When it comes to long and self-supporting loads, transport solutions are highly dependent on the route profile. Self-steering trailers are used where several pivot points are required, such as on winding passages. Jobs carried out by the international heavy goods specialist LASO Transportes illustrate how innovative technologies and precise planning work together seamlessly.
The guiding principle of retaining as much freedom of movement as possible with complex loads has a significant influence on vehicle development. This is exactly where the FlexMAX self-steering trailer combinations come in, thanks to their turntable technology. „They enable exceptional manoeuvrability – and that is invaluable, especially on difficult routes or in tight spaces,“ says Beatriz Santos, Marketing Manager at LASO Transportes.
Self-supporting material through tight bends
Basically, the way it works is simple: Thanks to the selfsupporting structure, the rear dolly follows the front bogie and tractor unit autonomously, without any restrictions on length. „Our general impression of the 3+5-axle airsuspension vehicles with 19.5“ tyres is absolutely positive,“ explains Beatriz Santos and gives an insight into how the FlexMAX is proving itself in Portugal. „The flexibility allows us to adapt to a wide range of load sizes and weights, which significantly increases our operational efficiency.“ This time, concrete girders for the construction of a logistic park had to be transported.
With a length of 25 metres each and weights of 70 and 56 tonnes, they placed particular demands on the logistics. The route led from Pinhal Novo to Santarém, northeast of Lisbon. It forced the planners to brood over the route. „One of the biggest challenges is to ensure the safe manoeuvring and stability of these long girders – especially in the tight bends and on the narrow roads,“ explain the managers at LASO Transportes. „It also requires precise planning and coordination in order to minimise disruptions and ensure on-time delivery of the materials.“
Sustainable and reliable solution
The FlexMAX has long since established itself as one of the trump cards in the LASO Transportes vehicle fleet. The vehicles – the friction steered front dolly and the hydraulically knuckle-steered rear dolly – also make a significant contribution to sustainability. „Self-steering trailers significantly reduce wear and tear on both equipment and road infrastructure, which is crucial for long-term reliability,“ explains Beatriz Santos. In addition to this duo as a 3+5 version, LASO Transportes also uses 2+4 FlexMAX variants with wind turbine blade adapter. For the marketing manager, the FlexMAX technology will continue to have a positive impact on the company‘s development in the future. „This allows us to flexibly adapt to different load sizes and weights, which makes us more efficient while at the same time increasing safety and precision, as well as ensuring customer satisfaction.“
Publication: 03/2025