Case Study #153: Tire Assemblies

Problem: The tire assembly needs to be orientated so that the hub centerline is parallel to the centerline of the axle. There is a close fit between the hub ID and axle OD. The tire assembly must be rotated to align the hub key with the axle keyway. Thus, the tire assembly is lifted, pitched, swiveled and rotated during installation onto the axle. An overhead hoist with a sling or C-frame lifting device was used for lifting; however, this method lacked control and safety.

Application: Install front and rear tire assemblies (tire, rim with hub & wheel weight) onto the axles of farm tractors and harvesters. Various tire sizes from 36″ to 94″ diameter and 18″ to 49.5″ width and up to 6,000 lbs.

Solution: Taurus® (TPA-15) and Special Vertical Lift Cylinder. Fixed floor pedestal, fixed overhead mounting, and powered overhead trolley and crane system. Custom designed hydraulic powered end- effector to lift, pitch and rotate various tire assemblies.