Goldhofer PST/SL-E Split Widening Makes Americas Debut

30 Second Takeaway

Goldhofer presented its PST/SL-E Split with Widening System in the Americas for the first time at CONEXPO 2026 in Las Vegas. Designed for oversized and heavy industrial loads, the self propelled modular transporter can be widened hydraulically from 3,000 to 5,100 millimetres, with an optional maximum width of 6,800 millimetres. The system provides an axle load capacity of 45 tonnes and is intended to improve lateral stability when moving tall loads or components with high centres of gravity. The CONEXPO configuration was paired with Goldhofer’s new 250 kW E PowerPack.

PST/SL-E Split Widening Arrives in the Americas

Goldhofer has completed the first Americas presentation of its PST/SL-E Split with Widening System following the equipment’s international debut at bauma 2025. The modular transporter was displayed at CONEXPO 2026 as part of Goldhofer’s heavy transport equipment range for the North American market. Its principal feature is a hydraulically adjustable vehicle width that allows the transporter to be configured according to the load, route and required level of lateral stability.

The system is designed for applications involving:

• Industrial modules

• Transformers

• Pressure vessels

• Power generation equipment

• Petrochemical components

• Offshore structures

• Shipyard loads

• Machinery

• Fabricated steel structures

• Loads with high centres of gravity

The adjustable platform gives transport engineers another method of matching the equipment footprint to the characteristics of the cargo.

Width Adjustable From 3,000 to 5,100 Millimetres

In its standard widening configuration, the PST/SL-E Split can be adjusted from 3,000 to 5,100 millimetres, equivalent to approximately 118.11 to 200.78 inches.

An optional arrangement increases the maximum width to 6,800 millimetres, or approximately 267.72 inches. The width can be selected according to the operational requirements of the transport.

A narrower setup can be useful when passing through restricted areas or preparing the equipment for mobilisation. A wider configuration increases the distance between the outer wheel groups, providing a broader support base beneath the load. The widening system is hydraulically operated, reducing the amount of manual reconfiguration required when changing the transport width. Any selected configuration remains subject to the approved load plan, axle loading, ground capacity, route clearance and local transport requirements.

Wider Footprint Supports High Centre of Gravity Loads

Loads with high centres of gravity require particular attention during heavy transport operations. The higher the centre of gravity sits above the supporting platform, the greater the effect that lateral movement, road crossfall, acceleration, braking and changes in direction can have on stability. Increasing the transporter’s width creates a larger support footprint beneath the cargo. This can improve the relationship between the load’s centre of gravity and the supporting axle groups. The widening system is intended to support the movement of tall and oversized loads where lateral stability is a primary planning consideration.

Transport engineers must still evaluate:

• Total load weight

• Centre of gravity height

• Centre of gravity position

• Axle loading

• Platform deflection

• Ground pressure

• Road crossfall

• Gradient

• Turning forces

• Travel speed

• Wind conditions

• Load securing arrangements

Changing the transporter width contributes to stability, but it does not replace the engineering required for the complete transport operation.

Split Design Creates a Flexible Transport Platform

The Split configuration allows the PST/SL-E platform to be separated and arranged to suit different transport requirements. This provides greater flexibility than a platform with a permanently fixed overall width. The system can be adapted around the dimensions, support positions and centre of gravity of the load. This is particularly useful for components that are too wide, too tall or too irregular to be supported effectively by a conventional modular transporter arrangement.

The split configuration can also create open space between the transporter sections where the load geometry requires support at defined outer positions. The equipment arrangement must be engineered as a complete system, including the modules, widening components, load support structure, power supply and electronic control system.

Axle Load Capacity Reaches 45 Tonnes

The PST/SL-E Split with Widening System provides a stated axle load capacity of 45 tonnes.

Axle load capacity describes the maximum permitted loading across an individual axle line under the applicable operating conditions. The total payload available for a transport depends on more than multiplying the number of axle lines by the nominal axle capacity.

The calculation must also account for:

• Transporter tare weight

• Load distribution

• Centre of gravity position

• Support structure weight

• PowerPack weight

• Coupling equipment

• Hydraulic configuration

• Dynamic loading

• Ground bearing capacity

• Applicable safety factors

The ability to carry 45 tonnes per axle line allows transport engineers to move substantial loads using a calculated number of modular axle lines. Adding axle lines can distribute the combined load across a larger contact area, helping manage pavement, quay and site loading restrictions.

Self Propelled Operation Supports Precise Movement

The PST/SL-E is a self propelled heavy duty modular transporter. A PowerPack supplies energy to the hydraulic drive, steering and suspension systems, allowing the transporter to move without a conventional tractor unit. Self propelled operation is suited to industrial sites, ports, fabrication yards and construction areas where large loads must be moved at controlled speeds.

The system can support movements such as:

• Straight line travel

• Controlled turning

• Lateral repositioning

• Alignment with foundations

• Movement beneath gantries

• Roll on and roll off operations

• Final installation positioning

Precise steering and speed control are particularly important during the final stages of a transport, when a component must be aligned with supports, foundations or other project equipment.

New E PowerPack Provides 250 kW

At CONEXPO, the widening system was displayed with Goldhofer’s new E PowerPack.

The electric power unit has a rated output of 250 kW, equivalent to approximately 340 horsepower. It supplies power directly to the transporter’s hydraulic and control systems, supporting controlled movement during heavy industrial transport operations. An electric PowerPack can be used where project requirements place increased emphasis on reducing local exhaust emissions and operating noise.

These environments can include:

• Indoor production facilities

• Manufacturing plants

• Enclosed fabrication buildings

• Tunnels

• Urban construction sites

• Ports

• Energy facilities

• Sites with emissions restrictions

Available operating time depends on the selected battery configuration, load, route, travel speed, ground conditions and use of the hydraulic systems. The E PowerPack provides an alternative drive source for compatible Goldhofer self propelled modular equipment without changing the engineering requirements applying to the transporter and load.

Direct Power Transmission Supports Final Positioning

Goldhofer states that the E PowerPack and PST/SL-E combination provides direct power transmission for precise load movement. Controlled low speed operation is important when positioning a heavy component within restricted tolerances.

During final placement, even a small difference in platform position can affect alignment with:

• Foundations

• Support stools

• Structural bearings

• Installation rails

• Jacking systems

• Mechanical connections

• Plant interfaces

The transporter’s control and hydraulic systems allow the operator to make incremental movements as the load approaches its final position. Transporter positioning must remain coordinated with the project’s engineering team, spotters and other personnel responsible for monitoring clearances and load behaviour.

Redesigned Remote Control

The PST/SL-E Split with Widening System incorporates a redesigned remote control.

Remote operation allows the transporter operator to select a viewing position that provides a clearer perspective of the load, travel route and surrounding area. This can be valuable when the transporter is carrying a large component that obstructs visibility from one side of the equipment. The operator can reposition while remaining within the approved operating area and maintaining communication with the transport team.

Remote control does not eliminate the need for:

• Spotters

• Defined communication procedures

• Exclusion zones

• Emergency stop arrangements

• Route supervision

• Clear operator responsibilities

For large or irregular loads, several team members can be positioned around the transporter to monitor critical clearances while one authorised operator controls the movement.

Ultra Bright LED Display Presents Operating Information

The control system includes an ultra bright LED display designed to remain readable during outdoor operations. The display provides the operator with information required to monitor the transporter during movement.

Clear presentation of operating data is important because self propelled modular transporters combine several electronically controlled systems, including steering, hydraulic suspension and drive functions. The redesigned interface is intended to provide operating information in a format that can be reviewed quickly while the transport is moving.

The information presented by the control system supports the approved transport procedure but does not replace direct observation of the vehicle, load or route.

Integrated Inclinometer Monitors Platform Angle

An integrated inclinometer allows the operating team to monitor the angle of the transporter. This provides an important reference when the equipment is travelling across gradients, changes in road elevation or surfaces with crossfall. A change in platform angle can affect the relationship between the transporter and the load’s centre of gravity.

For high centre of gravity components, monitoring inclination can help the team identify changes that require adjustment to travel speed, steering or hydraulic suspension.

The inclinometer forms one part of the wider control process. Permitted longitudinal and lateral angles must be established during transport engineering before the operation begins.

Hydraulic Suspension Supports Load Distribution

Self propelled modular transporters use hydraulic suspension to distribute load across the axle lines and accommodate changes in the supporting surface. The hydraulic system allows the platform height and axle loading to be managed within the approved operating range.

Hydraulic stroke can also support loading and unloading operations by raising or lowering the platform relative to support stools or foundations.

During transport, the suspension system works with the electronic steering and drive controls to maintain the selected vehicle configuration. Before movement begins, the transport team must confirm hydraulic group settings, suspension pressures, platform level and load distribution.

Widening Changes the Transport Planning Envelope

The ability to expand the platform width creates additional options, but it also changes the space required for the transport.

A wider configuration can affect:

• Route clearances

• Lane occupation

• Turning envelopes

• Escort requirements

• Permit conditions

• Bridge crossings

• Gate access

• Available working area

• Interaction with roadside structures

• Transporter mobilisation

Transport planners must balance the stability benefits of a wider footprint against the available width along the route. Some operations can use a narrow configuration through restricted sections before widening the platform in a prepared operating area, subject to the approved engineering procedure and load condition.

Americas Market Places Emphasis on Local Support

Goldhofer said discussions at CONEXPO highlighted demand for equipment that combines technical performance, operational reliability and access to regional support. Heavy transport systems can remain in operation for many years, making parts availability, diagnostics, service and operator training important considerations when equipment is selected.

Goldhofer Inc. supports the company’s customers in North America through its regional organisation. Goldhofer reported that its local service capabilities were a recurring subject during discussions with transport companies at CONEXPO. The manufacturer said its strategy includes continued investment in North American structures and customer support.

CONEXPO Followed bauma 2025 Debut

The PST/SL-E Split with Widening System was introduced at bauma 2025 in Munich, Germany. Goldhofer used live demonstrations during the exhibition to show the hydraulic widening function, steering control and operation with the E PowerPack. The system’s presentation at CONEXPO 2026 brought the equipment to an Americas audience for the first time.

The Las Vegas exhibition provided heavy transport operators from North, Central and South America with an opportunity to examine the platform and discuss how its adjustable width could be applied to regional projects.

Applications Across Industrial Transport

The widening system is intended for projects where heavy weight, large dimensions or a high centre of gravity create additional transport challenges.

Potential applications include:

• Moving transformers within substations

• Transporting petrochemical vessels

• Relocating industrial machinery

• Handling power generation modules

• Moving ship sections in fabrication yards

• Transporting offshore components

• Positioning bridge sections

• Moving mining equipment

• Handling prefabricated plant modules

• Supporting nuclear and conventional energy projects

Every application requires a configuration developed for the specific load and route. The modular design allows axle lines and supporting equipment to be selected according to the required capacity and load distribution.

About Goldhofer

Goldhofer AG is a German manufacturer of specialised transport and airport equipment headquartered in Memmingen, Germany. The company traces its origins to a forge established in 1705 and has developed into an international manufacturer of heavy transport systems. Goldhofer employs more than 1,000 people and operates through facilities and subsidiaries in Europe, North America, India and the Middle East.

Its operations are divided into two principal business areas:

• Transport Technology

• Airport Technology

The Transport Technology division manufactures trailers, semitrailers, heavy duty modular transporters and equipment for long, oversized and exceptionally heavy loads.

Its equipment is used across:

• Heavy haulage

• Construction

• Energy

• Wind power

• Mining

• Mechanical and plant engineering

• Petrochemical projects

• Ports and shipyards

• Industrial manufacturing

Goldhofer’s Airport Technology division produces aircraft tractors, cargo tractors and aircraft

recovery systems. The company is foundation owned and supports customers through a global sales, service and spare parts network.

Company website: www.goldhofer.com

PST/SL-E product page: Goldhofer PST/SL-E

About Goldhofer Inc.

Goldhofer Inc. is the manufacturer’s North American subsidiary, providing sales, technical service, spare parts and customer support across the region. The organisation supports Goldhofer transport equipment used in heavy haul, energy, industrial, construction, mining, port and specialised transport applications. Its regional presence gives operators access to local product expertise and service support for modular transport systems operating in the Americas.

North American information: Goldhofer North America

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PST/SL-E Split with Widening System?

It is a self propelled modular transporter with a hydraulically adjustable width for moving oversized and heavy industrial loads.

Where did the system make its Americas debut?

Goldhofer presented it in the Americas for the first time at CONEXPO 2026 in Las Vegas.

When was the system originally introduced?

The PST/SL-E Split with Widening System debuted internationally at bauma 2025 in Munich.

What is its standard width range?

The transporter can be adjusted from 3,000 to 5,100 millimetres, or approximately 118.11 to 200.78 inches.

What is the maximum optional width?

An optional configuration increases the width to 6,800 millimetres, or approximately 267.72 inches.

What is its axle load capacity?

The PST/SL-E Split Widening provides a stated axle load capacity of 45 tonnes.

Why is the transporter widened?

A wider configuration creates a larger support footprint, helping improve lateral stability when moving tall loads or components with high centres of gravity.

What PowerPack was displayed at CONEXPO?

The system was shown with Goldhofer’s new 250 kW E PowerPack.

What operator controls are included?

The system includes a redesigned remote control, an ultra bright LED display and an integrated inclinometer.

What does the inclinometer do?

The inclinometer displays the transporter’s angle, helping operators monitor the platform when travelling over gradients or surfaces with crossfall.

What industries can use the system?

Applications cover energy, petrochemical, industrial manufacturing, offshore, shipbuilding, mining, infrastructure and other heavy transport sectors.