How We Transported a 90 MT Steel Coil Drum from Abu Dhabi to Jafza

This project details the precise engineering and logistical planning required to transport a massive 90 Metric Ton Steel Coil Drum with cable. Moving a cargo with a 6-meter diameter from Abu Dhabi to Dubai Petroleum (inside Jafza) required navigating inter-emirate highways, overcoming adverse weather conditions, and clearing critical overhead obstacles.

Why does moving a 6-meter diameter Steel Coil Drum demand expertise?

Transporting cylindrical heavy cargo like a Steel Coil Drum presents unique challenges regarding the Center of Gravity (CoG) and load security. Unlike flat-bottomed static cargo, a drum requires specialized stabilization to prevent rolling. Furthermore, a diameter of 6,000mm (6 meters) creates significant height clearance issues, making standard routes impossible due to bridges and high-voltage power lines.

Key Project Dimensions

Cargo Diameter: 6,000 mm (6 meters)
Cargo Weight: 90,000 kg (90 Metric Tons): 14,900 mm (14.9 meters)
Transit Distance: ~118 km (Abu Dhabi to Jafza
Route Hazards: 4 High-Voltage Lines, Low Clearance Bridges

What specialized equipment ensured safe transport under high-voltage lines?

To manage the extreme height of the 6-meter drum and the weight of 90 MT, standard low-bed trailers were insufficient. The primary risk was striking overhead infrastructure.

We deployed a Drop Deck Hydraulic Trailer. This equipment was critical because its deck height is significantly lower than standard trailers, allowing the cargo to pass underneath low-clearance bridges and the four major high-voltage power lines identified during our route survey.

Key operational solutions that we provided:

Cradle Stabilization: Before loading, the coil drum was lifted and secured into a custom-engineered cradle. This ensured the cylindrical object remained static and stable throughout the 118 km journey.
Height Mitigation: By utilizing the drop deck hydraulic axles, we minimized the total running height, ensuring safe passage under critical electrical infrastructure.
Adverse Weather Navigation: The transport occurred during a period of rain, fog, and muddy terrain. Our operators utilized the hydraulic suspension to maintain traction and stability on slippery, unpaved sections near the site.

How frequently is Heavy Project Cargo moved to Jafza?

Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza) is the logistics heartbeat of the Middle East. As home to major players like Dubai Petroleum, the movement of heavy machinery, turbines, and cable drums is a frequent necessity.

However, moving Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) from Abu Dhabi to Jafza involves crossing emirate borders, which requires specific permits and adherence to strict highway safety regulations.

UAE Energy Logistics Drivers:

Infrastructure Upgrades: Continuous development in the UAE’s power grid requires the movement of massive cable drums and transformers.
Oil & Gas Operations: Companies like Dubai Petroleum require just-in-time delivery of critical assets to maintain offshore and onshore operations.
Inter-Emirate Connectivity: The industrial corridor between Abu Dhabi and Dubai sees frequent heavy-lift traffic, necessitating expert route planning to avoid disrupting commuter traffic.

UAE Energy Logistics Drivers:

The success of this project was defined by our ability to adapt to environmental factors and strict vertical clearance limits.

This successful delivery to Dubai Petroleum highlights Three Lines Shipping’s ability to handle high-stakes logistics under pressure. With over 20 years of specialized experience in heavy lift and project logistics, we ensure that complex cargo, regardless of shape, weight, or weather conditions, arrives safely.

Frequently Asked Questions on ODC Logistics

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