STEX Commissions France’s First Faymonville FlexMAX 4+7 with Tower Adapters for Wind Energy Transport

30-Second Takeaway

STEX, based in Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, has reached a major milestone with the commissioning of France’s first Faymonville FlexMAX 4+7 self-steering combination equipped with tower adapters. Designed for demanding wind energy transport applications, the configuration delivers enhanced maneuverability, stability, and autonomous loading capability for transporting wind turbine tower sections.

First FlexMAX 4+7 with Tower Adapters in France

With the commissioning of a Faymonville FlexMAX 4+7 self-steering combination, French transport company STEX has set a new benchmark in heavy and special transport.

The configuration, equipped with tower adapters, represents a first in France and significantly expands STEX’s capabilities in supporting complex wind energy projects.

STEX is based in Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, approximately 23 kilometres east of Orléans, and specializes in demanding heavy transport operations.

Self-Steering Design Enhances Maneuverability

The FlexMAX 4+7 features a self-steering concept that enables precise maneuverability, even in tight curves and challenging topographical conditions commonly encountered on wind farm access routes.

This steering capability supports safer transport through:

• Narrow rural roads

• Complex intersections

• Uneven and sloped terrain

The result is improved route flexibility and reduced operational risk during transport of oversized wind components.

Tower Adapters Designed for Wind Turbine Sections

The tower adapters, developed specifically for transporting wind turbine tower sections, are a key element of the configuration.

They offer a large vertical stroke of approximately 1,800 mm, allowing road irregularities to be compensated efficiently. This design also enables autonomous loading and unloading operations, reducing reliance on additional lifting equipment and improving site efficiency.

Unique Hydraulic Suspension Improves Stability

The 7-axle rear self-steering unit is equipped with a hydraulic suspension system that Faymonville describes as unique on the market.

This system delivers:

• High convoy stability

• Easier crossing of obstacles

• Improved performance on side slopes

• Enhanced operating comfort

The configuration also improves operator safety, supported by a double-redundant steering system that increases reliability during transport operations.

Supporting the Growing Wind Energy Sector

By integrating this innovative transport combination into its fleet, STEX continues to invest in meeting the growing logistical demands of renewable energy projects.

The FlexMAX 4+7 with tower adapters positions the company to handle larger components, more complex routes, and tighter delivery schedules associated with modern wind turbine installations.

Collaboration with Berroyer and Faymonville

The success of the project was supported by close collaboration with Berroyer, STEX’s technical and commercial partner, working alongside Faymonville’s product management team.

The cooperation ensured that the transport solution was precisely tailored to the operational challenges of wind energy logistics.

Through this project, Faymonville reinforces its role as a provider of complete, application-specific transport solutions, particularly for the wind energy sector.

About STEX

STEX is a French heavy and special transport company based in Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, near Orléans. The company specializes in complex transport operations for industrial, infrastructure, and renewable energy projects, with a focus on precision, safety, and technical capability.

About Faymonville

Faymonville is a global manufacturer of specialized transport solutions, including modular transporters, semi low-loaders, and self-steering combinations. The company is recognized for engineering tailor-made solutions for oversized and heavy transport applications across construction, energy, and industrial markets.

Website: https://www.faymonville.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the FlexMAX 4+7 configuration unique in France?

It is the first self-steering FlexMAX 4+7 combination in France equipped with tower adapters, specifically designed for wind turbine transport.

What are the benefits of the tower adapters?

The adapters allow transport of wind turbine tower sections and offer a vertical stroke of approximately 1,800 mm, compensating for road irregularities and enabling autonomous loading and unloading.

How does the self-steering system improve transport operations?

Self-steering axles provide greater maneuverability, improved safety, and better route accessibility in tight or uneven terrain.

Why is this configuration important for wind energy projects?

Modern wind turbines require transport of large, heavy components over challenging routes. The FlexMAX 4+7 provides the stability, flexibility, and safety needed for these demanding logistics.