EXG transports green hydrogen plant

One of the wider modules on two columns of Scheuerle SPMT. Photo: EXG

Express Global Logistics (EXG) in India transported and loaded out modules, each weighing up to 250 tonnes, for an energy project in Saudi Arabia.

The 14 modules, for a large green hydrogen project, were moved and placed using Scheuerle self propelled modular transporter (SPMT) from the Megaload fleet. There were 48 axle lines of SPMT, two power pack units (PPU) and specially designed spacers.

The modules were 50 metres long, 12 metres wide and 18 metres tall. Together all the modules were 1,500 FRT (freight tonnes).

For the load out of eight of the modules it was a roll-on roll-off (RoRo) operation. On their SPMT the modules were loaded onto the vessel with ramp plates and stools before fastening for the voyage. The vessel was ballasted for stability.

The other six modules were transported on SPMT to the jetty and lifted into position on the vessel using crawler cranes.

Specially designed spacers between the six axle SPMT modules at the rear. Photo: EXG

Meeting the challenges

EXG designed the spacers for the SPMT to accommodate the load length and maintain structural integrity of the PAR and PAU modules during the loadout.

Protrusions on the superstructure of the vessel were avoided by using the suspension travel of the SPMT. Ballasting was closely co-ordinated as the SPMT was driven on. Limitations of the mooring winches meant the operation had to be carefully managed in a limited time as the tide rose.

“The seamless execution of this project highlights the exceptional capabilities of our in-house engineering team and operational crew,” EXG said, describing it as an intricate operation to transport the heavy modules from the client’s yard to the designated jetty.

In January 2023 Express Global Logistics in India and international heavy transport and lifting specialist Fagioli from Italy established Megaload, a joint venture company. Megaload is based in Mumbai, India, and does lifting and handling projects in the construction, petrochemical and heavy industrial sectors. In addition to SPMT, Megaload has strand jacks, lifting gantries and other alternative lifting and handling equipment.

The Scheuerle self propelled modular transporter (SPMT) from the Megaload joint venture company. Photo: EXG

Neatly loaded vessel with around half of the hydrogen plant moules for Saudi Arabia. Photo: EXG