Nooteboom introduces the new Super Wing Carrier XL, the ultimate solution for transporting increasingly longer wind turbine rotor blades

Nooteboom Trailers is further expanding its wind transport program with the groundbreaking, four-times extendable Super Wing Carrier XL (SWC-XL). This trailer is specially designed for transporting the latest wind turbine rotor blades, exceeding 85 meters in length. The extremely long trailer, type SWC-91-24V(QP), offers additional length and payload capacity without compromising stability. By incorporating the latest technologies, the Super Wing Carrier XL remains the safest solution for transporting (extremely long) rotor blades.

The SWC-XL represents the next generation of Super Wing Carriers, which includes various new technologies. One of these is the Nooteboom-patented “Wing Shaped Beam.” This clever construction allows the transport height behind the gooseneck, where the root end of the rotor blade is loaded, to remain extra low.

​Increasingly longer rotor blades

​Due to the increasing weight of ever longer rotor blades, the front of the trailer is equipped with a 2-axle Jeep dolly suitable for an 8×4 truck. The rear of the Super Wing Carrier XL features four pendulum axle lines. The loading floor behind the gooseneck can be extended in multiple stages to over 75 meters in length. With additional filling plates, the driver can adjust the curve of the unloaded trailer to match the wing’s shape, ensuring an optimal balance between ground clearance and transport height.

Maximum stability

As the longer rotor blades are particularly heavier and higher at the root end, stability played a crucial role in the SWC-XL’s design. By integrating the steering system into the Jeep dolly chassis instead of the gooseneck, additional stability has been achieved at the front. Furthermore, the extremely torsion-resistant chassis beams and the 2,840mm wide axle bogie at the rear provide extra stability.

Exceptional maneuverability

The free rotating Jeep dolly and the large 60 degree steering angle of the pendulum axles make the trailer highly maneuverable. In combination with the massive 1,600mm gooseneck stroke and the 600mm stroke of the rear pendulum axles, even the most extreme obstacles can be overcome with ease. Additionally, the entire side protection is foldable, improving maneuverability in tight corners.

Fast and efficient loading and unloading

A major advantage of the Super Wing Carrier XL compared to rotor blade transport with a self-steered dolly is the significantly shorter loading and unloading time and ease of operation. The hydraulic support legs with remote control allow for quick and easy extension of the loading platform. All system lines between the front and rear of the trailer are mounted inside the chassis beams for protection. These lines automatically adjust to the extended trailer length. When the Super Wing Carrier XL is empty, the entire Jeep dolly can be lifted using the gooseneck, making retraction quick and easy. Thanks to the rolling load support, the trailer can be easily adapted to different rotor blade lengths and support distances. The rotor blade does not need to be transferred to separate transport frames first but can be loaded directly onto the Super Wing Carrier XL.

Safe transport

Transporting rotor blades with the Nooteboom Super Wing Carrier XL prevents various unwanted forces on rotor blades that typically occur with self-steered dolly transport. This enhances safety, extends the wind turbine’s lifespan, and prevents premature repair and warranty costs. Additionally, the chassis beam protects the underside of the rotor blade from damage during transport. Furthermore, the 1,510mm axle spacing simplifies obtaining a 12-ton per axle exemption across Europe.

Prototype extensively tested with LASO Transportes

Safety is Nooteboom’s top priority. That’s why prototypes undergo extensive testing before being introduced to the market. International transport company LASO Transportes from Portugal proved to be the ideal partner for these tests. After numerous successful transports with the new Super Wing Carrier XL, LASO will take delivery of the second vehicle in April, following its debut at the Bauma trade fair in Munich (stand FN.720/10).