured in-house by Sunkid production.
2009-02-15
Sunkid side-exits increase operational reliability!
“Radius” side-exits
Sunkid’s patented “Radius” side-exits are installed on all three wonder carpets which function as lifts and also access and return routes. This exit configuration gives the ski guest the option of traveling away from the conveyor toward the right or toward the left. To accommodate this, the last mid-section of the Sunkid conveyor belt has a curved “radius” shape. At the highest point of the belt, the skis make only partial contact, making it easy to turn. In addition, exit rails have been installed for the passenger to hold on to while turning.
The key reason for investing in the Sunkid “Radius” side-exits was the minimization of conveyor interruptions, one of Sunkid construction’s unique features. In the exit area, the cut-off switch and the photoelectric barrier have been replaced with a safety-gate. This has greatly increased operational reliability!
The initial experiences this winter have been very positive. Visitors are taking advantage of this easy and comfortable alternative to reach the 6-place Hössbahn cable car. Because of this innovative logistics solution from Sunkid, skiers at Hinterstoder can end their day as they should – totally relaxed!