What you probably want, and what we use around shielded and non-shielded magnets are aluminum rolling platform ladders, available from McMaster-Carr.
David Live
Senior Research Scientist
Complex Carbohydrate Research Center
University of Georgia
315 Riverbend Rd.
Athens, GA 30602
706-542-6262
________________________________
From: Knut Mehr <knutmehr_at_me.com>
Sent: Friday, June 26, 2015 4:00 PM
To: Nimmo, Susan L.
Cc: ammrl_at_ammrl.org
Subject: Re: AMMRL:platform/ladder for 600
Susan,
for stability and comfort, I found those here to be by far the best step ladder for top-of-magnet access that I have used:
https://www.littlegiantladder.com/safety-step-ladder/
They feel very stable, and provide you with comfortable, large steps so it feels much less like a ladder.
Weight limit is a bit greater, too, at 300lb, but probably not adequate for your needs (if 275lb already isn't cutting it).
There are two caveats:
- I haven't used them on an unshielded magnet, only on first-generation shielded magnets. But I don't recall that they triggered my "magnetic parts near a magnet" concerns.
- The tallest size only has 4 steps. So if you also need to accommodate very short users for He fills, it will probably not quite cut it for your old/tall magnet.
Still, for routine sample access, I'd highly recommend this model.
They do offer taller
We used to have taller aluminum "platform" ladders that dated back to when we still had unshielded magnets, but those always felt a lot more wobbly to me (and easily moved before you put your full weight on), so clearly won't address your primary concern. I also don't recall the vendor/manufacturer, unfortunately.
Curious to hear what other options are out there.
- Knut
On Jun 25, 2015, at 2:11 PM, Nimmo, Susan L. <susana_at_ou.edu<mailto:susana_at_ou.edu>> wrote:
Everyone:
I have an unshielded 600 NMR (not in a pit). I am using a regular aluminum ladder for filling and sample insertion. However, this ladder has a 275 weight limit and I have some users who exceed this weight limit. Additionally, I would like a more stable platform for helium fills. I'm getting a little bit (just a little bit!) older and I am starting to get a little goosey on the 600 ladder. Does anyone have any suggestions on a better situation and perhaps a vendor?
Thanks!
Susan L. Nimmo, Ph.D.
NMR Facility Mananger
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
University of Oklahoma
101 Stephenson Parkway, Room 1700
Norman, Oklahoma 73019
Cell phone: 405-627-7044
Office: 405-325-0677
Received on Mon Jun 29 2015 - 12:34:12 MST