Massive transformers make their way from Germany

JOINING A lengthy list of project cargoes handled by Natco SA International Transports was almost 500-tonnes of electrical equipment and supplies moved recently from Germany to SA by clients, Powertech Transformers (previously ABB Powertech Transformers). This involved planning the entire logistics chain, moving two transformers – each weighing 227-t – and all their accessories and oils, to Matla power station and the Vulcan substation in Mpumalanga. “The cargo,” said Natco SA MD, Patrick Durig, “originated from Bad Honnef in Germany, and was initially shipped on a pontoon down the Rhine River to the port of Antwerp in Belgium. “The specialised MACS-owned vessel, the Black Rhino, was chartered to ship the transformers to Richards Bay, where they were loaded onto beam trailers, and road-hauled to their final destinations.” Natco has a wellestablished projects division, complete with qualified riggers and transport engineers, and handles projects for various mining groups and the engineering industry.