Single-application frames, specifically transport frames, are customised frames or specialised solutions that can be used across various heavy industries. When a component is an usual shape, dimension or extra large weight, there may be a requirement for a customised solution that is engineered to spec. To manufacture these single-application frame, precision planning and engineering is necessary to fulfil specific transport requirements, including multiple configurations for road transport and other onsite component installations. However, though single-application transport frames are sturdy, safe, and legal, they can be expensive since they fulfil only a single application. On the other hand, adjustable steel pallet systems or component-specific standard frames from DAYWALK may be able to do the same job at much lesser costs.
In this post, we look at the viability of transport frames for different projects and components and offer a range of options so you can determine which is best for your operations.
Examples of Single-application Transport Frames
There are many real-world experiences with custom projects to suit component challenges in mining, oil & gas and heavy industry. Some potential requirements for a custom transport frame may include large, heavy or oddly shaped components including:
- Crankshafts
- Motors
- Rail spares
- Magnets
- Chute or Crushing equipment
- Transformers
- Mill Pinions
- Valves
- Turbine Rotors
- Pumps
- Rock Breaking equipment
- Shafts
- Rotors
Large or Complicated Projects Requiring One-off Transport Frames
Companies that offer single-application transport frames maintain that they can give a practical solution to transporting assets safely anywhere. This includes transporting vital heavy equipment in need of repairs or across the country as replacements. Though they may be used repeatedly, they can be used only for a single piece of equipment they were designed to hold. Often, the transport frame is manufactured for just a specific type of transport as well. Of course, custom-made transport frames for single applications are within Chain of Responsibility legislation’s legal bounds, especially the 2018 Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). A customised transport frame is actually in keeping with the responsibility of managing risk and road safety so that nothing is compromised in transporting heavy equipment, most of which can weigh in tonnes. A transport frame fulfils obligations to eliminate or at least minimise any potential risk or harm in being a part of the supply chain.
But, while we have established that single-application transport frames are safe and legal to use, the cost of having to customise and manufacture transport frames for every single piece of heavy equipment for any industry becomes a financial burden. However, this financial burden can be offset if an alternative to single-application transport frames can be found.
Alternatives to One-off Transport Frames
An adjustable certified steel pallets system or adjustable transport frame can be simple solutions for complex components. Pre-engineered by DAYWALK’s inhouse team, these transport rated steel pallets and frames cover Chain of Responsibility and HVNL requirements, with independent certification. Whether components or equipment need to be sent on or off-site, steel pallets and transport frames offer a more cost-effective option. Plus, they are generally in-stock and provide a quick solution so operations don’t have to wait for custom builds.
Instead of engaging a company to design and manufacture a transport frame for a single application for an individual piece of equipment, legal and rated steel pallets can instead handle multiple sizes and shapes. Steel pallets are of heavy-duty construction and contain the correct lugs, lash points and other efficient features for loading, restraint and transport.
Standard Steel Pallets Vs One-off Frames
Standard and in-stock steel pallets from DAYWALK have tonnage capacities ranging from 1 to 12 tonnes. Our adjustable transport frame solution teams our Adapta Heavy Duty Steel Pallet range with adjustable accessories including chocks and stands. Sizes range from 1160 x 1160 mm (3T Adapta) to a huge 3500 x 2320 mm (12T Adapta), with the accessories range providing further flexibility for a variety of components.
Adjustable Transport Frames to Provide Flexibility With Repeated Use
DAYWALK also offers a range of component-specific frames that can be adjusted to suit components of various sizes and weights. This range includes adjustable cylinder frames, pulley frames, wide round frames, and dual platform frames to suit oddly shaped components including knifegate valves. The benefits of these type of adjustable systems is that they are pre-engineered to suit specific component types, yet are designed to be reused a multitude of times as they accommodate a wide range of dimensions.
Selecting a Viable Transport Frame or Pallet
Before determining your need for a one-off custom frame that will be engineered and built specifically for a component, consider adjustable pallet systems and transport frames that can cater for a variety of components in different footprints, sizes and dimensions. DAYWALK offers both custom projects for larger jobs or high-volume and repeat orders, as well as an in-stock range of certified steel pallets and transport frames to suit motors, engines, gearboxes, cylinders, final drives, transformers and more. Get in touch with our Technical Consultants to discuss your transport and storage options, including custom projects and our standard, pre-engineered pallets and transport frames.
