Collett has completed the transport and installation of a 205-tonne Kolektor transformer from the Port of Rotterdam to Statkraft’s Thornton Greener Grid Park in North Yorkshire, UK.
The operation required complex international logistics, specialist abnormal load transport equipment and extensive route planning. Measuring 9.9 metres long, 3.6 metres wide and 4.2 metres high, the transformer demanded precise handling at every stage, with teams working through difficult weather conditions to ensure a safe and efficient delivery.
The project combined abnormal load road transport, roll-on/roll-off vessel operations and on-site hydraulic jacking and skidding to position the transformer on its final plinth.
At Rotterdam, the transformer was loaded onto Collett’s 550-tonne Scheuerle girder frame trailer, which had been pre-assembled in advance and shipped to the port aboard the Terra Marique, operated by Robert Wynn & Sons. Two port cranes carried out a tandem lift to place the transformer onto the trailer and secure it for the UK journey.
At Hull’s Albert Dock, the load was rolled off the vessel using a purpose-built ramp system. With a 16-metre quay section unable to support the loaded vehicle, Collett’s Engineering Department designed a bespoke ramp to safely bridge the weak area—allowing the offload to proceed safely despite no alternative options.
Planning and coordination lasted more than a year, including route surveys and structural assessments along the 30-mile route from Hull. The final road convoy measured 66.4 metres in total train length. Installation at site included a 27-metre skid track, enabling the transformer to be lifted, rotated and positioned with precision.
All activities were completed without incident and delivered on schedule.
