Doerfer Companies

Wheelift Systems is a subsidiary of the Doerfers Companies, a leading group of factory automation firms, headquartered in Waverly, IA, USA. The Wheelift group manufactures very heavy capacity (80T to 500T) multi-axle self-propelled transporters designed specifically for IN-PLANT use. Solid urethane tires, all-electric all-wheel drives. Low deck heights of 480 to 580 mm (depending on capacity) with 150 to 250 mm lift for self-loading "lift and carry" operations. Fluid suspension, on center rotating axle assemblies provide fully omni-directional travel. Fully operational on severely deteriorated factory floors.
Transporters can be operator driven (walking or riding) and fully automatic guided travel. Ideally designed for very heavy product assembly in plants that could otherwise only build their products in place, but can now build in moving assembly station sequencing. Typically used with products sitting on 500 mm high pedestals for drive-under, lift-and-carry, functionality. Ideally suited for heavy turbine generator and transformer assembly operations, as well as use in the bottom of dry-docks to posistion heavy ship section in shipyard applications. Automated heavy plate and hull section assembly too, is and ideal application for the unlimited carrying capacity, automatic travel vehicles. Transporters can operate singularly, or as currently up to four 200T transporters operating in tandem to carry a single load, controlled from one operator station.
To get an accurate grasp of this new in-plant assembly system, visit the Wheelift website at WWW. Heavyagv. Com. There you will see and in-depth description of capabilities, as well as extensive photo galleries and video clips.
To obtain custom system design responses contact the Sr. Systems Designer, Mel Terry