Heavy-duty trailer manufacturer TII Scheuerle and heavy transport specialist Kübler Spedition have built the STB 320 high girder bridge, specifically designed for the transportation of transformers.
HLPFI reported in September 2024 that the two Germany-based firms had developed the girder bridge.
In its largest configuration, the STB 320 can achieve axle loads of 12 tonnes with a payload of up to 320 tonnes. This reduces approval time and effort as bridge recalculations and inspections are often not necessary given the low axle loads.
The girder bridge weighs around 50 tonnes less than its predecessor, and the configuration of the modular platform vehicle allows for all axle combinations from 9+9 through to 22+22, with axle combinations above 18+18 seeing the load positioned above the axle lines.
With a compact slewing ring as well as a load distribution frame that is integrated into the chassis of the central bogie unit, the STB 320 does not require additional heavy load distribution frames. Therefore, self-supporting transformers can be suspended directly into the bridge up to a support length of 12.5 m. Additional axle lines can be added too, due to its large stroke of the side girder deck.
Safety is enhanced by a new damping system for the lateral support of the lifting lever and through an electronic braking system (EBS), which has a larger track width. Electricity grid operator TransnetBW is monitoring the use of the modernised girder bridge as to whether it will purchase the vehicle from TII Scheuerle.
Last week, TII Scheuerle launched its fully electric power pack unit (PPU).
