SPMT is known for one of the latest technologies in the world and its ability to transport oversized and overweight cargo with high precision and safety. To learn more about this “super machine”, let’s find out with SMC through the article below.

What is SPMT?

SPMT, with the full name is Self-propelled Modular Transporter or also known as self-propelled modular transporter, is a special transport equipment with dozens of independently operating axles and a computer-controlled precision steering system. It is developed from hydraulic modular trailers, providing technical logistics solutions for the overall transportation of super-large, super-long and oversized cargo that are not easy to lift and transport.

Currently, SPMT is used in many different industries such as construction, roads and bridges, shipbuilding, clean energy (wind power), oil and gas, etc. This is a new generation of transportation equipment with the most modern technology today.

SPMT – The World’s Largest Self-Propelled Machine

Main structural features of SPMT

SPMT has specifications including 2, 3, 4 or 6 axle types, of which the most popular are 4 and 6 axle types with standard size design of 2.43m wide and 5.6m long for 4 axle type and 8.4m for 6 axle type. The lowest height of the equipment is 1.15m and can be adjusted to lift the floor 0.7m by the integrated hydraulic cylinder system.

The main structure of an SPMT consists of the power unit (PPU) and the hydraulic trailer with the drive axle. The PPU is the power source of the SPMT and is a standalone module that can combine multiple axles together to create large configurations. Generally, the PPU is the part located at the front of the SPMT, providing power and control for the SPMT to operate.

SPMT Power Pack Unit

Hydraulically driven trailer is the main body that directly transports cargo, mainly composed of axle frame, suspension system, steering system, hydraulic system, driven system, power steering system, control system and other equipment. This is the main load-bearing part of the SPMT.

Hydraulic trailer with driven axle.

Outstanding advantages of SPMT

With special structural features, SPMT has the most outstanding advantages among the transport equipment currently available on the market.

1. Flexible transport capabilities:

The biggest advantage of SPMT is its flexible transportation ability, with the ability to easily combine multiple SPMT units together to form a complete large machine like a train car. Therefore, SPMT is capable of transporting cargo of super-sized and super-heavy sizes. For example, assembled bridge body parts, super-large cranes, or even the base of a 4,200-ton oil rig.

Launching the 4,200-ton oil rig base using SPMT.

2. Ensure safety and minimize incidents:

By using hydraulic cylinders to lift and lower the floor vertically, it makes transporting cargo easier. In addition, it is also equipped with the most advanced balancing system to minimize incidents during transportation, ensuring that cargo are transported safely and avoid damage.

SPMT axle frame system.

3. Efficient transportation:

In particular, the SPMT’s wheel system is capable of operating independently, designed to rotate 260 degrees enough for them to move in many different directions with just a quick press of a button to activate different steering functions. This is a feature that helps SPMT to transport cargo easily on many different terrains and in tight spaces.

Computer controlled precision steering system.

Scheuerle SPMT – The world’s most modern transport equipment at SMC

SPMT equipment currently owned by SMC is manufactured by Scheuerle of TII Group, Federal Republic of Germany. SMC is currently the first enterprise in Vietnam to own this high-end SPMT brand.

Currently, SMC owns 8 of the latest SPMT equipment with 6 axles, load capacity of 48 tons/axle, which is currently the largest load capacity for each axle of SPMT.

SMC’s SPMT team are all professionally trained with extensive experience in transporting oversized and overweight cargo.

Some of the projects SMC has implemented include::

– Relocating SCC 800T and 1200T cranes between wind turbines for installation at wind power projects.

– Successfully launched the foundation structure of the 4,200-ton oil and gas rig at PTSC Vung Tau port.

SMC is one of the leading units in providing oversized and overweight cargo transportation services in Vietnam. With extensive experience, we are proud to be the reliable choice of customers and partners nationwide. SMC is always fully equipped with equipment, machinery, and means of transporting oversized and overloaded cargo with a team of experienced and professional engineers, drivers, and crane operators, providing maximum support to customer needs, committed to providing safe solutions for all types of transportation.