Transport of a 4000-ton dock module – comprehensive execution of transport ramps
Our ambitions know no bounds, but we did not expect such a giant – 4000 TONS!
Last week, we participated in the execution of one of the largest transport projects in Poland. Our task was to construct transport ramps enabling the conveyance of a 4000-ton dock module. This structure is one of three parts of the dock being built, with a final length of 235.6 meters and the capacity to accommodate units with a maximum weight of 24,000 tons. All three elements will be joined on water, forming a full-size dock.
The transport took place from the Odra Nowa assembly yard to the Carrier 17 transport barge, and then – after docking at Drzetowskiego Quay – to OP-10 yard. Due to the massive weight of the module, it was necessary to use self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs), which, with the help of 132 axles, allowed for precise movement of the load. A key element of the entire operation was ensuring an appropriate system of transport ramps, which enabled the smooth and safe passage of the structure.
Logistical challenges and the need for transport ramps
Transporting such a massive structure required precise planning and the use of robust infrastructure solutions. The challenges that needed to be addressed included:
- Ensuring a stable surface for the SPMT platforms – the dock module weighed 4000 tons, necessitating the use of extremely durable materials capable of bearing significant dynamic loads.
- Safe transition between different surface levels – it was necessary to design and construct ramps that allowed for smooth movement of the structure between the assembly yard, barge, and OP-10 yard.
- Resistance to atmospheric and water conditions – the transport took place in close proximity to water, requiring the use of materials resistant to moisture and variable weather conditions.
- Quick execution – the operation had to proceed according to the planned schedule to avoid delays in further dock construction.
To meet these requirements, we utilized road plates for rent, which were a key element of the transport ramps.
Wooden road plates Metrum
On the transport barge, we constructed ramps using wooden road plates Metrum, in the Metrum3 and Metrum5 variants. Thanks to their use, we created a durable and flexible surface capable of bearing heavy dynamic loads generated by the SPMT platforms.
The main advantages of using Metrum plates in this execution:
- high resistance to dynamic pressure, which was crucial during the passage of the 4000-ton structure,
- good grip, which minimized the risk of shifting and instability of the load,
- light but durable construction, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly of the ramps.
Aluminum plates Alu Deck HD
At OP-10 yard, where the dock module was to be transported after disembarking from the barge, we used aluminum plates Alu Deck, which were laid in several layers to achieve the required load-bearing capacity and stability.
The most important features of Alu Deck plates:
- high load-bearing capacity, allowing for the transfer of extreme loads,
- resistance to harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for the coastal transport zone,
- light construction, which facilitated the quick assembly of transport ramps.
Check out our other road plates and choose the best solution tailored to your investment.
Project outcomes – what benefits did the use of road plates provide?
Thanks to the appropriate selection of materials and the efficient execution of transport ramps, we were able to:
- provide a stable and durable surface for the passage of the 4000-ton dock module,
- create safe connections between the assembly yard, barge, and OP-10 yard,
- execute the project according to the schedule, enabling further stages of dock construction,
- avoid infrastructure damage, thanks to the even distribution of loads on the surface,
- minimize the risk of delays and failures, which was crucial for an operation of this scale.
This is probably the largest transport of this kind in Poland and one of the largest in Europe!
Such a large undertaking would not have been possible without cooperation with experienced partners. We thank Stocznia Szczecińska Wulkan Sp. z o.o. and Bedmet Sp. z o.o. for their trust and excellent cooperation on this challenging project. Together, we managed to conduct an operation that will go down in the history of heavy transport in Poland and Europe.
Summary – why rent road plates for transport operations?
Transporting heavy structures requires the use of proven and reliable solutions to ensure stability and safety of the operation. In this execution, renting road plates enabled safe access to the assembly yard, the appropriate stabilization of transport ramps, and effective surface protection.
If your investment requires renting road plates, contact us. We offer wooden, aluminum, and steel road plates, tailored to various operating conditions. We invite you to contact us.
