A transformer that took 6 weeks to plan took 4 hours to move.

A major Houston transmission substation required replacement of a failed 5,800 kg power transformer. The transformer bay access was 990mm wide — too narrow for any conventional wheeled solution. The work had to be completed during a 6-hour maintenance window to avoid extended supply outages to 40,000 customers.

Traxon deployed a Scarab X5 with the extended-range wireless remote. The transformer was lifted onto the carrier deck via gantry outside the sub-station, then moved through the access door and positioned onto the transformer pad in a single continuous operation. No secondary jacking or temporary works were required.

The transformer was installed and energised within the 6-hour maintenance window. The client saved an estimated $220,000 in temporary supply costs by avoiding a 3-day outage. Full crew of 2 operators — down from the 8-person crew originally planned for a hydraulic skidding solution.