PTB delivers special platform truck for ESS in Sweden

Internal transport specialist PTB Special Products has delivered a custom made platform truck to the ESS Research Center for the transportation of large klystrons used in the research of particle acceleration.

In the ESS research center, large klystrons are used to generate drive power for particle accelerators. These klystrons, each weighing four and a half tons, must be transported. For this type of transportation a standard solution does not exist, therefore ESS turned to PTB for a custom solution. PTB engineers have developed a mast platform truck that can lift the klystrons accurately, using the horizontal and hydraulically slidable platform. The tubes (klystrons) are then attached to the mast for optimal stability.

Side-shift platform and hydraulic stabilizers

Moving the klystrons must be done very accurately, these products are expensive and very fragile. The climbers that place the klystrons are also quite high, so they are attached to the top of the machine during transport, for extra stability. The platform can be shifted horizontally by means of a hydraulic system, so that the klystrons can be accurately picked up. In addition, the machine is equipped with extendable stabilizers on both sides of the chassis. The stabilizers are just slightly above ground, so if the machine is in danger of tilting, the stabilizer will catch up. These stabilizers are hydraulically driven.

Rising demand for customization

Efficient internal logistics is increasingly seen as the way to speed up logistical processes. Customized internal transport will always have economic benefits in the long run. As PTB is one of the few companies with customized expertise, applications from the Dutch company can be found all over the world.

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