Multimodal and barging movement of super-heavy process columns by EXG in India

Express Global Logistics, member to the Worldwide Project Consortium (WWPC) in India reported about another special project movement managed by the company’s experts: “This project involved the execution of a multimodal movement of two over-dimensional process columns from Dahej fabrication facility destined to an overseas Exxon site. The operation required precise coordination across road transport, loadout, marine transit, and final delivery stages, all within a tightly controlled timeframe.

The cargo consisted of two critical units: a high-pressure column measuring approximately 70.00 m (L) × 8.00 m (W) × 5.6 m (H) with a weight of 330 metric tons and a low-pressure column measuring 65.80 m (L) × 8.00 m (W) × 5.3 m (H) with a weight of 248 metric tons. The overall movement demanded precise engineering due to the extreme length and high tonnage of the units.

Both units were transported from the fabrication yard to the nearby loadout jetty. Although the distance was short, this phase required detailed assessment of ground conditions, turning radii, and pathway clearances. The SPMT movement was executed in a controlled manner, ensuring uninterrupted transit and maintaining alignment for the upcoming loadout operation.

At the jetty, a suitable barge was positioned for loadout. Due to tidal constraints, the loadout window was limited, requiring precise timing. The operation involved beaching of the barge and transferring the cargo from SPMTs onto the barge with accurate positioning.

Once positioned on the barge, sea-fastening activities were initiated. This phase was critical to secure the cargo against dynamic marine conditions.

Post loadout, the barge commenced marine transit along the western coastal route toward the designated port anchorage. The movement was carried out within a limited sailing window, requiring close coordination between the marine crew and operations team.

Upon arrival at the anchorage, the cargo was delivered under Free Alongside Ship (FAS) terms. Sea fastening arrangements were carefully removed, and the cargo was handed over as per agreed procedures.”

Execution highlights

• Successful handling of ultra-long columns exceeding 70 meters in length
• Precise axle load distribution using 30 axle-line SPMTs
• Completion of sea fastening within 6 hours under time constraints
• Seamless loadout and marine transit within restricted tidal and sailing windows
• Loadout completed in 3 days, followed by marine transportation in 3 days, and discharge at MBPT Anchorage within 3 days.