Yes — excessive vacuum concentrates the suction force on the small surface area of the seals. With delicate ceramic or stone slabs this can cause localised stress leading to chipping or cracking. Always use the settings recommended by the manufacturer for the given material, and perform a test lift to a few centimetres before the actual transport.

A worn seal shows visible indentations, blistering or cracks at the edges. Operational signs include a lower achievable vacuum level or the pump cutting in more frequently while holding a load. We recommend replacement after every working season — or sooner if these signs appear. Genuine GECO seals are available in the UP GECO shop.

The audible alarm signals that the vacuum has dropped below the safe level. This may indicate a seal leak, contaminated contact surface or overloaded lifter. Lower the load to a safe surface immediately — do not attempt to continue transport. Then inspect the seal, surface cleanliness and battery level before resuming work.

GECO 300 PRO is controlled from the excavator cab, eliminating manual handling and physical position corrections. The main challenge is machine arm precision — the operator needs to learn slow, smooth movements and patient centring of the pads over the slab. Attachment to the machine takes about 3 minutes. Most experienced excavator operators adapt within a few hours of work.

Slabs with holes or deep relief make it harder to achieve a tight seal contact. In such cases use a smaller suction pad adapted to the smooth areas of the surface, or fit profiled seals. Always check the vacuum indicator before lifting — if the device cannot reach the required level, do not transport the slab.