Jasper Floats Diesel Engines on a Cushion of Air

As the Diesel Division renovation project progresses at Jasper Engines & Transmissions Assoc. have found an easier way to transport diesel engines from one assembly station to another.

Associates are using a Jasper-Designed floating work station that utilizes compressed air to move a hydraulic lift table, and a diesel engine, from station to station in final assembly. These work stations float atop the concrete floor, much like a hovercraft.

“A hydraulic lift table weighs approximately 300 pounds, and a fully-assembled diesel engine can weigh in excess of 1,500 pounds,” said Ryan Dooley, Jasper diesel division manager. “Using roller conveyors to push that much weight from station to station simply wasn’t an option.”

The Jasper-Designed work stations use four pneumatic air cylinders mounted underneath the lift table. A handle is installed to aid in maneuverability. The Associate applies 30 psi to lift the cart off the floor, thereby moving the lift table, and the diesel engine, to the next assembly station.

“All you have to do is add air, and any Associate can move the engine from station to station,” said Dooley. “The floating work stations are a great alternative, and have worked out well for us.”