Hydro Aluminium Metal Attracted to Cometto 10-axle self-propelled ModulMAX SP-E

The production of aluminium is energy-intensive. A result of this massive amount of energy there is a strong magnetic field, measurable in units of gauss, in the production halls of the Norwegian Hydro Aluminium Metal company.

The company Hydro commissioned a 10-axle self-propelled ModulMAX SP-E, capable of not only delivering a 250t payload, but also operating within a magnetic field with a flux density of 610 gauss.

This is by no means a simple matter. Because the radio remote control and the electronic steering of the new self-propelled unit do not actually get along with these special requirements. In such an environment, not only a mechanical wristwatch stops. Even a 41 mm open-end spanner straightens up vertically as if by magic.

Magnetic moments that impress.

“Through targeted shielding protection measures in the area of the electrical valves and around the PC with its electronic control cards, our developers succeeded in making the vehicle suitable for use in such a special environment,” reports Joachim Kolb, the project manager, about the exciting specifications.

The 3,000mm wide self-propelled vehicle with eight wheels per axle line – equipped with Cometto’s know-how – takes on the task of transporting the PotShell from the production hall to the repair area at Hydro’s plant. There it is then equipped with new cathodes and a new lining. Afterwards, the furnace lower shells in the circuit are brought back to the production hall.

The vehicle combination delivered to Hydro consists of a 4 axle module with spacer and a 6-axle module. In order to keep the overall length as compact as possible, the 372kW Powerpack with its two Tier 5 diesel engines and the driver’s cab were positioned on top of each other on the chassis. This design also guarantees the driver the best possible overview during transport.

The successful cooperation fulfilled all the customer’s requirements and ability for the vehicle in operation at Karmøy.

Hydro is a leading company in the field of aluminium and renewable energy. Since 1905, Hydro has been processing natural resources into valuable products. Currently, over 31,000 employees work for the company at more than 140 locations in 40 countries.

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