Air cushion does the job
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USING two purpose-designed pedestrian-controlled Airfloat transporters, specialist vehicle body builder Wilsdon has solved an acute problem of tight manoeuvring of heavy loads in its paint shop.
Fume hazards from running engines are eliminated, and valuable floor space previously required for shunting has been released to provide an extended masking and preparation area.
The Airfloat system manufactured by Airfloat Systems of Sheldon, Birmingham, operates from a normal factory airline supply and can handle vehicles up to six tonnes. When the vehicle is driven onto the transporters, locked into position and the engine switched off, two pedestrian operators are able to move the load in any horizontal plane, to place it precisely where required.
The transporters measuring 2.5m x 1.3m (8ft 2.5in x4ft 2.5in) are fabricated from steel incorporating four sets of 355mm (14in) air bearings to each unit.
Fixed flow orifices ensure a balanced air delivery to each bearing for good stability and a high degree of floor protection.
Airfloat transporters, suitable for operation over B.S machine trowelled floor or their equivalent, including lowioad floors, can be purpose-designed for applications throughout industry.