36 Cometto Axle Lines Move 300t LNG Tank Across Finland

Finnish heavy haulage specialist Vuorsola has completed an exceptional 31-kilometre transport of a 300-tonne LNG tank from Teuva to the Port of Kaskinen, using two Cometto MSPE self-propelled modular transporters operating side by side with a total of 36 axle lines.

Measuring 15 metres wide and 14 metres high, with a capacity of approximately 2,300 m³, the tank required extensive route preparation before it could travel through the Finnish countryside towards its future maritime application.

The operation took place during Finland’s thawing season, when reduced ground-bearing capacity severely limited suitable locations for fuel stops and breaks. As a result, the convoy had to remain in continuous motion across much of the route.

“One of the biggest challenges of this transport is the tight schedule. Finland is still experiencing the thawing season. After assessing the ground-bearing capacity, only a limited number of suitable locations are available for fuel stops and breaks,” said Elina Hassinen, Deputy Managing Director and Transport Manager at Vuorsola.

With the load twice the width of the seven-metre road in several locations, approximately four metres of additional clearance had to be created on each side. An access ramp from Highway 8 was completely rebuilt, while traffic islands and road dividers were modified to allow the transporter combination to pass.

The Cometto SPMTs’ electronic steering system was critical through the narrowest sections, including a particularly constrained passage alongside a Finnish country house.

Additional challenges came from power infrastructure. Along one coastal section, overhead lines could not be lowered, leading to the installation of a subsea cable as an alternative. Vuorsola’s engineering team also developed specific methods to lift 110 kV power lines above the 14-metre-high transport.

The move was particularly unusual because SPMTs are normally restricted to closed industrial sites in Finland and are not generally approved for public-road operation. A special road closure permit was therefore required, allowing sections of the route to be transformed into controlled transport corridors.

Even Highway 8 was closed for several hours, with diversions introduced while the convoy passed.

“This transport, as well as the upcoming move of a second tank of similar dimensions, represents a genuine milestone for our team,” said Elina Hassinen, Deputy Managing Director and Transport Manager at Vuorsola.