361-551-6023

How mobile are Mobile Turbines?

In today’s fast-paced energy market, the ability to deliver power quickly and efficiently is critical. Mobile turbines have emerged as a key solution for providing rapid, on-demand power. But just how mobile are these turbines, and what are the factors that determine their mobility?

What Are Mobile Turbines?

Mobile turbines are essentially gas turbines mounted on trailers, designed to be transported to various locations and set up quickly to deliver power. These turbines can be up and running in a remarkably short amount of time, providing a flexible power solution for situations ranging from emergency outages to remote site operations. The concept of mobility here is tied not only to the ability to transport the turbine but also to how rapidly it can be deployed and begin generating power. See a video of this in action below

Types of Mobile Turbines: Aeroderivative vs. Industrial

Mobile turbines generally fall into two categories: aeroderivative and industrial turbines.

  • Aeroderivative Turbines: These turbines are derived from jet engines, making them much lighter per megawatt (MW) of output compared to their industrial counterparts. This lightweight nature allows for a higher power density on a transportable trailer, making them ideal for mobile applications. Aeroderivative turbines are typically the go-to choice for mobile power because they pack the most power into the smallest and most transportable package.

  • Industrial Turbines: While traditionally heavier and bulkier, industrial turbines are increasingly being adapted for mobile use. One of the main reasons for this shift is their emissions advantages, as they can often be configured to meet stricter environmental standards. However, due to their weight, industrial turbines cannot deliver as much power on a single trailer as aeroderivative turbines, making them less mobile in the traditional sense.

The Limits of Mobility: Weight, Axles, and Trailer Length

The mobility of a any power solution is not just about its ability to be moved; it’s about how efficiently it can be transported. This efficiency is governed by several factors:

  • Weight: Heavier turbines require more robust trailers, which in turn might limit the amount of power that can be transported. Aeroderivative turbines have an advantage here, as their lighter design allows for more power per trailer.

  • Axles: The number of axles on a trailer is directly related to the weight it can carry. More axles allow for heavier loads, but they also add to the complexity and cost of transportation.

  • Trailer Length: The length of the trailer determines how much equipment can be transported in a single trip. However, longer trailers can be more challenging to maneuver, especially in tight spaces, which can limit their deployment options.

The Growing Trend: Trailerizing Industrial Turbines

Despite their weight, some industrial turbines are now being adapted for mobile use. This trend is largely driven by the need to meet more stringent emissions regulations. Industrial turbines can offer superior emissions performance, making them attractive for use in areas with tight environmental controls. However, the trade-off is that their heavier weight and larger size mean that not as much power can be packed onto a single trailer, reducing their overall mobility.

Speed of Deployment: Turbines vs. Other Technologies

One of the biggest advantages of mobile turbines over other power generation technologies is the speed at which they can be deployed. For example:

  • 35 MW Models: These larger mobile turbines can be installed and operational in as little as 12 hours. This rapid deployment is crucial in emergency situations where power is needed immediately.

  • 5 MW Models: Even smaller mobile turbines can be set up in as little as 4 hours, offering a quick solution for smaller power needs.

In comparison, other technologies like diesel engines or natural gas engines are much heavier per kW. require multiple lifts, significantly more transport operations, and extensive additional equipment such as voltage transformers and cabling. This not only increases the time required to set up but also demands more personnel, making turbines a far more efficient choice for mobile power needs.

Applications for mobile turbines

Mobile turbines are versatile power solutions that can be rapidly deployed across a wide range of applications. Their mobility, speed of setup, and flexibility make them invaluable in several key scenarios:

  • Electric Fracturing (Frac Operations): One of the most demanding applications for mobile turbines is in electric fracturing, or “e-frac,” operations. In these scenarios, power needs to be both high and quickly deployable. Mobile turbines excel here because they can be set up and torn down in less than two days, aligning perfectly with the fast-paced nature of fracking operations. The ability to move quickly from one site to another without extensive downtime is critical, and mobile turbines provide the necessary power with minimal delay.

  • Emergency Power: When disasters strike—whether natural or man-made—restoring power quickly is often a matter of life and death. Mobile turbines are ideally suited for emergency power needs due to their rapid installation and connection times. In crisis situations, a 35 MW mobile turbine can be up and running in just 12 hours, providing essential power to critical infrastructure, hospitals, or communities. This speed and flexibility make mobile turbines a key asset in emergency response efforts.

  • Temporary Power Without Air Permits: One of the unique advantages of mobile generation in general is their ability to bypass certain regulatory hurdles. By being on wheels, mobile turbines can often avoid the need for air permits for temporary power needs of up to 12 months. This is particularly useful in industries or locations where obtaining air permits is time-consuming or difficult. Mobile turbines can be quickly deployed to meet short- to medium-term power demands without the regulatory delays that stationary power plants might face.

These applications highlight the adaptability and efficiency of mobile turbines, making them a preferred choice for industries and scenarios where power needs to be delivered quickly, reliably, and with minimal regulatory burden.

 

Conclusion

Mobile turbines offer an unparalleled combination of power density, speed of deployment, and flexibility. While the trend towards trailerizing industrial turbines reflects a growing emphasis on emissions performance, the trade-offs in terms of mobility are significant. Ultimately, when it comes to delivering large amounts of power quickly, mobile turbines remain the most effective and efficient option available today.

 

 

About Life Cycle Power

Life Cycle Power is a provider of backup, bridging and permanent on site power solutions across the U.S. With one of the first and largest fleets of mobile power generators utilizing advanced turbine technology, they have made significant strides in electrifying the oilfield and many other industries. 

For more information about how to solve your power problems contact them on 

361-551-6023 

yourpowerneeds@lifecyclepower.com

Click here
Linkedin Facebook Youtube Instagram Tiktok

© 2025 Life Cycle Power. All Rights Reserved.

Linkedin Facebook Youtube Twitter Instagram Tiktok

Privacy Policy

Uniforms