Hydraulic skidding system aids US power plant

A failed transformer was moved out of an electricity generating facility and replaced with a new one by Missouri, USA-based HWP Rigging using a Hydra-Slide HT500 skidding system.

One of the Missouri plant’s four generators was out of service due to the failing step-up transformer, which increases the voltage of electricity that is generated by the turbine so it can be transmitted through the grid to homes and businesses.

The 500 tonne capacity heavy track system was used to skid the transformer 120 feet (36.6 metres) clear of the existing foundation before a replacement was unloaded from a self-propelled modular transporter and slid into position, again using the HT500. Both transformers weighed approximately 400 tonnes; the replacement unit was designed to be as close a match to the original as possible.

Steve Hentrich, HWP Rigging project engineer, said, “We started removal of the failed transformer on a Friday afternoon and worked around the clock until the replacement transformer was set in its place, working five consecutive shifts until Sunday morning.

"We spent two to three days on the front and back end mobilising equipment and assembling / disassembling the modular trailer onsite. The work was completed ahead of schedule and without incident.”

HWP owns four HT500 skidding systems from Canada-based manufacturer Hydra-Slide, typically employed in the power distribution sector.