The Challenge:
Before installing the Gorbel free standing work station crane system, the automotive recycling operations at Wilbert's Inc. in Western New York relied on towmotors (forklifts). This reliance limited their operations. Employees had to maneuver around the towmotors to lift engines from salvage vehicles, which caused significant space constraints. The facility could not accommodate more than one or two towmotors in the workspace at a time. This constraint created a bottleneck that restricted daily output and efficiency.
The Solution:
To address these productivity bottlenecks, the management team at Wilbert's Inc. researched the overhead crane industry. They selected Gorbel free standing work station cranes. The team chose this system for its flexibility, modularity, and ability to meet precise space requirements. A key factor in the decision was the ability to accommodate a dual bridge crane system. This setup allowed workers to lift pickup truck cabs while simultaneously pulling engines. Previous equipment could not perform this operation safely or efficiently.
The Execution:
The company integrated the new system across five assembly bays, which changed the workflow of the facility. Operators utilize the fingertip controls of the overhead crane to lift and position engines and transmissions easily. The dual bridge setup allows the team to lift a truck cab entirely off the chassis. This clears the area so workers can safely pull the engine beneath it. Replacing ground-level forklifts with an overhead system reduced physical clutter and the need for maneuvering. Workers now operate in a safer, more open environment.
The Result:
Since the installation, Wilbert's Inc. has seen an increase in productivity and a reduction in overhead costs on a per-car basis. Beyond the financial gains, the implementation established a safer working environment for employees. Owner Richard Wilbert stated that the "efficiencies gained have been tremendous." He added that the ability to handle complex lifts provides a daily benefit to the operation.