Retrofitting a molten aluminium ladle transport system to a new semi-trailer fleet

• IndustryAluminium production
• DisciplineMechanical design and power hydraulics
• ConditionExtreme temperatures on a mobile platform
• DeliverableRetrofit engineering and fabrication documentation

The challenge

The existing ladle transport system had to move to a new semi-trailer fleet with a different geometry. With molten aluminium on board, stability during turns and at speed is not a detail: it defines spill risk and operational safety.

Scope

• Structural engineering and integration with the new trailer geometry
• Dimensional adjustments for fit and functionality
• Reinforcement of the components carrying operating and road loads
• Hydraulic system reconfiguration on the new layout
• Design improvements targeting stability during turns and manoeuvres

How we worked

Keep what worked. The retrofit preserved the system's proven functionality and concentrated changes where the new geometry demanded them.

Dynamic behaviour as a design criterion. Structural and hydraulic decisions were driven by stability on the road, not just static load.