In convoy to the wind farm

On the factory premises, numerous concrete half-shells are already prepared, with the MAX810 units standing ready for operation. Safety is given the highest priority at every single step. Each vehicle is extendible in order to accommodate the large-format components in the first place. Suddenly, a snow flurry sets in, but typical for April, the weather quickly shifts back to sunshine. One by one, the Schwandner drivers begin the loading process. Reversing into the site, they position themselves optimally for loading. „When manoeuvring, the forced steering system ensures absolute precision. The remote-controlled steering of the 17.5” pendle-axles is extremely practical in every situation“, explains Jakob Stuiber, transport manager at Schwandner. Hydraulic functions such as ride height adjustment and steering alignment can also be conveniently controlled via remote control. The mobile gantry crane slowly approaches, guiding the concrete elements precisely over the trailer, where they are lowered with great care onto the support points. The load is then securely fastened. Afterwards, the convoy moves to a holding area next to the factory premises, where the team waits for the start of the night transport.

The transport window only opens at 11 p.m. Drivers and escort teams operate as a well-coordinated unit, with every process running smoothly. There is laughter and a relaxed atmosphere even at this late hour – but once the signal is given via radio, focus immediately returns. Headlights and warning lights cut through the darkness as the transports set off in a two-vehicle convoy. First, they travel along country roads, then continue onto the motorway towards Berlin. Despite the night-time schedule, traffic remains present, with numerous vehicles passing the heavy transports, which immediately draw attention. The MAX810 combinations demonstrate their strengths, for example at motorway exits: even at full extension length, their cornering behaviour remains stable without the need for manual adjustment of steering rods. „This stability, combined with the forced steering system, is exactly what makes the difference in daily operations“, adds Jakob Stuiber. The final kilometres lead back into rural areas and into a forest region where a new wind farm is being constructed. A short stop at the project site parking area offers a moment to rest before continuing at dawn.

A total of ten wind turbines in hybrid construction are being erected here, combining massive concrete segments in the lower sections with lighter steel elements in the upper tower structure. The cold of the morning hangs over the site, while between trailers, construction area, and crane operations, activity is already in full swing. Yet there is no sign of chaos in the forest – everything is precisely organised and clearly structured. The turbines, which will later reach heights of around 179 metres, take shape here at their origin, with eight MAX810 units – soon to be joined by six additional new vehicles of the same type in Schwandner’s fleet – ensuring reliable transport of the heavy components in the future as well.