GOLDHOFER has developed a brand new vessel bridge system, becoming the only manufacturer to offer a technique to accommodate the eccentric centre of gravity of nacelles, according to a spokesman for the German company.

The global supplier of truck semi-trailers, heavy-duty transport systems and aircraft tractors, developed the innovative system in collaboration with Vestas Wind Systems engineers – a leader in manufacturing wind power plants – and Danish haulage specialist Torben Rafn and Company. It has been designed to enable easy and efficient transportation of the new 2-MW Nacelle Mk6 and Mk7 by Vestas Wind Systems.

“This once again sets the Bavarian specialists apart from the competition,” says Stefan Fuchs, CEO of Goldhofer. “The innovative system ensures that the nacelles will arrive absolutely safely at their destination. The Goldhofer system achieves even axle loads and results in neutral driveability, even rough terrain.”

The vessel bridge system was also designed for extremely tight conditions. The nacelle is straightforward to load thanks to a side-mounted attachment and fastening of the longitudinal beams. The advantage – set-up times are reduced and it is not necessary to use a crane.

In addition, the Goldhofer bridge can also be used for other transport purposes, enabling rapid amortisation on the investment.

“The bridge scores highly in terms of flexibility and economical operation. For example, payloads of up to 95 tonnes can be realised in combination with a 10-axle heavy-duty module. That offers considerable options in terms of transportation,” says Fuchs.