Solideal On-Site Service quickly resolved a critical tyre issue at Gwynt y Môr offshore wind farm, boosting safety and logistics.
Expert Tyre Solutions for Offshore Operations
Solideal On-Site Service’s expertise has resolved an urgent operational issue at the RWE-operated Gwynt y Môr, a 576-megawatt offshore wind farm in North Wales.
Gareth Brandrick, RWE Special Projects Manager, says: “We were facing a situation that had caused significant cost to our logistics operation. Solideal On-Site Service responded quickly, assessed our requirements in-person and came up with an effective solution.”
Challenging Offshore Logistics at Gwynt y Môr
Located 13km offshore, maintenance and repair of the 160 wind turbines comprising the farm is a full-time undertaking. RWE uses a combination of two Bradshaw material trucks and 20 Viking trailers to ferry supplies and equipment along a 40m metal linkspan bridge connected to a pontoon, where they are loaded by crane-equipped boats.
The Irish Sea site has one of Europe’s largest tides, significantly steepening the slipway angle. RWE determined that refining logistics was necessary to uphold both safety and efficiency.
Rugged Tyres Fitted On-Site by Solideal
RWE approached Solideal On-Site Service on a speculative basis and received a prompt response led by Kayte Masterson, Territory Business Manager. She and Technical Manager, Clifford De Jager, subsequently visited Gwynt y Môr to better understand the challenges.
“Tyres aren’t our speciality, so Solideal’s expert advice and swift action made a real difference. The new tyres are working perfectly,” Brandrick adds.
Solideal On-Site Service recommended – and ultimately fitted on-site – rugged pneumatic tyres. The Bradshaw material trucks now wear SOLIDEAL HAULERS sized 5.00-8, and the trailer rides on SOLIDEAL AIR 570s sized 15×4½-8. Both fitments feature reinforced carcasses and sidewall protection technology for a safe, durable performance.
Brandrick added that, through its engagement with Solideal On-Site Service, the team is now well-informed about key aspects of tyre husbandry. This is supported by Masterson’s regular visits and checks.
