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Mammoet’s Texas team recently took on the massive task of relocating a 3,900-ton dragline across nearly 24 kilometers (15 miles) to a new mining site. The job required precision, patience, and plenty of logistical expertise, as the journey involved crossing a state highway, navigating a small creek, and maneuvering beneath four major high-voltage power lines.
Before the transport could begin, the dragline was carefully jacked up approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet) to allow for loading onto Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs). These specialized transporters, known for their ability to handle extreme weights with precision, were crucial in ensuring the machine’s stability throughout the move.
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Unpredictable weather conditions, including heavy rain and thick fog, added complexity to an already demanding operation. Muddy terrain posed an additional hurdle, requiring the team to adapt their plans and work closely with site engineers to maintain safety and efficiency. Despite these obstacles, the team executed the project with minimal disruption and within the scheduled timeframe.
Relocating a piece of equipment of this scale is no small feat. Draglines, which are commonly used in large-scale mining operations, are among the heaviest pieces of machinery in the world. Moving such a colossal structure requires months of meticulous planning, route assessments, and coordination with local authorities to ensure smooth execution and compliance with safety regulations.
Crossing a state highway was one of the more delicate aspects of the project. Traffic management teams were deployed to temporarily halt vehicle flow, allowing the massive transport to pass safely. Additionally, the crossing of a small creek necessitated temporary reinforcements to support the weight of the dragline, ensuring no environmental damage occurred.
Navigating under high-voltage power lines demanded a precise approach, with clearances measured to the centimeter to avoid any risk to infrastructure or personnel. Mammoet’s team worked closely with utility providers to ensure all precautions were in place before proceeding with this critical part of the move.
Mammoet’s ability to overcome these challenges underscores its reputation as a leader in heavy lifting and transport solutions. The company’s extensive experience and innovative approaches allowed the project to be completed without incident, once again demonstrating why they are trusted for complex relocations worldwide.
