Afriguide Logistics Handle 85tn Transformer
30th August 2016
The team at Afriguide Logistics (reliable PCN members in South Africa since October 2011) have recently moved a faulty transformer from its installed position at an inland substation within South Africa to Brazil for repair.
The transformer weighed in at 85.20tns with dimensions of 5.20 x 4.00 x 4.80m. As well as the transport, the scope of work included jacking and skidding from the plinth to the road trailer which was accomplished with great precision. As with all transformers of this size, great care was taken during transport and handling and it was shipped with multiple impact recorders installed to monitor the forces imparted on the cargo during its transport. In addition, the tank is pressurised with nitrogen gas and the pressure level must be monitored constantly to stay within given parameters.
The journey from the site to Durban port was particularly lengthy given the gentle pace at which this cargo has to move and full provincial police escorts were required for the entire journey. Nevertheless, the heavy-lift cargo arrived safely in Durban for loading to the export vessel along with the accessories which were packed into containers prior to the transformers arrival.
Director at Afriguide Logistics, Brad Stephens continues; "Adding to the complexity of moving such a large piece of cargo was the fact that it was to be shipped on a regular container carrier vessel to Brazil. The vessel was not sufficiently geared for the main lift and neither were the shore gantries at the terminal capable of lifting the piece so another solution was called for. The trafo was loaded at a regular breakbulk quayside in another area of the port with a 200tn floating crane and ferried to the vessel for loading from the seaward side to a specially prepared bed of flatracks and dunnage. A short time-lapse video of this lift can be seen by clicking here.
The operation ran smoothly and the cargo has subsequently been delivered to the destination in good order. We look forward to the reverse movement of the unit back to its foundation in South Africa once it has been repaired".
Please click below for photographs of the operations.
