I. Introduction
When moving massive loads like bridge sections or wind turbine parts, conventional transport fails. This is where the Self Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) comes in. This engineering marvel relies on specialized SPMT tires as its vital foundation. This article explains SPMT basics, key global self propelled modular transporter manufacturers, and details the crucial tire technology that makes it all work.
II. Self Propelled Modular Transporter
(1) What is an SPMT?
An SPMT is an ultra-heavy-duty self-propelled transport platform composed of multiple Self-Propelled Modular Electronic (MSPE) units. Each MSPE module is an independent intelligent unit integrating power, suspension, steering, and control systems. Like “Lego bricks,” they can be flexibly combined to form a transport fleet of the required scale based on the size and weight of the cargo.
(2) Overview of Major Global SPMT Manufacturers
The SPMT market is dominated by a few technologically leading self propelled modular transporter manufacturers, while Chinese manufacturers are rapidly rising.
| Region | Representative Manufacturers | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | Germany’s TII Group (including Scheuerle), Netherlands’ Mammoet, Belgium’s Sarens, Germany’s Goldhofer, Italy’s Cometto, Germany’s Faymonville | Technology pioneers, possessing the longest project experience and high-end market share. |
| USA | Enerpac | Provides heavy-duty lifting and moving solutions. |
| China | XCMG, CIMC Vehicles, Suzhou Dafang, Jiangsu Haipeng, Xindafang Group | Have become important global competitors leveraging high cost-performance, rapid technological catch-up, and vast domestic market support. |
III. SPMT Tires: The Balance of Specialization, Reliability, and Performance
As the sole medium between the load and the ground, the performance of SPMT tires directly determines the safety, stability, and efficiency of the entire system. This is a highly specialized niche market, primarily utilizing tubeless, press-on designs, with core requirements being ultimate load capacity, ultra-long life, and minimal maintenance.
1. Main Types of SPMT Tires
Industrial Solid Tires: Made of solid, high-density rubber, pressed onto the rim. Offer the highest load capacity, are puncture-proof and maintenance-free. First choice for ultra-heavy SPMTs. Common size: 355/65-15.
Industrial Pneumatic Bias Tires: Inflated tires with a bias-ply structure. Provide better cushioning and lower initial cost. Suitable for lighter loads or rougher ground.
All-Steel Radial Tires: Feature a steel radial structure for durability and low rolling resistance. Best for SPMTs needing both off-site and highway travel.
Key Point: For most core, extreme heavy-load tasks, industrial solid tires are the primary choice. The other types are used for lighter auxiliary transport or highway trailers.
2. In-Depth Introduction to Global Core SPMT Tire Manufacturers and Products
(1) Zhongce Rubber (ZC Rubber)
Main SPMT Tire Model: Chaoyang CL403 355/65-15
Core Features:
High Load Capacity: Single tire load capacity reaches 12 tons.
Long Life: The wear-resistant layer is nearly 60mm thick, with an estimated service life exceeding 2,000 hours.
High Flexibility: A solid tire specially designed for flexible ground movement of heavy cargo.
Application Case: Equipped on the SPMT platform of China’s Wanshan Special Vehicle Co., Ltd. (this platform has 300 tires and a transport capacity exceeding 1,000 tons), and successfully assisted in setting a new Asian transport capacity record by moving a 5,000-ton coast guard vessel.
(2) Continental Tire
Main SPMT Tire Model: 355/65-15 24PR N TL IC 40 EXTRA DEEP
Core Features:
Deep Tread Pattern: Utilizes the “40 EXTRA DEEP” technology for exceptional durability and traction.
High Load Rating: The 24PR rating signifies extremely high load-bearing capacity.
Application Case: Primarily applicable to and equipped on SCHEUERLE brand SPMT platform trailers.
(3) Dunlop Tire
Main SPMT Tire Model: 355/65-15 & 33.5×11.25-25 26PR
Core Features:
Ultra-Large Specifications: Provides large-size solid tires such as 33.5×11.25-25.
Top-Tier Load Capacity: 26PR rating, designed specifically for SPMT axle modules with the highest payload capacity on the market (60-70 tons per axle).
Application Case: Equipped on high-end SPMT modules like the Cometto MSPE EVO series.
(4) Forlander Tire
Main SPMT Tire Models:
Solid Tire Series: 355/65-15 28PR / 33.5×11.25-15 28PR/32PR PRO TECH
All-Steel Radial Tire Series: FR966 (covering various sizes like 9.5R17.5, 215/75R17.5, 285/70R19.5)
Core Features:Professional Solid Tires: Achieve extremely high single-tire load capacity through high ply ratings (up to 32PR) and special compounds.
All-Steel Radial Technology: The FR966 series uses full-width protector ply technology, balancing highway durability and damage resistance.
Application Case: The product line is extensive, suitable for multiple mainstream SPMT brands such as Mammoet, SCHEUERLE, Goldhofer.
(5) Michelin Tire
Main SPMT Tire Models:
XTE2+ 215/75 R17.5 (All-Steel Radial Tire)
285/70R19.5 and other large-size tires
Core Features:Balanced Performance: Achieves an excellent balance between load capacity, safety, and fuel efficiency (low rolling resistance).
Extremely Validated: The equipped vehicles have undergone rigorous testing and can withstand extreme loads, such as 23 tons per tire.
Application Case: Suitable for Goldhofer modular trailers and SCHEUERLE heavy-duty combination transport vehicles.
(6) Goodyear Tire
Main SPMT Tire Model: 245/70R17.5 2 KMAX T
Core Features:
Relies on its mature commercial tire technology platform to provide reliable performance.
Application Case: Suitable for the Goldhofer THP/SL-S series of modular transporters.
(7) Double Coin Tire
Main SPMT Tire Model: RT500 Series (e.g., 9.5R17.5, 7.50R15)
Core Features:
Economical and Durable: As an all-steel radial special-purpose trailer tire, it focuses on durability and service life.
Application Case: Suitable for heavy-duty transport scenarios that are cost-sensitive and require reliable performance.
IV. Summary and Outlook
The SPMT is essential for modern mega-projects. Its specialized tires, particularly industrial solid tires, provide the critical foundation of reliability. While European self propelled modular transporter manufacturers lead in high-end technology, Chinese brands are now key global competitors through innovation and cost-effectiveness. The future will focus on smarter, more durable solutions for this vital industry.
