Transport and heavy rigging firm Dynamic Specialized replaced a transformer at a facility in Northern Virginia, using a Hydra-Slide hydraulic skidding system, turntable and related products combined to provide a suitable alternative to a crane. The work covered the removal and relocation of one unit, in addition to the positioning of a larger transformer on the vacated foundation.

“This was a difficult project for us to secure as the local crane company had done a very good job of convincing the client that a jacking and sliding system was simply too slow and they could beat our schedule. While our method was already more cost effective it took some convincing to demonstrate that we could get the work done at the same pace, once they factored in crane set-up time etc.,” said Josh Sohler, operations manager at Dynamic.

The existing transformer weighed 190,000 lbs. and measured 20’5” x 18’ x 14’9”, while the other (to be kept as a spare) was larger, at 28’2” x 18’6” x 18’1, and weighed in at 300,000 lbs. The solution used during the process involved Dynamic Specialized’s heavy track hydraulic skidding system and a Hydra-Slide turntable. The HT500 was employed to slide the loads, while the turntable rotated the larger transformer 90 degrees.

Although the initial plan was for the transformer to be disassembled, drained and have all the bushings removed, once on site, the team decided to move the heavier transformer fully dressed, saving time. With the help of Hydra-Slice system that was possible.

“The Hydra-Slide staff and products are second to none. The system and support have been, and continue to be, well over our expectations and we could not be happier. Many of our local competitors are either still utilizing older, ‘homemade-type’ systems or utilizing larger class (and much more expensive) cranes to do the same work. The Hydra-Slide system is quick, clean, safe, and controlled; we continuously receive compliments before, during, and after projects,” Josh concluded.