In the precast concrete production process, the stripping phase represents one of the most critical moments for the integrity of the element. During separation from the casting bed and the subsequent tilting operation, the precast element is subjected to non-uniform stresses, often amplified by dynamic conditions and by geometric constraints that are not perfectly controlled.

In this context, the lifting system does not simply perform an operational function, but acts as a temporary structural component, playing a key role in stress control and in preventing localised damage.

The Torre lifting system was specifically developed to manage these phases in a controlled way, acting both on the stress transfer mechanism and on the behaviour during handling operations.

Table of contents

• System behaviour during stripping
• The role of the shackle: dissipation of dynamic stresses
• Stress distribution: the double plate–shackle coupling
• Contact control and prevention of damage
• Operational speed and continuity of the production process
• Integration into the precast production process
• Torre System: stress control and precast element quality
• Lifting systems for precast elements: integrated solutions for different operational phases

System behaviour during stripping

Stripping from a fixed casting bed involves the transition from a continuous support condition to a concentrated lifting condition. During this phase, different stresses are generated that directly influence the behaviour of the precast element and the control of stresses during handling operations.

• bending moments due to self-weight;
• concentrated stresses at lifting points;
• dynamic actions related to the start of lifting;
• suction effects caused by moulds, ribs or similar geometries.

The Torre system is designed to manage these conditions through a controlled coupling between plate and shackle, combined with an articulated device capable of adapting to the kinematic variations of the precast element.

As highlighted in the technical documentation, the system allows controlled tilting and handling operations while maintaining continuity in stress transfer even during overturning phases.

The role of the shackle: dissipation of dynamic stresses

The shackle represents the connection element between the precast unit and the lifting system. Its articulated configuration, consisting of three elements with a central joint, allows the system to adapt to changing operating conditions during lifting and tilting operations.

• adapt to inclination changes during lifting;
• absorb impacts and dynamic stresses;
• reduce stress concentrations at lifting points.

The double safety mechanism, based on the joint concept, prevents unwanted movements and ensures stability throughout all operational phases.

This adaptive capability is essential during tilting operations, where the direction of forces changes progressively and the system must maintain consistent behaviour without generating overstressing conditions.

Stress distribution: the double plate–shackle coupling

One of the most important technical features of the Torre system is the coupling principle between plate and shackle.

The plate is designed with a geometry that creates a double coupling recess, generating two contact surfaces that allow controlled stress transfer during lifting operations.

• direct stress transfer through steel;
• prevention of localised pressure on concrete;
• reduction of edge chipping during stripping operations.

As indicated in the technical documentation, this double support ensures controlled stress distribution without inducing harmful stresses in the concrete.

The result is a more stable and predictable connection behaviour, even in the presence of eccentric loads or non-symmetrical conditions.

Contact control and prevention of damage

During stripping, one of the main issues is the concentration of stresses near the lifting inserts.

In the Torre system, contact occurs between metallic components and the concrete is not directly subjected to concentrated pressure.

• contact occurs between metallic components (shackle–plate);
• the concrete is not directly subjected to concentrated pressure;
• the shackle supports contribute to re-centring the forces.

This principle makes it possible to prevent typical issues such as cover concrete chipping, localised cracking and damage to panel edges.

Contact control is therefore one of the key aspects in ensuring the quality of the precast element from the earliest handling stages.

Operational speed and continuity of the production process

In addition to structural behaviour, the Torre system directly affects the efficiency of the production cycle.

The use of the throwaway plastic box helps keep the plate cavity clean and simplifies preparation before lifting operations.

• keep the plate cavity clean;
• reduce preparation time before hooking;
• speed up stripping operations.

As highlighted in the technical documentation, simply removing the cover makes the lifting point immediately available.

This reduces manual operations and makes the process more repeatable and controlled.

Integration into the precast production process

The Torre system integrates into the production cycle of precast concrete elements, from casting operations to handling on site.

Its configuration makes it particularly suitable for applications where stress control and surface protection are especially important.

• precast panels;
• elements requiring tilting operations;
• units requiring control of exposed concrete surfaces.

The integration between design, plate installation and shackle use allows the creation of a coherent system in which every component contributes to the overall behaviour during lifting operations.

Torre System: stress control and precast element quality

In precast lifting operations, the difference between a standard system and an engineered system lies in the ability to control stresses during the most critical phases.

The Torre system acts on three fundamental aspects that directly influence operational reliability and precast element quality.

• dissipation of dynamic actions through the articulated joint;
• stress distribution through double metallic coupling;
• elimination of harmful pressure on concrete.

This approach improves operational safety, reduces the risk of damage and guarantees consistent quality of the precast element.

Lifting systems for precast elements: integrated solutions for different operational phases

The Torre system represents a specific solution for stress control during stripping and tilting operations of precast elements. Within lifting systems for precast concrete elements, however, there are also solutions developed to meet different operational requirements related to element geometry, handling methods and site conditions.

Systems such as the anchor tube, for example, are designed to ensure high versatility and safety during lifting and handling operations, adapting to different types of precast elements and operational configurations.

The analysis of the technical characteristics and behaviour of different lifting systems makes it possible to identify the most suitable solution according to specific project conditions, ensuring controlled stress transfer and high reliability throughout all handling phases.