Collett & Sons has expanded its specialist wind turbine transport fleet with the purchase of a new Goldhofer FTV850 blade lifter system.
The latest addition marks the company’s second blade lifter, enhancing its capability to move next-generation wind turbine components with greater efficiency.
Built by Goldhofer, the FTV850 system comprises four main elements: an 850 tonne-metre lifting module, 8-axle split lines, 6 driven axle lines and a 530BHP ADDRIVE 2.0 power pack.
The lifting module enables blades to be raised from 0 to 60 degrees and rotated a full 360°, allowing operators to adapt to wind speed, direction and terrain. It can safely transport blades up to 100 metres long, meeting the demands of larger modern turbines.
The system’s split axle lines can be configured between 3 and 4 metres wide to improve load stability and weight distribution, while the powered axles provide enhanced traction and manoeuvrability on difficult routes.
Collett expects to deploy the new blade lifter in February 2026 for turbine deliveries to the 308MW Sanquhar II wind farm in Dumfries & Galloway and East Ayrshire.
Collett said both blade lifters will operate in convoy to ensure safe and efficient component transport for the project.
Jack Collett, Renewables Director at Collett & Sons Ltd, commented: “With the arrival of our second Blade Lifter, we’re able to transport larger turbine blades more efficiently and safely than ever before. Operating both trailers together provides the flexibility and capacity our clients need on complex renewable energy projects.”