SC&RA Job of the Year: Radioactive relocation

Edwards Moving & Rigging successfully completed the complex transport of four Class 7 radioactive components from Florida to a disposal site in Texas. This multimodal project involved meticulous planning, innovative engineering and precise coordination across several state agencies.

One of the most notable engineering challenges for the Edwards team involved the securement of large radioactive components using the Goldhofer Faktor 5 high girder bridge system.

The journey began with a barge transport from Florida to Texas, followed by a 991.5-mile road haul utilizing Goldhofer THP-SL with hybrid dollies, and the Faktor 5 high girder bridge. Overcoming challenges such as 150-plus bridge crossings, contraflow movements and infrastructure modifications, the Edwards team demonstrated its expertise in handling oversized, hazardous loads.

Extreme planning

In Florida, the components were loaded onto a deck barge using a 3-file, 12-line Goldhofer PST. They arrived at Rockport Terminal, Texas and were prepared for the over the road transport, which required nine months of planning. This phase involved extensive coordination with the Texas Department of Transportation and various transportation districts, as well as third-party bridge engineering for 158 bridges.

The components were offloaded using the Roll-On/Roll-Off method. A Faktor 5 high girder bridge combination conveyance was used, spreading the weight over 384 tires, powered by Kenworth C500 Prime Movers and a Goldhofer AD-Drive.

With no traditional lashing points, Edwards’ engineering team devised a solution using synthetic chains to wrap and secure the cargo.

“Rigorous safety measures were implemented, including health and safety protocols, equipment safety and securing loads for over-the-road standards for Class 7 hazardous materials,” said Edwards’ Jennifer Schuster. “The 30-day road transport covered 991.5 miles, with extensive planning ensuring no damage to infrastructure or disruption to the public.”

The components were offloaded at the disposal site using a 3-file, 12-line Goldhofer trailer and a 900-ton gantry system, marking the completion of the project.

Of the 158 bridges navigated, dollies were used on 150 of them and pier-to-pier jumps were performed on three bridges. The team also managed two contraflow movements, temporarily closing sections of the interstate and moving in the opposite direction to accommodate the oversized load. At one point, a section of Interstate 20 was shut down to allow the transport to proceed. This project highlights Edwards commitment to safety, innovation, and industry leadership in heavy transport and rigging.