Goldhofer

Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft

• Donaustraße 95
  87700 Memmingen
  Germany

• +49 8331 15-0
• info@goldhofer.com
• www.goldhofer.com

Contents:

Scroll down to:

1. The Goldhofer Group
2. Video – We are Goldhofer – Transport Techology
3. Goldhofer Transport Technology
4. Goldhofer Airport Technology
5. Goldhofer’s Latest News

1. The Goldhofer Group

The Goldhofer Group has a history that reaches all the way back to 1705. Over the years, what started as a small forge has grown into a global operation with around 800 employees. In addition to its headquarters in Memmingen, Goldhofer has continuously strengthened its market leadership as a recognized global player and reliable local partner with the addition of subsidiaries and facilities in Germany, India, the UK, Ukraine, USA and the United Arab Emirates.

The Group has a focus on sustainability and continuous innovation in all aspects of its operations. This applies both to internal company processes and in particular to the benefits for customers. That is achieved through Goldhofer’s commitment to certification, its environmental and energy management systems (DIN EN ISO 14001, DIN EN ISO 50001) and its Integrated Management System as key tools in the continuous optimization of the Group’s products and services.

Goldhofer combines a high and consistent standard of quality for its transport solutions with maximum proximity to customers. With its growing global sales, service and production network, the company guarantees the rapid availability of new vehicles, vehicle parts and servicing at the local level. Direct collaboration with customers in a spirit of partnership is a fertile ground for research and development activities, which in turn generate further innovations. Through a continuous process of analysis of the various industries and their needs, Goldhofer is able to create efficient, robust and innovative products and services.

Never far away

The Group’s intelligent and forward-looking after-sales program and international service network is available for all Goldhofer vehicles, whether new or pre-owned. It includes a fast parts supply system, vehicle servicing and maintenance, and even complete overhauls. From the day they take delivery of their vehicles, users can rely on Goldhofer’s team of fully qualified personnel to provide advice and support – in the form of on-site assistance, vehicle training sessions, servicing workshops or a 24/7 service hotline. The Group also offers rental and lease purchase options. Further added value is provided in the form of additional software tools like the »LINK« telemetry system. Among other things, they support condition assessment for successful fleet management.

The Goldhofer Company in Memmingen

2.  Video We are Goldhofer – Transport Technology

3.  Goldhofer Transport Technology

Transport professionals worldwide place their trust in Goldhofer, in the competence and quality standards of the world market leader for heavy and specialized transport vehicles. The Transport Technology division develops user-oriented transport solutions plus a full range of accessories, whose excellent quality reflects the technological expertise built up by a company with a more than 300-year history. A team of highly skilled engineers, working to tried and tested standards, develop and produce efficient configurations based on customer requirements, which not only do full justice to the needs of international logistics markets and infrastructures; time and time again Goldhofer’s advanced solutions have revolutionized the transport industry with innovative product and service concepts – for both on- and off-road operations. The wide product range includes trailers, semi-trailers, heavy-duty modules and special vehicles. Customers from multiple industries – construction, mining, energy, port and shipyard logistics, mechanical and plant engineering, and petrochemicals – can be sure of finding not only the right transport solutions for their needs but also added value in terms of individual options to facilitate operations. This relates to such aspects as load securing, transport project planning, software support for axle-load, stability and bend analysis, as well as innovative sensor technology and data analysis software. Goldhofer – a partner for all transport requirements.

A close dialog with users is one of the driving forces at Goldhofer for continuous further development over the full product range at the technological, process-related and regional levels, always targeted at the practical needs of the transport and logistics industry. The result: consistently user-oriented vehicles that are capable of carrying cargos large and small and in all payload classes to their destinations – safely, reliably and economically.

Goldhofer’s transport vehicle portfolio covers a payload range from approx. 30 to 15,000 tons and includes the following products:

• Towed trailers with 3-5 axles.     Payloads range from 30 to 50 tons, depending on the relevant national regulations. These trailers are particularly popular with small and medium-sized companies.

• Low loader semitrailers with 3-12 axles.    This is the company’s most diverse product line. It includes semitrailers, semitrailers with drop  decks and combination vehicles. Apart from the various decks, Goldhofer also offers a range of axle systems, including its patented »MPA« axle technology and its proven pendular axle technology. With the latest additions to its portfolio, namely »STEPSTAR«, »ARCUS» and the »FT SERIES«, Goldhofer has provided further evidence of its powers of innovation and at the same time enlarged its product range at both ends of the scale.

STEPSTAR

MPA Type Semitrailer

Flatbed Semitrailers

Lowloader Trailers

ARCUS

• Heavy-duty modules   These heavy-duty modular trailers are designed to move especially heavy and bulky loads. They offer great flexibility in the way of end-to-end or side-by-side configurations and can be used to carry payloads of up to 15,000 t. For optimum performance, these heavy-duty vehicles are also available with hydrostatic drive and electronic multiway steering. They come with an almost unlimited choice of accessories, from simple turntables to high girder bridges like the FAKTOR 5.

Heavy-duty modules (towed)

ADDRIVE

Highway Semitrailer Goldhofer P12 PLUS for the North American Market

FAKTOR 5

• Transport solutions for wind power plants
  Goldhofer also offers a range of equipment for the cost-effective transportation of components for wind power plants such as the FTV blade lifter or the »BLADES« trailing dolly.

BLADE S

FTV

Tower adapters

4.  Goldhofer Airport Technology

In its Airport Technology division, the Goldhofer Group has bundled competencies deriving from more than 60 years devoted to the development and manufacture of special vehicles for airport logistics. A highly qualified workforce develops, produces and markets an extensive product and service portfolio to an uncompromising standard of quality. The bandwidth of transport solutions for apron operations comprises the following:

• Cargo/pushback tractors
  For baggage and cargo handling, airport operators worldwide rely on the »SHERPA« family of tow tractors. These diesel-powered or battery-powered tractors can tow loads of up to 80 tons and make light work of pushbacks for business jets with an MTOW (maximum take-off weight) of up to 50 t. This versatile product family, with its choice of drives, performance classes and cabin variants, ensures maximum safety and operator convenience. With a worry-free offering that includes a standardized operating system and modular vehicle concept, the »SHERPA« stands for safe, flexible and cost-effective day-to-day working in the hectic airport environment. The unique »LINK« telemetry system is an additional invaluable tool for maximum efficiency in terms of operations and maintenance.
• Conventional aircraft tow tractors
  With its conventional tow tractors, primarily from the »BISON« family, Goldhofer offers a generation of modular vehicles in both diesel- and battery-powered versions incorporating Goldhofer’s unique »IonMaster« technology. Minimum maintenance requirements and maximum operational efficiency are the keys to a low TCO. Depending on the model and performance rating, these tractors can handle a full range of aircraft up to 600 t MTOW.
• Towbarless aircraft tow tractors
  With just two models, Goldhofer’s towbarless tow tractors can cover the entire range of aircraft up to 600 t MTOW, whether for long maintenance tows or simple pushbacks. The »PHOENIX« is the only tow tractor in the world that is compatible with over 70% of all types of passenger and cargo aircraft in service worldwide. Even with low loads, the hydrostatic drive provides maximum traction and offers the highest level of safety for handling aircraft up to 352 t MTOW. With the »PHOENIX« E, the Goldhofer portfolio also includes a corresponding battery-powered variant with a modular battery concept and a capacity of 66-165 kWh. With Goldhofer’s »IonMaster« technology and the »LINK« telemetry system, the result is unbeatable efficiency.
• Aircraft recovery systems
  At busy single-runway airports in particular, a fast and efficient response in emergencies is essential to keep runway closures as short as possible. Goldhofer’s recovery dollies and systems ensure that airports are able to quickly restore normal operations.

Phoenix E

Conventional Tractor Bison E

Sherpa E Cargo Tractor

In addition to its innovative products, Goldhofer offers professional consulting services and an intelligent service portfolio consisting of a full range of services and training courses. With its e-Shop and the Goldhofer Academy, Goldhofer no longer offers these services in conventional formats alone but also in the form of convenient digital solutions. The new »LINK« IoT platform supports a wide range of telemetry functions, including monitoring und condition-based maintenance. It is the key to maximum efficiency in terms of fleet management and maintenance for preventive action before a fault can develop. In close cooperation with customers, the Goldhofer team provides support throughout their projects. They are all targeted at the same outcome: value-oriented, innovative and efficient solutions for the airport apron. The focus is on individual customer configurations, concepts and solutions based on specific operational data.

Goldhofer is also a solution provider for ground handling with zero emissions thanks to its »IonMaster« technology, a highly efficient 400/700 V lithium-ion technology. »IonMaster« is based on tried and tested technology from the commercial vehicle and automobile manufacturing industries. With its fast charging capability and active thermal management, the system is significantly superior to conventional e-mobility solutions in terms of performance and service life.
Goldhofer’s »IonMaster« is the answer to the growing demand for forward-looking, zero-emission drive solutions.

5.  Latest News

Earlier news items concerning Goldhofer can found by typing Goldhofer in the search engine on the top right hand corner of the www.heavyliftnews.com  home page.

11 March 2924  :

https://www.heavyliftnews.com/oxbo-transport-250-ton-buoy-on-22-lines-of-goldhofer-pst-sle/

5 March 2924  :

29 February 2024   :

21 Dec 2023 ea.R Energieanlagen Ramonat GmbH Collect Second Goldhofer Cable Drum Bridge

The second Goldhofer cable drum bridge for large cable drum transportation was picked up yesterday at Goldhofer Transport Technology headquarters.

The cable drum is transported on a special vessel deck in a Goldhofer heavy-duty (4+6) or (5+7) module combination. The solution developed has two particular advantages: Easily mounted hydraulic support legs allow the bridge to be raised to loading area height under full load so that the module combination can be moved under it. This significantly reduces overall length for the last mile for increased maneuverability on all types of construction sites, especially in combination with self-propelled modules.

Awarded as “Innovator of the year 2023”, this unique Goldhofer solution allows cable drums weighing up to 100t to be transported with unbeatable manoeuvrability. Even unreeling of the drums can be performed while loaded. Now being produced in series, Goldhofer are looking forward to seeing many more on the road. Goldhofer wish ea.R Energieanlagen Ramonat GmbH all the best and are look forward to seeing the bridges in action!

8 Jun 2023 – Pesado Transports Locomotive Across Mexico on Goldhofer Trailer

For the new Tren Maya railway, the 12-axle THP/SL heavy-duty combination company was commissioned to transport a diesel- electric locomotive weighing approx. 180t over a distance of 2,250km, from San Luis Potosi to Valladolid, Yucatan.

Whenever reliable transportation and punctual delivery of the heaviest loads are called for in Mexico, the PESADO Transport company is always a logical choice. The experts at PESADO, which was formed in 2012 from the construction company ESEASA Construcciones, have long years of experience in transporting heavy and oversized loads – especially under challenging conditions.

For a showcase project like Mexico’s Tren Maya, it was all the more important to ensure a smooth operation with the EMD GP-38-2 diesel-electric locomotive, which is 18m long and 4.7m high and weighs around 180t. Tren Maya is a major infrastructure project involving the construction of a 1,500km railway line linking Mexico’s tourism destinations and Maya sites.

The 69m long rig took tight bends in style.

For the operation, PESADO chose a Goldhofer 12-axle THP/SL heavy-duty combination with a drop deck designed for a payload of up to 300t. The drop deck was necessary because of the locomotive’s 4,7m overall height. Thanks to the drop deck, it was possible to reach Valladolid, 2,250km away, on a more or less direct route and mainly using federal highways. The departure from the loading yard was the first test of the PESADO team’s capabilities with the 69m long combination. But with a 55° steering angle and +/-300mm hydraulic axle stroke, no serious problems were caused by the tight spots on the route including roundabouts and junctions. “It was a challenging journey through tourist areas with narrow roads and tight radii, but the precision steering available with Goldhofer’s THP/SL modules makes safe and accurate maneuvering possible even under such conditions,” says Ramiro Muñoz Martinez, Specialized Transportation Engineer from Heavy Transport.

Fast progress was made with the 12-axle THP/SL heavy-duty combination on Mexico’s highways.

The 69m long combination was powered, sometimes in the push-pull mode, by two 515 hp Western Star 6900XD heavy-duty tractors. The 335t rig, with an overall width of 3.3m and a total height of 5.06m, reached its destination in Valladolid, Yucatan in 14 days.

25 May 2023 – Prangl GmbH Transports Stranded Rolling Stock on Goldhofer FT Series Modules – Video

The old railway bridge over the River Danube in Linz, Austria,  was dismantled in 2016 and replaced with a new road bridge, which was opened in 2021 without any rail access. As a result, locomotives and rolling stock have to be transported across the Danube on the A7 autobahn bridge on heavy haulage road vehicles. This proved to be no problem for the experts at Prangl GmbH, while Goldhofer’s new rail vehicle transporter combination showed just what it is capable of on the narrow inner-city roads.

In April 2023, a track geometry inspection car of the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) weighing a total of almost 50t had to be moved from the shunting yard at Stadthafen Linz across the Danube to the Urfahr railway station in the centre of Linz. For periodic inspection work on the track, which is part of an island rail operation, the experienced heavy-haul experts of Prangl GmbH were commissioned to transport the car. With its new pivot-mounted FT SERIES 2+4 combination with a rail vehicle deck, the entire 47m long rig weighing a total of 135t was manoeuvred through the city centre at night without any problems. Furthermore, Prangl was able to significantly reduce its capital outlay because, despite the new bogies, it was possible to use a loading deck from the company’s existing fleet – thanks to the universal combination options of Goldhofer’s FT SERIES.

The ÖBB inspection car with its track geometry measuring and recording equipment was unloaded in Urfahr the following day and driven along the approx. 100km section of track before returning in the afternoon for reloading onto the semitrailer combination. “An impressive suspension stroke of 640mm makes loading much easier – especially with the high pre-tension in the loading deck and the need to uncouple the front bogie,” says Roland Walzl, heavy haul and special transport driver at Prangl.

The return trip to the shunting yard, again at night, began with a challenge: Because of the extremely limited space available, the combination had to be reversed over a distance of about 300m to a junction where it could turn around. Thanks to an extra wide steering angle of ± 60°, that was no problem at all for the Prangl team.

From there, the journey continued through the city centre, where the new FT SERIES heavy-duty modules once again proved their worth. Having been perfectly configured for use in confined spaces during the ordering process, including a low loading height achieved with the help of 205 tyres, the combination, with a total height of 4.6m, the new FT SERIES heavy-duty modules was able to pass under the  inner-city overhead lines and traffic lights and various road signs.

The final act was an approx. 5km section of wrong way driving on the closed Austrian A7 to the shunting yard at Stadthafen Linz. “With the new heavy-duty modules in the FT SERIES we can respond flexibly to any challenge, be it manoeuvring in confined spaces or the need for different module combinations.

With the FT SERIES we can quickly adapt to requirements,” says Jochen Schmidt, Head of the Heavy Haul and Special Transport Department at Prangl. “For us, the big advantage of the FT SERIES is that changes to the transport system can be made without any problems at any time. In addition, it also supports combinations with vehicles and loading decks from our existing fleet. This means that we are ideally equipped for the future and are looking forward to the transport operations that lie ahead.”

Video

15 May 2023 – SC&RA Awards Goldhofer their Presidents Award

Jerry Rothwell (left) takes over his Award from Ed Bernard

Goldhofer received the President’s Award from the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association. SC&RA is an international organization comprised of more than 1,350 members from 46 nations.

The SC&RA President’s Award is presented to a company whose employees have collectively recruited the most companies to join the Association during the previous calendar year.

Goldhofer delivers strictly user-oriented heavy-haulage solutions and a full range of dedicated accessories for on- and off-road operations with payloads of 15,000 tons and more. Many firms across the United States and around the world rely on Goldhofer’s transport technology and submit hundreds of entries to the SC&RA Awards competition each year. The Awards program recognizes worldwide excellence in the crane, rigging and specialized transportation industry.“Goldhofer is proud of being a member of the SC&RA community for 51 years. We highly value the lively exchange of interests and the strong community of this membership.”, explains Jerry Rothwell, Director of Sales North America.

Source Goldhofer North America

1 May 2023 – Schmidbauer GmbH Continues with Goldhofer for Transporting Heavy Loads

With last week’s collection, Schmidbauer GmbH & Co. KG continues its long-standing partnership with GOLDHOFER!

A total of 32 axle lines of Goldhofer THP/SL-L heavy-duty modules have been added to their fleet.

The ideal mix between dead weight and bending moment, the low loading height as well as the various combination options with goosenecks, drawbars, loading bridges and other components, also from the existing fleet, make the THP/SL-L heavy-duty modules the optimal partner for road transport of particularly heavy loads.

28 Apr 2023 – Mammoet and Goldhofer Overcome the Challenges En Route from Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan

Mammoet completed the transported of power plant items to from Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan over a challenging route with steep gradients, tight curves and weak bridges. The transport was mastered with ease  with their Goldhofer THP/SL heavy duty modules.

Hilly terrain, tight curves, narrow roads, and bridges with limited load-bearing capacity – the three 2,200km journeys with gas turbines weighing up to 517t from the Kazakh port of Bautino to the Sirdarya CCGT plant in Shirin (Uzbekistan) were a special challenge for the heavy-haul specialist Mammoet.

In view of the very varied topography, the route was divided into three sections, each of them requiring a specially tailored solution to get the cargo to its destination quickly and safely. Mammoet Kazakhstan found the ideal solution in its versatile, robust and reliable THP/SL heavy-duty modules from Goldhofer. In combination with two Goldhofer ADDRIVE modules, plus ADDRONIC for the synchronization, more than 68 axle lines were in use at peak times.

With its steep curves, narrow unsurfaced roads, and bridges with limited load bearing capacity, the second section through Uzbekistan posed further challenges for the Mammoet team. In order to be able to negotiate the curves and also achieve optimum weight distribution on the bridges, the up to 15m long and 6.3m wide gas turbines weighing approx. 517t each were transloaded onto Mammoet’s high girder frame AL600, then mounted front and rear on a 20-axle THP/SL P(1+1/2) combination with ADDRIVE. The Mammoet specialists used Goldhofer’s ADDRONIC to synchronize the ADDRIVE modules. This enabled the two ADDRIVE units to be fully integrated in the combination for additional traction and pushing power on steep inclines. The full power was available at a click of a single button to bring the convoy to top speeds of up to 18 km/h.

The heavy-duty self-propelled modules ADDRIVE  can support  speeds of up to 25 km/h. Such a combination ensured both enough tractive power to carry the ultra-heavy loads up the hills and the braking power needed for safe travel on the downhill sections. At higher speeds, the ADDRIVE modules switches off automatically and then switches back on again when the speed fell below 25 km/h.

The main obstacle for the 100m long and 900t heavy convoy on this section of the route was the many bridges whose load-bearing capacity was far too low for such a combination. The 60 axle lines of the THP/SL heavy-duty modules alone were insufficient to meet the maximum axle load requirements.

In order to observe the limits on the individual bridges, the heavy-haul experts at Mammoet employed a strategy that they had already used many times before. They positioned an 8-axle Goldhofer modular vehicle, known as a belly trailer, directly under the high girder bridge to let it take a share of the heavy load directly.

“The 8 axles under the high girder bridge had to be steered separately front and rear. Continuous monitoring and adjustment of suspension on the belly trailer enabled us to pass over each of the bridges safely and reliably at walking pace,” says Marek Lysko, Operations Manager at Mammoet Kazakhstan.

On the last section of the journey, Mammoet loaded the turbines on a heavy-duty self-propelled combination, which covered the last kilometers to the power plant.

As with numerous previous projects, Mammoet’s experts were again convinced by the high quality and versatility of Goldhofer’s vehicle solutions: “We were able to plan and implement the whole operation with such precision because Goldhofer’s heavy-duty modules can be combined with extreme flexibility and configured to meet very specific requirements. Continuous support from Goldhofer project and service departments helped us to plan and execute the project with the highest level of engineering, safety and performance.” says Marek Lysko.

“This project reinforced our reputation as a trusted heavy-transport logistics partner to Central Asian market. Concentrated power of will of the team, skills of engineers, reliability of personnel made sketches and drawings come to reality”, says Ali Yoldashov, Mammoet’s Regional Manager – Caspian.

28 Apr 2023  – Mammoet and Goldhofer Overcome the Challenges En Route from Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan

Mammoet completed the transported of power plant items to from Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan over a challenging route with steep gradients, tight curves and weak bridges. The transport was mastered with ease  with their Goldhofer THP/SL heavy duty modules.

Hilly terrain, tight curves, narrow roads, and bridges with limited load-bearing capacity – the three 2,200km journeys with gas turbines weighing up to 517t from the Kazakh port of Bautino to the Sirdarya CCGT plant in Shirin (Uzbekistan) were a special challenge for the heavy-haul specialist Mammoet.

In view of the very varied topography, the route was divided into three sections, each of them requiring a specially tailored solution to get the cargo to its destination quickly and safely. Mammoet Kazakhstan found the ideal solution in its versatile, robust and reliable THP/SL heavy-duty modules from Goldhofer. In combination with two Goldhofer ADDRIVE modules, plus ADDRONIC for the synchronization, more than 68 axle lines were in use at peak times.

With its steep curves, narrow unsurfaced roads, and bridges with limited load bearing capacity, the second section through Uzbekistan posed further challenges for the Mammoet team. In order to be able to negotiate the curves and also achieve optimum weight distribution on the bridges, the up to 15m long and 6.3m wide gas turbines weighing approx. 517t each were transloaded onto Mammoet’s high girder frame AL600, then mounted front and rear on a 20-axle THP/SL P(1+1/2) combination with ADDRIVE. The Mammoet specialists used Goldhofer’s ADDRONIC to synchronize the ADDRIVE modules. This enabled the two ADDRIVE units to be fully integrated in the combination for additional traction and pushing power on steep inclines. The full power was available at a click of a single button to bring the convoy to top speeds of up to 18 km/h.

The heavy-duty self-propelled modules ADDRIVE  can support  speeds of up to 25 km/h. Such a combination ensured both enough tractive power to carry the ultra-heavy loads up the hills and the braking power needed for safe travel on the downhill sections. At higher speeds, the ADDRIVE modules switches off automatically and then switches back on again when the speed fell below 25 km/h.

The main obstacle for the 100m long and 900t heavy convoy on this section of the route was the many bridges whose load-bearing capacity was far too low for such a combination. The 60 axle lines of the THP/SL heavy-duty modules alone were insufficient to meet the maximum axle load requirements.

In order to observe the limits on the individual bridges, the heavy-haul experts at Mammoet employed a strategy that they had already used many times before. They positioned an 8-axle Goldhofer modular vehicle, known as a belly trailer, directly under the high girder bridge to let it take a share of the heavy load directly.

“The 8 axles under the high girder bridge had to be steered separately front and rear. Continuous monitoring and adjustment of suspension on the belly trailer enabled us to pass over each of the bridges safely and reliably at walking pace,” says Marek Lysko, Operations Manager at Mammoet Kazakhstan.

On the last section of the journey, Mammoet loaded the turbines on a heavy-duty self-propelled combination, which covered the last kilometers to the power plant.

As with numerous previous projects, Mammoet’s experts were again convinced by the high quality and versatility of Goldhofer’s vehicle solutions: “We were able to plan and implement the whole operation with such precision because Goldhofer’s heavy-duty modules can be combined with extreme flexibility and configured to meet very specific requirements. Continuous support from Goldhofer project and service departments helped us to plan and execute the project with the highest level of engineering, safety and performance.” says Marek Lysko.

“This project reinforced our reputation as a trusted heavy-transport logistics partner to Central Asian market. Concentrated power of will of the team, skills of engineers, reliability of personnel made sketches and drawings come to reality”, says Ali Yoldashov, Mammoet’s Regional Manager – Caspian.

The energy transition is an ambitious project for many national economies. Big-ger, more powerful, more efficient is the motto!

To take the power over long distances from the new sustainable energy sources over the new electricity highways 150mm diameter cables are being delivered in lengths up to 2km on huge cable drums.

Up to now 1km cable drums used for this purpose have been three to five meters long and over four meters in diameter and weigh between 30t and 50t. For new projects such as the German South Link and South-East Link, cable drums with a length of approximately  8m to 12m and weighing up to 100t need to be transported.

Lifting and loading onto the plateau combination

In cooperation with Energieanlagen Ramonat GmbH, Goldhofer has therefore developed a broad portfolio of solutions for transporting cable drums of different weights and sizes. “We have collaborated with Ramonat, who have so much experience of the market, to develop a system that not only consistently meets the needs of our customers with regard to transportation but also takes into account the special challenges of the unreeling process,” says Steinhauser. This makes it possible to act as sole provider on the market for all projects, with an enormous increase in efficiency.

4+6 Heavy-duty combination in use with the new cable drum vessel bridge

The cable drum is transported on a special vessel deck in a Goldhofer heavy-duty (4+6) or (5+7) module combination.

The solution developed has two particular advantages. First, that they are easily mounted hydraulic support legs allow the bridge to be raised to loading area height under full load so that the module combination can be moved under it. This significantly reduces overall length for the last mile for in-creased maneuverability on all types of construction sites, especially in combination with self-propelled modules.

10 axle combination in operation

Secondly, the system includes integrated unreeling equipment with synchronized drive for jerk-free operation at the destination.

“The new Goldhofer cable drum bridges give us everything we need. They are lighter and shorter than previous comparable solutions, offer easy handling, high maneuver-ability and cable unreeling – all in one,” says Stefan Ramonat, Managing Director of Energieanlagen Ramonat GmbH. “The cross-section of the bridge has been optimized to allow the cable drum to hug the ground for the lowest possible overall traveling height, corresponding to flange diameter. 100t drums can be transported on a (4+6) combination without exceeding the maximum axle load of 12t.”

For the last mile, the cable drum in the vessel bridge can also be loaded on the plateau

The vessel bridge can be lifted hydraulically under full load

Featured Title photograph

4+6 Heavy-duty combination in use with the new cable drum vessel bridge

18 Apr 2023 – Goldhofer’s ADDRIVE with the FTV 850 Blade Carrier Highlights at CONEXPO

The people at Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft were more than satisfied with the outcome of this year’s CONEXPO in Las Vegas: “The great interest shown by trade visitors in the new products presented was overwhelming. Our expectations were more than exceeded with regard to demand for top-quality transportation solutions and value-creating services,” say Matthias Ruppel, CEO at Goldhofer Aktiengesellschaft. This was due in large part to the Goldhofer vehicles that have been developed specially for the North American market such as the P12 PLUS highway trailer.

the P12 PLUS Highway trailer

The US portfolio on display met with a highly positive response from customers. The Goldhofer P12 PLUS, and also the STZ- P9, proved to be of particular interest. This highway trailer offers maximum flexibility for a wide range of applications. In the 12-axle version, the semitrailer has a maximum payload of up to 281,000 lbs (127t) at an axle load of 26,400 lbs (12t). The hydraulic steering has been optimized for traveling on public roads, making it an all-rounder for the long-distance highways of North America. “Thanks to its multiple variants and flexible configuration options, freight forwarders can now operate with a single vehicle to transport a variety of special and everyday loads in the various states,” says Jerry Rothwell, Director of Sales – North America.

The STZ-VL three-axle lowboy semitrailer with an additional flip axle also attracted keen interest. On the North American market especially, the additional flip axle is a key consideration. It increases the vehicle’s flexibility and payload and enables it to operate across interstate lines with changes in regulations.

The highlight in Las Vegas and an absolute eye-catcher was Goldhofer’s ADDRIVE with the FTV 850 blade carrier. With the ADDRIVE 2.0, the Bragg company has opted for an intelligent transportation solution for its fleet. The vehicle combines the advantages of a towed heavy-duty module with those of a self-propelled module. With its enormous tractive force, it supports the tractor unit up to a speed of 31 mph (50 km/h). The driven axles are then disengaged automatically and can be re-engaged at lower speeds while driving. The ADDRIVE 2.0 is also a time- and cost-saving solution when switching from the support function on a public highway to working as a purely self-propelled vehicle for the final off-road section of the route. This means greater efficiency and optimum flexibility for every vehicle fleet.

The ADDRIVE was presented in combination with the FTV 850. As the buyer of the blade carrier, Mountain Crane took the opportunity to mount a sawed-off wind turbine blade for demonstration purposes. This made the unit a real crowd puller. The FTV 850 is designed for maximum safety and stability for wind turbine transports. The new design concept makes light work of difficult routes and minimizes the need to make changes to the roadside infrastructure. Narrow passages in built-up areas, forests and winding roads present no problems to this maneuverable combination.

30 March 2023 – PESADO Delivers 218t Compressor on 16 axle Goldhofer THP/SL heavy-duty combination

PESADO Transport, based in Tampico, Mexico, has delivered a gas compressor to the Miguel Hidalgo Refinery in Tula.

The 430km journey was covered by the experienced team of PESADO Transport with their 16 axle Goldhofer THP/SL heavy-duty combination to deliver a 218t gas compressor from the port in Veracruz to the Miguel Hidalgo refinery in Tula. The refinery in the Mexican state of Hidalgo is being refurbished and upgraded in the course of Mexico’s energy reform program.

Whenever ultra-heavy loads need to be reliably transported and delivered right on time in Mexico, the PESADO heavy haulage company is always on board. The company was established in 2012 as a spin-off of ESEASA Construcciones. The heavy transport experts have long years of experience in transporting heavy and oversized loads, especially on challenging routes. That was the case on the approximately 430km long route from Veracruz to the Miguel Hidalgo refinery in Tula, with a total of 6 toll plazas, numerous bridges and tunnels to be negotiated with a rig with an overall traveling height of approx. 5.6 meters.

The PESADO team under their project manager Ramiro Muñoz, therefore decided to use a dropdeck to transport the 218t gas compressor, which was 14.8m long, 5.3m wide and 5.17m high. The equipment selected was a 16 axle heavy-duty module combination including a dropdeck with a payload of up to 300t and deck extensions for a length of 15m. The combination, which was approx. 65 m long and had an overall weight of 385t, was operated as push-pull tractor trailer rig with two Western Star 515hp heavy-duty tractors.

Another tunnel negotiated without any problems 

The convoy, with an overall width of 5.3 m and a total height of 5.6 m wound its way along the roads of Mexico. Again and again the transport crew, and also the equipment itself, had to show what they were capable of in order to pass over and under various obstacles. “Thanks to the hydraulic axle stroke on the heavy-duty modules, we had room to maneuver with the 5.6m high rig weighing 385 tons.”, says Miguel de la Vega, Content Creator/Visual Communicator of ESEASA group.

The next obstacle: a bridge to pass under

7 March 2023 – GOLDHOFER UPGRADES ITS »LINK« TELEMETRY SYSTEM

Goldhofer is taking its »LINK« telemetry system to a new level. The system, which is available for all cargo and aircraft tow tractors and has been upgraded with additional features, enables GSE operators to enhance the performance and safety of their vehicles, simplify maintenance and extend their service life.
Goldhofer »LINK« transmits live data from sensors located on the vehicle via a cloud to a user-friendly dashboard. The data range from charge status, temperature, pressure, speeds and work steps to the current location and running times of components such as the steering and brake pumps.
The system not only captures and collects information in real time; based on periodic interrogation of the data collected, it also generates specific maintenance recommendations and service schedules for the vehicle. For the operator, this means additional safety, cost savings and efficiency.

The »LINK« telemetry system with its ever-growing functionality has been developed to monitor all operational and vehicle parameters and to provide worldwide access to and visualization of current and historical vehicle data such as GPS positions and operating parameters. It also provides information – with real-time alert messages – on potentially dangerous situations relating to excessive speed or worn parts, for example. This significantly increases operational safety, facilitates service interval planning, reduces maintenance work, and repairs to a minimum.
“For our customers, the result is enormous planning security. Via global remote access, they can manage their fleets, check on any anomalies, plan maintenance schedules and order the necessary parts in advance. This means unprecedented fleet efficiency.” says Oliver Noack, Head of IT and Digitalization at Goldhofer, and he continues: “We have designed the Goldhofer »LINK« as a modular system in three packages. This enables users to install and upgrade the system according to their individual requirements.”

Goldhofer is currently working on the next new functions for »LINK«. They include geofence options and remote control update capabilities. This additional functionality is due to be made available next year.

10 Jan 2023 – New Benchmarks in Innovation From Goldhofer at Conexpo-Con/AGG in March

Goldhofer is presenting no fewer than four highlights for the American market at CONEXPO-CON/AGG at the outdoor stand D2239.

Their stand will deisplay the A STZ-VL4 (3+1) lowboy trailer with flip axle and deck inserts, the P12 PLUS highway trailer recently introduced specifically for the US market, and an ADDRIVE 2.0 combined with the FTV 850, the global leading wind turbine blade carrier built by Goldhofer.

The STZ-VL4 (3+1) lowboy trailer with flip axle

Time is the key in the grueling everyday world of road transportation. In this context Goldhofer’s STZ-VL double drop semitrailers are a convincing choice in all respects. They are designed for fast and easy front-end loading and, in spite of their low deadweight, will reliably handle very high payloads. An additional pin-on flip axle brings greater flexibility and payload as well as the adaptability to operate across state lines with differences in heavy haul regulations.

The P12 PLUS highway trailer

The ultimate in flexibility for a wide range of transportation operations – that is the new P12 PLUS highway trailer. It offers decisive advantages for successful operations with a modern fleet. The vehicle can be adapted to handle the various loads that go with everyday heavy haul operations and thus ensures optimum fleet capacity utilization. In the 12-axle version, the »P12 PLUS« offers a maximum payload of up to 281,000 lbs (127 t), with a 26,400 lbs (12 t) axle load. It also has the flexibility to be operated in a 9- or 6-axle version. The vehicle’s universal character is underscored by an extensive range of accessories including loading decks and turntables for transporting long and heavy loads using the steerable dolly. “A wide range of jobs with just one vehicle – Goldhofer’s P12 PLUS represents our wealth of experience with the successful THP series transferred to the highway transportation market. Thanks to its variability, heavy haul companies can now ensure punctual delivery of diverse special and everyday loads across state lines with just one vehicle,” says Jerry Rothwell, Director of Sales – North America.

The ADDRIVE in operation

Jerry Rothwell, Sales Director for North America

The ADDRIVE 2.0 is an intelligent solution that combines the advantages of a towed heavy-duty module with those of a self-propelled module. With its enormous driving force, it can support the tractor up to a speed of 31 mph (50 km/h). The drive unit then disconnects automatically and can be reconnected at lower speeds without stopping. With the ADDRIVE 2.0 it is possible to switch from the supporting function for road transportation to off-road operation as a self-propelled vehicle. This means savings in terms of time and costs, and greater efficiency and flexibility for every fleet.

“With its various travel modes, it can be towed, used to deliver additional power to the tractor unit on the road and also operated independently as a hydrostatically powered self-propelled transporter,” says Jerry Rothwell and he adds: “In countless combinations worldwide, more than 60 units are providing outstanding service for our customers, enabling transports that would otherwise have been much more complicated at a higher cost to complete.

The Goldhofer FTV 550 in operation

Goldhofer has been a pioneer in the field of wind turbine blade carriers since 2013. The FTV 850 is designed for maximum safety and stability for wind turbine transports.

An incredible success story that continues to this day began with the FTV 300. Today more than 60 units in different versions are in successful operation around the world, helping to make power generation increasingly sustainable. This is thanks to an intelligent design concept that makes light work of difficult routes and minimizes the need to make changes to the roadside infrastructure. As a result, narrow passages in built-up areas, forests and winding roads present no problems to this maneuverable combination. The largest blade carrier to date can be used not only in the basic width of 9.8 ft (3 m) but also in split combinations with a width of up to over 13.1 ft (4 m). Depending on the configuration, the latest generation of wind turbine blades requiring a load moment of up to 1,870,000 lbs (850 mt) can be picked up and transported on a highly flexible basis.

The Goldhofer team is looking forward to presenting these vehicles live to customers and interested parties at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas.