Wind Energy Trailers
Modern day wind farms are becoming major contributors to the United State’s power supply, serving as proof of the nation’s interest and commitment to using alternative energy. But these farms couldn’t be built without the equipment used to transport the turbine components from the manufacturer to the construction site. In the past, trailers used to mobilize the equipment on site lacked the safety, easy-of-use and the hauling capacity required of today’s offerings.
The Siebert Wind team relied on their background and experience in production and engineering of specialized transportation trailers to manage the research and development of the wind energy line. In fall 2008, the team embarked on a nine-month process of discovery, researching the equipment and processes involved in wind turbine manufacturing and transport.
In late March of 2009, Heil Trailer International, Co. subsidiary Kalyn Siebert announced the formation of Siebert Wind, a line of trailers built specifically for the transportation of wind turbines. Within Siebert Wind, the company designed three trailer models to efficiently haul a windmill’s tower, blades and electricity generator.
The Double-Schnabel Tower Transporter – designed to haul the tower sections of wind turbines – is the first-of-its-kind Schnabel-neck trailer that can hook up to a section of the tower, raise it off the ground and adjust its ride-height without the operator having to climb the equipment, making it more safe than older models. Crane operators without the Double-Schnabel have to lift sections onto trailers and drivers had to physically secure them.
In addition, wireless remote hydraulic controls keep the driver safe by allowing him to operate the trailer from afar, virtually eliminating pinch-point injuries. The Double-Schnabel is also self-steering for tracking and turning radius. The tower transporter features 36 wheels and is made from 40 tons of steel. It can accommodate 70 tons of load weight.
Siebert Wind’s triple-extendable blade trailer – now undergoing final testing – can be expanded with optional deck inserts, which enables it to haul windmill blades two at a time. Additionally, the trailer features a 20-foot extension, allowing it to haul single blades up to 158 feet in length.
The company’s 13-axle deck trailer – made to haul the windmill’s power generator – was created in the 1990s, but has been modified for the wind energy sector. The power generator hauler has the widest frame width in the industry, the company says. This, in addition to a four-pin detachable deck connection, optimizes stability for loads and the deck can be expanded with optional deck inserts.
As windmills grow in height and weight, haulers need the proper training to move and hook up the components of the tower. Siebert Wind addressed this need in last year when it purchased a used wind tower and assembled it at the factory for training purposes. Clients who purchase any of the trailers in the Siebert Wind line can receive training and certification on how to properly hook up the tower and transport it. The training program will include classroom training as well as hands-on learning at the company’s headquarters. Customer support has always been a key focus point for Heil Trailer International, Co. and the Kalyn Siebert brand. Our commitment to our customers is unsurpassed and the training and support they will receive with these wind products will set a new standard for the wind energy transportation sector plus on focus with the environment.
Siebert Wind believes that capturing the wind requires more than just insight and ingenuity. It takes long- lasting, light weight specialized trailers—made to conquer the most rugged tower sites on Earth