One of the basic infrastructures for handling merchandise and ships are all types of port cranes, especially in commercial ports where loading, unloading, storage, and unloading are key actions for the development and operation of these ports.

The cranes are used for loading between the port and the ship, in order to organize and stack it, but also for the stranding of ships, dry storage, ship repair, or auxiliary operations.

The latter, depending on the activities that must be developed and available spaces can be installed in different structures (for example, on the top of a telescopic gangway of a column and/or tower type), and be equipped with different accessories or ranges of scope; they can also have a wide variety of accessories, such as winches, hydraulic handling mechanism, remote controls, load limiter, and counterbalance valve, among others.

Container crane

In a modern port environment, reliability and productivity are the key parameters.

The Liebherr container-loading cranes (STS) reach an availability rate of up to 99.6% during actual operation on the ship.

Gantry cranes for container loading are designed specifically for each client according to their specific requirements, with different costs and characteristic data in each case and with sizes ranging from the Panamax class to the largest Megamax cranes.

Safe workloads of 40 to 120 tons are possible through individual, double or tandem loading.

Container crane specifications

• Its structure is made of high tensile steel, with the main mast in the lattice and the pen-based on rectangular hollow profiles
• Point of articulation unique in its class
• Movement of simultaneous activation of the gantry, the carriage, and the lifting mechanism.
• Current recovery
• Powerful TLS system and anti-hook technology
• Trolley with own drive
• Rigid and robust structure, ideal for automation
• Direct drive displacement systems
• Drive systems are developed and manufactured.
• Renowned European suppliers

Types of cranes used in ports

• High power cranes with reduced own weight and low center of gravity
• Drive systems
• Productivity superior to other alternative approaches
• High reliability and short downtime
• Rigid and stable structure
• Better performance during operation with high wind speed
• Exact positioning of the hoisting frame
• Cushioning of the pendulum through multiple cable passages by the pulley
• An optimum level of comfort for the operator thanks to the ergonomic cab and the original design of the point of articulation
• Precise and simultaneous movements of the three axes
• Low life cycle costs

Options

• Machine truck
• Profiling of batteries on the ship
• Detection of container numbers
• Systems of positioning on the truck/trailer/ container
• Lashing platform
• Automation | Semiautomatization
• Emergency drives for lifting mechanism / carriage / boom
• Power cable or tow cable
• Anti-collision systems,
• Remote access through a standard interface
• Tester cabin
• Stable in the curves
• Hatch covers

Container crane height

• The after-sales service network reaches the whole world.
• Complete training of operators and technicians, both in the place of use and in our plant.
• Since 1958, modern self-built facilities in Ireland, dedicated to development and production.
• Experienced and highly qualified employees for customer service.
• All the responsibility (ie static studies, mechanics, electricity, production, commissioning and after-sales service) lies with Liebherr, which avoids interfaces and incompatibilities problems.
• Crane sizes and technical data

Panamax

• Reach Up to 38 m
• Number of containers on the cover Up to 13
• Lifting height of 30 m
• Safe workload From 40 to 50 t. in single lift 65 t in the double lift
• Lifting speed 50/125 m / min
• Carriage travel speed 150 to 180 m / min
• Movement speed of the crane is 45 m / min
• Wheel load From 30 to 45 t / m *

Post Panamax

• Scope Up to 45 m
• Number of containers on the cover Up to 16
• Lifting height 35 m
• Safe work load From 40 to 50 t. in single lift 65 t in the double lift
• Lifting speed 60/150 m / min
• Travel speed of the car From 180 to 210 m / min
• Movement speed of the crane 45 m / min
• Wheel load From 40 to 55 t / m *

Super post Panamax

• Scope Up to 53 m
• Number of containers on the cover Up to 19
• Lifting height 40 m
• Safe work load From 40 to 50 t. in single lift 65 t in a double lift 100 t in tandem lift
• Lifting speed From 70 to 175 m / min
• Carriage travel speed 210 to 240 m / min
• Movement speed of the crane 45 m / min
• Wheel load From 60 to 70 t / m *

Megamax

• The scope from 53 m
• Number of containers on deck 20 or +
• Lifting height 40 m or more
• Safe work load From 40 to 50 t. in single lift 65 t in a double lift 100 t in tandem lift
• Lifting speed From 90 to 180 m / min
• Carriage travel speed 210 to 240 m / min
• Movement speed of the crane 45 m / min
• Wheel load From 70 to 80 t / m *

Stacking crane

• Reach 30 to 40 m
• Number of containers on deck 13 or +
• Lifting height From 20 to 25 m
• Safe work load From 40 to 50 t in single lift 65 t in the double lift
• Lifting speed 50 to 125 m / min
• Travel speed of the trolley 180 m / min
• Travel speed of the crane From 100 to 140 m / min
• Wheel load From 40 to 50 t / m *

* Wheel load based on the use of eight wheels on each corner

How tall are container cranes?

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Container Straddle Carrier: The globalization combined with the success of containerization has brought about tremendous increases in the transportation of containers across the world. This leads to an increasing size of container ships which causes higher demands on seaport container terminals and their equipment.

In this situation, the success of a seaport container terminal resides in a fast transshipment process with reduced costs. For these reasons, it is necessary to optimize the terminal processes.

Straddle crane

what is a container straddle carrier? A straddle carrier or straddle truck is a freight-carrying vehicle that carries its load underneath by “straddling” it, rather than carrying it on top like a conventional truck. The advantage of the straddle carrier is its ability to load and unload without the assistance of cranes or forklifts. The lifting apparatus under the carrier is operated by the driver without any outside assistance and without leaving the driver’s seat.

Container straddle carrier

The container straddle carrier is a cost-effective and flexible container handling solution. It offers complete independence and flexibility when moving containers and similar oversized products on a site.

Users can position the container wherever they require for efficient stuffing and de-stuffing. It takes just three minutes to load a container from the ground onto a vehicle and it reduces on-site congestion for a safer working environment.

It has a 35-tonne capacity and is diesel-powered with an LP gas engine option. It comes with synchronized hydraulic steering and a 2-wheel hydrostatic drive. The superelastic/solid soft tires allow for operation in harsh weather conditions.

Container straddle carrier specifications:

• It comes with front and rear independent side shift and is suitable for all standard ISO containers.
• It has a low-level operator cab with excellent 360º visibility from the driver position. It eliminates trailers waiting to be loaded and unloaded.
• Optional extras include air conditioning and a fully enclosed cabin. Overall dimensions can be customized to handle non-ISO containers.
• The Carrier has lower ground pressure when fully loaded than reach stackers or container handling forklifts, making it ideal for operations on poor, uneven surfaces like railway tracks.

Mini straddle carrier

These machines are usually quite large BUT smaller versions of straddle carriers (Mini Straddle Carriers) have been developed for end-users who need to move containers around their yard or depot. For instance, a company may produce a product for a customer and they must load that product into a container for delivery.

Container Straddle Carrier …

Nowhere near the size of the machines in port terminals, the Mini Straddle Carriers have been built specifically to work within smaller spaces to improve efficiencies and reduce reliance on transport companies. Mini Straddle Carriers are not for the ports and harbors, they are for the end-user.

Container transport service

A Mini Straddle Carrier assists the end-user to improve their efficiencies on-site by reducing reliance on a transport company and therefore improving the productivity of yard operations. A Mini Straddle Carrier in this environment allows a company to independently move containers while empty or full without a transport company’s assistance. This allows for the separation of warehousing operations and transport operations ensuring a continued and extremely efficient flow of production. Mini Straddle Carriers are not for the ports and harbors, they are for the end-user.

Straddle carrier operator

A straddle carrier is a vehicle for use in port terminals and intermodal yards which is used for stacking and moving containers. Straddle carrier operators pick and carry containers while straddling their load and connecting to the top lifting points via a container spreader.

These machines have the ability to stack containers up to 4 high and are capable of relatively low speeds (up to 30 km/h) with a laden container. The workers that use this machinery sit at the very top, facing the middle to see behind and in front of them. Straddle carriers can lift up to 60 tons which equals up to 2 full containers.

Straddle carrier specifications

Straddle carriers are by far the most simple and effective system today available in the market for different reasons. First of all, it can do all the jobs and can be easily managed by Terminal Operation Systems with great savings in software management packages.

Straddle carriers have higher flexibility compared to RTG or RMG handling systems since one can always decide to deploy the right number of units to handle, the number of containers one has to handle and they can be sent to all corners of the terminal.

What is a container straddle carrier?

They have higher productivity rates compared to terminal tractors since they can lift containers off the ground without the need of an STS operator and they can stack straight in the yard without the need of waiting for the availability of another machine (i.e. RTG or RMG).

They have higher selectivity compared to again RTGs or RMGs since they can stack up to two or three high max, and can sort out a specific container in less time due to the higher traveling speed.

Straddle carrier manufacturers

Container Straddle Carrier:

Combilift straddle carrier

Combilift is the largest global manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts and an acknowledged leader in long load handling solutions. More than 45,000 units have been sold in over 85 countries since Combilift was established in 1998.

The Combilift Straddle Carrier is a cost-effective and flexible container handling solution. It offers complete independence and flexibility when moving containers and similar oversized products on a site.

Konecranes straddle carrier

Konecranes Noell Straddle Carriers are powered by eco-efficient diesel engines that comply with the latest applicable emissions regulations in the country of use.

Konecranes Noell Straddle Carriers are known for their excellent maneuverability, high speed, and reliability. They do not need yard infrastructure, so initial investment costs are low.

They are available in different sizes, stacking containers 1-over-2 or 1-over-3, ideally suited for step-by-step enlargement of container terminals as required. They are also now available as automated versions.

Hyster straddle carrier

Hyster® is an American success story that dates to the start of the Great Depression. One customer, one truck, one solution at a time, the company grew. Before long, the legendary quality and durability of Hyster trucks earned it a reputation for toughness that spread around the world. Today, Hyster is known as a strong partner creating innovative materials handling solutions for customers around the globe.

Liebherr straddle carrier

The Liebherr straddle carrier has been designed incorporating new and innovative design features. The resulting machine delivers excellent container handling, high productivity, and reliability as well as low maintenance costs and fuel consumption.

Container Straddle Carrier

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An offshore crane is defined as a pedestal-mounted elevating and rotating lifting device used to transfer materials and personnel to or from marine vessels, barges, and structures, a standard used to design and manufacture offshore cranes.

These offshore applications include bottom-supported, floating platform and ship-hulled vessels used in production and drilling operations, shipboard applications and heavy-lift applications.

Acquaints offshore personnel with the parts and functions of pedestal cranes, including prime movers and transmissions.

Discusses wire rope and slings, safe load rigging and handling, safe hoisting procedures, and hand signals.

Orientation for Offshore Crane Operations

Offshore oil and gas industry

The offshore oil and gas industry was established in 1954 with the first fixed platform installed near Morgan City, Louisiana in the Gulf of Mexico.

The only cranes available for use on these early platforms were existing land-based construction machines with a tonnage naming convention based on maximum structural capacity, i.e. “100-ton crane.

Unlike land-based cranes, offshore cranes are fixed structures incapable of moving with their loads. However, customers often make inquiries along the lines of, “We need a 100-ton crane”. The next question becomes, “What is the definition of a 100-ton offshore crane?”

Because the offshore crane is a fixed structure, the distance from the crane at which the load is lifted is just as important as the magnitude of the load.

In addition, lifting a load off a supply boat pitching in waves has the potential to subject the offshore crane to impact loads that would not be present when lifting off of the deck of the crane’s host facility.

Consequently, the load capacity for supply boat lifts (offboard) is generally lower than those associated with lifting off the deck of the facility (onboard).

An offshore crane’s capacity also depends on factors the purchaser must supply to the crane manufacturer. These include the type of structure upon which the crane is mounted (i.e. bottom-supported, semi-submersible, ship-hulled, etc.), the environmental conditions in the platform’s location, and the load’s location in relation to the crane.

Offshore crane types

Offshore cranes can also be classified by the duty cycle or the frequency of their use. The duty cycles include:

• Production Duty: annual operating time of 200 hours, typically on bottom-supported production platforms
• Intermediate Duty: annual operating time of 2,000 hours, typically on bottom-supported or floating platforms with temporary rigs
• Drilling Duty: annual operating time of 5,000 hours, typically on MODUs or floating structures that operate full time

Board offshore cranes

The Board offshore crane is a conventional slew bearing crane with a cable luffing mechanism and can be powered electro-hydraulically or diesel-hydraulically.

Compact Board Offshore Crane

It is an ideal solution for maintenance and supply work wherever the operating radius and space on deck is restricted. In general, the crane can be used for multipurpose applications on platforms such as fixed platforms, jack-ups, and tension leg installations. Crane replacement supplements this scope. The series includes up to three system sizes.

Offshore heavy lift crane

The heavy-lift crane is designed especially for the installation of wind farms and for the oil and gas as well as the decommissioning sector. The main characteristic of the HLC is its compact design. The HLC 295000 has a pedestal diameter of only 17 meters, and so does not require much space on deck. Despite this small footprint, it packs a punch and can lift up to 5,000 tonnes at more than 30 meters of outreach. This combination of compact design, high power, and very low weight.

Crane around the leg

Specially designed as a crane around the leg, it facilitates space-saving positioning on the ship despite the size of the crane. The parallel jib makes it possible to park the jib over one of the ship’s front legs. Positioning the crane in this way prevents blocking of the free area on deck, which can be used to load the ship.

Mast type crane

The classic principle of the slewing bearing, otherwise known as the king post, is suitable primarily for customers who prefer solutions for non-metallic slewing bearings. The possibility of providing different sized versions and certification for explosive areas enhances the deployment spectrum of the mast-type crane (MTC). The crane can be driven electro-hydraulically or diesel-hydraulically and is used chiefly in the area of oil and gas extraction.

Luffing crane

A weight-optimized and compact design with a load-bearing capacity of up to 100 tonnes makes the ram luffing crane an ideal piece of equipment for small and unmanned platforms or floating storage vessels. The ram luffing crane RL can be powered electro-hydraulically or diesel-hydraulically and is available for explosive areas in accordance with the requisite classification.

knuckle boom crane offshore

The luffing knuckle boom crane was developed especially for the oil and gas industry. Applications include supply and maintenance work as well as pipe handling. The unique design of the knuckle boom optimizes the working radius and increases the flexibility of the crane.

Offshore pedestal cranes

Pedestal Mounted Cranes can be used for various tasks including unloading of supply vessels, offshore installation work, pipe transfer, deck handling, and subsea installation. Pedestal Mounted Cranes are characterized by their small tail swing (optimizing free deck space), and the fact that all drivers are installed inside the enclosed crane house.

The pedestal Mounted Crane comprises a steel crane house, bolted to the pedestal via the slew bearing, a lattice or box girder type boom, and various hoist tackles to control the boom and the lower blocks.

All main equipment – winches, electrical cabinets, and/or hydraulic power units – is located inside the crane house to protect it from the harsh marine environment, increase reliability, and reduce required maintenance. The boom hoist runs from the top of the crane house to the boom tip and controls the radius of the lower blocks.

Offshore crane manufacturers

Kenz Figee

With over 300 offshore cranes and hoisting systems installed on various types of offshore installations, Kenz Cranes can be considered one of the leading suppliers in the industry. From the Gulf of Mexico to the Asia Pacific region, our ram luffing, lattice boom, and knuckle boom cranes operate in some of the harshest environments.

Liebherr offshore cranes

Liebherr Maritime Cranes is a division of the Liebherr Group which specializes in cargo handling solutions for ports as well as for the shipping and offshore industry. Products include ship-to-shore cranes, mobile harbor cranes, offshore cranes, ship cranes, rubber tire and rail-mounted gantry cranes, reach stackers and straddle carriers.

Liebherr offshore cranes are modern, sophisticated machines that benefit from the experience gained during many years of design development and operation in the most severe environmental conditions. They offer a wide variety of applications including heavy load lifting and cargo handling.

Palfinger offshore cranes

As a global partner for innovative and reliable deck equipment and lifesaving appliances, PALFINGER MARINE supplies high-quality products to fulfill standardized and customized demands.

Supported worldwide by a network of experienced and skilled specialists, we provide flexible and efficient service solutions. Our portfolio gives a competitive edge to customers in the maritime and offshore industry.

Offshore crane specifications

Areas of application of offshore cranes

Deep-sea oil & gas company

Setting-up oil and gas extraction systems underwater require the use of specially equipped cranes. For this area, the luffing knuckle boom crane with deep-sea equipment.

• Precision through active heave compensation: During deep-sea deployment, the movements of the ship during the positioning of the loads by the crane must be compensated for.
• Use in explosive areas: All relevant components of the crane can be reached by means of a catwalk which, aside from safety, assures the highest level of maintenance-friendliness.

Offshore oil and gas production

Offshore cranes are deployed for the assembly, repair, and supply of oil and gas extraction systems. The performance capacity, size, and also the way the cranes are constructed vary according to the respective requirements profile.

Use in explosive areas: For use in explosive areas, the relevant customer requirements for various design solutions are available not just for the boom area but also for the whole crane.

All relevant components of the crane can be reached by means of a catwalk which ensures the highest level of safety during the maintenance of the crane.

In accordance with the requisite construction regulations, opportunities exist to install emergency assemblies as well as software-related equipment for the crane with safety-supporting systems.

Wind turbine park

Heavy-duty offshore deployment: Heavy-duty deployments, such as operations involving the erection of wind parks or the assembly of oil rigs, require the highest level of precision and safety.

These ships can drive to their deployment site with their own propulsion system and rest there on the seabed with the help of four collapsible struts.

Crane support

Methods Of Crane Support

For many years, cranes were supported on their foundations by roller bearings at their bases and are still commonly used on production duty applications.

However, the kingpost design is the modern method for supporting high-use cranes and/or those on floating installations and is the preferred arrangement for drilling duty and floating applications.

Roller Bearing Type Cranes

• The revolving superstructure bolts on top of the roller bearing
• Roller bearing subject to full overturning moment from the weight of the load, the crane itself, and boom
• Failure of bolts or the slew roller bearing can and has led to the loss of operator, crane from its mount
• In floating applications, the bearing is subjected to load cycles from the crane’s self-weight and installation motions even when the crane isn’t in use
• Replacement is costly and difficult to accomplish offshore

Kingpost-Type Cranes

• Revolving superstructure fits over and revolves around the kingpost
• Crane cannot separate from mount because of slew bearing failure
• No bolts = no bolt failure
• Bearings are easily replaced in the field using simple hand tools

Offshore oil and gas

In the mid-1940s, important changes in the oil industry were made as the United States was making its transition from wartime to a peacetime economy. Government controls on crude oil prices finished and began disputes over offshore water bottom proprietorship.

The increasing demand for gas and oil encouraged offshore activities, which encountered many difficult and challenging problems, such as tidal, current, and weather prediction, underwater exploration, drilling location, and offshore communications

By 1.949, there were 11 oil fields in the Gulf of Mexico and another 44 exploratory wells in process. Since then, around 16.000 wells have been drilled in the continental shelf in deeper and deeper waters very far from the coast. Offshore rigs have drilled in waters over 2.200 meters deep and as far as 200 miles from shore.

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The ports are one of the pillars within the international commercial dynamics, formed by an infrastructure and logistics that establish the first contact for the arrival of merchandise and people to later follow their routes to other destinations.

Ship to Shore Gantry Crane:

What is a gantry crane? The gantry crane or container crane is a typical heavy-duty crane, widely used in ports and docks for loading and unloading shipping containers and moving the container stack in container terminals.

The gantry crane is a lifting device consisting of two or four poles that raise a bridge structure through which the lifting mechanism circulates.

Ship to-shore crane specification

Maritime trade:

The ports are one of the pillars within the international commercial dynamics, formed by an infrastructure and logistics that establish the first contact for the arrival of merchandise and people to later follow their routes to other destinations.

The worldwide trend is the movement of mass cargo, even more so with new vessels such as the container ship of 18,270 TEUs; (unit of measure of capacity for containers). Considered the largest container ship in the world belonging to the Maersk Triple E Class.

The Post Panamax, Ultra Containers, and Super Oil tankers are arriving at various ports that require ports with a large draft, wide measures of length, and beam, which are a challenge for many countries given their large investment structure.

But the big question arises:

How can you respond to the huge volumes of cargo that generate a limited period of time in the activity of loading and unloading in ports?

What automatic and modern processes are on par with the speed necessary for the operations of a port to the demands of today?

Container crane specifications

Characteristics of the Portico Crane:

This gantry container crane generally has a high operating speed and work level. It is designed to perform its service in harsh working conditions, for outdoor service, and for long periods of uninterrupted use.

• The gantry crane is a special type of crane that elevates the load by means of a forklift installed on a beam, which in turn is rigidly supported by two or more legs.
• These legs can usually be moved on horizontal rails at ground level. In some factories and ships, the so-called bridge crane is used, which has the same operation as the gantry crane, with the difference that the beam rests directly on the rails.
• The type of gantry crane for containers depends to a large extent on ships and environmental conditions.

There are several different types of container cranes, including gantry cranes mounted on rails, commonly abbreviated as cranes RMG (gantry crane container mounted on rails), rubber leg cranes, usually called RTG cranes for short and ship cranes to earth, and the port crane STS (Ship to Shore)

• Absolute precision control in the handling of goods at speed.
• Speed to load and unload.
• Simplicity in the management of containers

STS Ship to shore

The ship-to-shore gantry crane is widely used in port terminals, docks, and containers to load and unload containers from ships. Generally abbreviated as gantry cranes STS (Ship to Shore), ship to land. This dock container gantry crane is usually installed on the edges of port terminals and extends along two rails.

This ship-to-shore container gantry crane is born to keep up with the development of large-scale container ships, Panamax and post-Panamax have to develop and design a highly efficient container handling system to meet production requirements larger for large vessels

Container Crane Cost

Used as a heavy-duty crane, this gantry crane usually costs much more than other gantry cranes for common use.

Sometimes customers may not be sure which type best suits their needs, so the first and most important thing is to understand the differences between these types of gantry cranes. Then you must clear your needs for container gantry crane capacity, span, lifting height, etc.

Quote with the specialists that will design the crane specifically for the place where it will be implemented

Shipping container crane

As a highly efficient container handling equipment, the gantry crane significantly improves productivity. You can achieve fast and accurate positioning.

Due to the adoption of the anti-tipping device, there is no influence on the lifting carriage during the operation process of the crane.

The container gantry crane requires minimal maintenance and very low energy consumption. It is suitable for various workplaces, including port, dock, dock, and rail terminals.

The container crane can guarantee a highly safe operation and precise handling of the containers.

Shipping container crane operator

The gantry crane transfers the containers between the dock and the container ship. Allows loading jobs to be carried out quickly and efficiently.

The bridge must be handled manually and not automatically according to the law. The operator that handles the crane sits in a cabin suspended from the top of the gantry.

When the portico is at the height of the vessel, maneuver so that the crane with the spreader moves and descends to the container that you want to load or unload. Hooks the twist locks (corner of the containers) to block them, hoists the container, and deposits it in the dock.

When they are on land, the containers are placed on another means of transport (usually a container truck) or stacked.

For transportation within the cargo terminal, the aforementioned gantry, reach stackers or automatic transport systems are used. (automated guided vehicle or AGV, automated lift vehicle or ALV).

Ship to shore Crane design

There are several options for the design of container gantry cranes. The main components of the gantry crane, all are purchased from locally and overseas renowned suppliers to ensure the quality of the crane and long service life.

For example, you can choose hoists and electric motors from the manufacturer or ask for external suppliers. The modular design is adopted to maximize the adaptability and availability of the double beam lifting system.

The options of cranes for containers include, among others, the following characteristics: brake system and emergency transmission, anti-collision and anti-rollover systems, remote operation system, and positioning system.

The ship-to-shore crane for containers is designed for each individual use of the customers. The gantry crane for container loading is designed specifically for each client according to their specific requirements, with different costs and data characteristics in each case and with sizes ranging from the Panamax class to the largest Megamax cranes.

Container Ship

Gantry cranes for containers are classified according to the container loading and unloading capacity and the size of the ships that are capable of loading and unloading.

PANAMAX

A Panamax crane can fully load and unload a Panamax class container ship; that is, able to pass through the Panama Canal (57.91 meters from 12 to 13 containers wide)

POST-PANAMAX

A “Post-Panamax” crane can load and unload completely from ships too wide to pass through the Panama Canal; generally with a width of 18 containers.

These cranes have an approximate weight of 800 to 900 tons.

SUPER POST-PANAMAX

The largest gantry cranes for containers are classified as “Super-Post-Panamax”.

Used to unload the largest container ships (with 22 or more containers in width) and its weight varies between 1600 and 2000 tons.

FEEDER CRANES

The Feeder crane has a sleeve capacity to load and unload 10 containers.

Smaller gantry cranes are also used, such as the inside the cargo terminals.

In addition, smaller gantry cranes are usually used in rail loading and unloading facilities to transfer containers; from wagons, to trucks, as they allow vehicles to load and unload under their vain.

They can also be found in the width changes, where they transfer containers between trains of different widths.

Ship to shore crane manufacturers

• Konecranes
• Kalmar container crane
• Liebherr container cranes

Konecranes

Konecranes has over 40 years of experience in the design, manufacture, and delivery of Ship-to-Shore (STS) container cranes.

We have delivered over 120 of them, in sizes ranging from Panamax to Super Post Panamax. Our STS cranes have an excellent reputation for design, manufacturing (in-house manufacturing of key components), and customer care.

• We can erect our STS cranes on-site, or ship them fully erected depending on your location.
• Konecranes Ship-to-Shore cranes are equipped with our Active Load Control technology.
• Which improves the crane operator’s control over the positioning of the spreader and container on the truck chassis, in the cell or on the deck.
• Dwell times decrease substantially. You can substantially boost the productivity of your quayside operations.

Kalmar container crane

Kalmar ship-to-shore (STS) cranes deliver the reliability and efficiency your terminal needs to maintain productivity and gain a competitive edge.

Their simplified modular design is lightweight and durable, makes maintenance easier, and can be tailored to your exact specifications. Wherever you are in the world, we’re with you every step of the way, from planning and specification to delivery, service support, and upgrades.

Ship-to-shore (STS) cranes are the single most important piece of equipment in any container terminal, so having a knowledgeable and experienced partner to support you every step of the way really pays off.

In today’s fast-paced container port terminals, speeding up ship turnaround times can give your port a significant competitive advantage. With their fast operation and excellent availability, our STS solutions are designed to help you do just that.

With more than 40 years experience in engineering, building, and upgrading these critical pieces of equipment – plus a number of industry-first innovations – we can provide expert support for everything from planning and specification to maintenance and spare parts delivery, as well as upgrades and retrofits.

Liebherr container cranes

In the modern port environment, reliability and productivity are the key parameters. Ship-to-shore container cranes (STS) from Liebherr achieve up to 99.6% availability during actual vessel operation.

Ship-to-shore container cranes are custom-designed with a range of outreaches and specification detail according to individual customer requirements from Panamax size through to the largest megamax cranes. Safe working loads from 40 to 120 metric tonnes are available in single, twin, and tandem lift configurations.

Advantages and Benefits:

• Designed and built by Liebherr in Ireland for over 45 years
• Industry-leading availability
• High-performance cranes with a lower self-weight and center of gravity
• Liebherr drive systems
• Increased productivity compared with alternative designs
• High reliability and low downtime
• Rigid and stable structure
• Improved performance where high in-service winds prevail
• Accurate spreader positioning
• Anti-sway reeving
• Optimum driver comfort due to ergonomic cabin and unique Liebherr hinge point design
• Precision simultaneous drive motion in three axis
• Low lifecycle costs

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Container Stacker: Reachstacker is generally compared to forklifts, but they have many differences. Forklifts are used for the most frequent loading and unloading and do not offer the same capacity as reach stackers

Container Handler

Container handlers are described as highly efficient material handling machines that are used in many sectors of the port industry.

Some of the most used machines for handling containers are the reach stacker and the container crane. Gantry cranes for containers are the largest and most powerful units for loading and unloading containers.

The reach stackers, on the other hand, are faster and more efficient machines for short distances. Although they are used for the same purpose, these two machines are different and work in a different way.

Reachstacker: the reach stacker can lift, load, move and lower containers in a fast, efficient and unique way.

Reach Stacker Crane

HOW DOES IT WORK:

With large storage capacity and a great capacity of stacking, the reach stacker is designed to work between rows easily and to store containers in blocks of 4 deep.

The newer reach stackers come with smart mechanisms to improve efficiency. For example, the hydraulic load sensing system ensures that the hydraulic lift system and the engine are available with sufficient power.

However, the reach stacker includes many other innovative systems with a single goal: to improve profitability by offering higher torque at lower rotation speeds and to provide a comfortable and safe environment for operators.

The reach stackers are generally compared to the forklifts, but they have many differences. Forklifts are used for the most frequent loading and unloading and do not offer the same capacity as reach stackers

Reachstackers

TECHNICAL INFORMATION:

The container crane or is also very common the English term reach stacker due to its weight of approx. 37-85 tons cannot be used on public streets.

In general, the reach stacker container cranes are used for the handling of empty or full containers of 20′- 40’with a weight of 5 – 45 tons.

The main sites where reach stacker container cranes are used are port terminals, container depots and are also used in the intermodal sector.

Load Capacity

Reachstacker or container cranes at the end work as a crane with the accessory the spreader that has the dimensions to raise containers 20′ but can also be extended to 40′ to raise equally 40′ containers be empty or full.

There are also reach stacker cranes with an accessory called piggyback that are four arms mounted on the spreader with which you can also raise a trailer with the container and put it on a train.

For example, reach stacker machines can stack full containers in the first row with a weight of approx. 42-45 tons 5 containers high, in the second row they can stack even 25-30 tons and in the 3rd row, they can still go up 20 tons.

Cargo Handling

APPLICATIONS:

The machine offers different extensible rigs for each job. The wide range of products for reach stacker offers possibilities for different fields of handling besides containers.

In addition to container handling, the transport of bulk goods, handling of wood, loading of loose material with hooks and pulleys are also included.

Reach stacker manufacturers

Manufacturing Companies

• Kalmar
• Fantuzzi
• CVS Ferrari
• Linde
• Liebherr
• Terex
• Konecranes

The most well-known manufacturers are the Swedish companies Kalmar Industries, SMV Konecranes, the Italian brands Fantuzzi, CVS Ferrari, the German brands Linde, Liebherr producers of a single reach stacker where the mast has the shape of a banana, besides The Hyster brand, PPM Terex, is still on the market. For many small terminals that do not have the economic means to buy a portal crane, the reach stacker machines are a good alternative

Konecranes reach stacker

Konecranes Liftace Reach Stackers consist of the well-known TFC models and the R models launched in April 2015 under the Liftace name. Built on engineering tradition and expertise, these reach stackers are dependable workhorses, simple to maintain, robust and good value for money.

Thanks to a high degree of standardization, terminal operators benefit from short delivery lead times – making Konecranes Liftace Reach Stackers available, serviceable and durable.

Konecranes Liftace Reach Stackers are of a high standard and specially designed to work with modern control systems and drive technology. Engines comply with emission standards EU Stage IIIA (EPA Tier 3) and EU Stage IV (EPA Tier 4 final).

Versatile, reliable and powerful Whether for use in port, railway or intermodal terminals, in container stackyards or any other area of logistics, Konecranes Liftace Reach Stackers are known for good quality, robust design and reliability in operation when handling containers or heavy general cargo.

With the durable Konecranes Liftace Spreaders, 20’ to 40’ containers are stacked up to 1-over-6 high-cube containers high.

To handle general cargo, the machines can be fitted with dedicated lifting gear. Konecranes Liftace Reach Stackers meet the challenges of professional cargo handling with high loading capacities of 45 t and high working speeds while providing simple and safe operation.

Konecranes Liftace Reach Stackers at a glance

• Productive – working speeds for efficient handling rates
• Economical – low fuel consumption and predictable maintenance cost
• Simple – operation and maintenance
• Proven technology – agile, robust and reliable
• Safe – reliable monitoring and excellent visibility

Ferrari Reach Stacker

CVS FERRARI F500 Reach Stackers are true engineering masterpieces conceived to massively increase the value generation for the user by sensibly extending the equipment service life and drastically reduce operating cost, besides introducing an unprecedented control of the unit and its systems.

CVS FERRARI is proud to introduce its F500 Reach stacker series:

• a new breed of machines that will forever change the standards of performance and return on investment of the industry.
• Structures certified to withstand endless duty cycles, ultimate energy-saving solutions, state of the art onboard intelligence, maintenance costs killing, design and uncompromised quality of components.
• Nothing else like these trucks ever existed before.
• Discover the unmatched safety of these unique products and the many innovative driver and caretakers “job easing” solutions they contain.
• Meet the strength of mechatronics and the power of integrated data processing applied to lift equipment.

Liebherr reach stacker

Functional handling solution for any terminal

Liebherr reachstacker profit from many years of development experience in the maritime sector. A variety of highly efficient innovations, a comfortable and ergonomic design as well as impressive performance distinguish the Liebherr reachstacker. In this way, it is a versatile handling solution that can be deployed for any kind of terminal.

Hydrostatic drive: The tried-and-tested hydrostatic drive enables continuous acceleration for enhanced driving comfort. It also ensures energy recovery for increased efficiency.

Ergonomic cab: The comfortable cab with its ergonomic design eases the burden on the operator. An optimal view with the high proportion of glass in the cab increases safety in the terminal.

Wheel rims: The wheel rims ensure reduced maintenance costs and increased safety. The simple principle of these rims makes assembly quick and safe. This concept is unique in the market.

Liebherr LRS 645

The “award” for the most distinctive feature of a Liebherr Reachstackers certainly goes to the uniquely curved, telescopic boom for unrivaled range and unbeatable stacking capabilities.

This makes a Liebherr reachstacker not only a suitable instrument for today’s handling requirements but also an investment in the future!

The new dimension of the Container handling With the departure from the straight boom concept, direct access to containers in the second and third row is possible without shifting in the foremost stack. Such an innovative handling concept increases the efficiency of container terminals all over the world in one fell swoop.

• Inspired by nature, designed by Liebherr
• Due to its unconventional design, the curved, telescopic boom has been given the name “banana boom” shortly after its launch.
• The comparison fits: Like the banana, the Liebherr reach stacker offers a wealth of vitamins, meaning useful resources for its users.
• For example, in barge handling, it is possible to load and unload containers below the floor – even without special equipment retrofitting.

Reachstacker Kalmar

The Kalmar DRG100 is the only reach stacker for empty and semi-laden container handling on the market that allows you to rotate, lift at a 45° angle, drive forwards or reverse with a full-tilt stroke, reach 6 or 8 containers high, work in second or third row and even do a unique 1,000 mm side shift and rotate the container so the door is on the right side.

The Kalmar DRG100 offers full flexibility with full rotation, large side shift and tilt to allow you to both transport and perform services, maintenance, repairs and cleaning with maximum efficiency. Low and narrow workshop doors don’t present a problem. Just turn the container lengthwise and drive inside.

Add another dimension to empty and semi-laden container handling with a reachstacker containers that can be transported at full width, turned 45° or lengthwise at 90°, making it possible to deliver “end-on” into and through low and narrow workshop doors, port sheds and other tight openings.

Operators don’t have to pick up containers right-angled and can increase efficiency and handling speed during yard stacking, loading of road trucks or container repairs.

Eco cranes

Increasing fuel costs and tougher emissions standards means you need a solution that is leaner and greener, while still maintaining the highest levels of operational productivity. The Kalmar Eco Reachstacker provides you with an eco-efficient solution that is guaranteed to use significantly less fuel than others reach stackers.

Container handling

With Kalmar’s reach stackers for container handling, you benefit from superior usability, comfort, and safety combined with low operating and maintenance costs. Terminal operators around the world rely on Kalmar equipment for its precision, the low total cost of ownership and excellent environmental performance.

Intermodal handling

Kalmar reach stackers for intermodal handling give you the power, speed, and precision you need for efficient operations. Our flexible equipment solutions are easily adapted to a wide variety of handling tasks common in modern intermodal terminals.

Forklift Reach Stacker

The debate on: is a reachstacker better suited to handling full containers in the yard than a forklift? The operator crane finds there are arguments for either solution.

The short answer is that both machines have their place but there are at least four inter-related factors to take into account when deciding:

• running cost and return on investment (see box)
• the scale and nature of the terminal operation
• the very different handling characteristics of the two machines
• the cultural factor, (traditional practices in certain parts of the world)

Weighing up these factors, separately and collectively, should lead to the right choice.

Reach stacker vs Forklift

What’s it for?

The scale and cargo profile of the terminal may decide the type of machine at the outset.

Operator crane says “Many smaller terminals around the world handle a mix of cargoes: containers, steel coils, stone and so on. So they need a machine that is flexible.

Reachstacking is more suitable where you have 20-25% container handling in intermodal situations.

But the reach stacker is only made for one purpose: to handle containers.

“So operator crane, for example, has at least 10 big forklifts for container handling but they also have a couple of reach stackers for intermodal handling of containers onto rail wagon and truck.

The port has done much analysis and concluded that for them it is better to drive with a masted forklift because it is quicker, safer and the load is a little closer to machine and driver. That is their decision.”

He adds that in cases where the machine is only driven for perhaps 1,000 to 1,500 hours a year, to handle a mix of cargoes, then its flexibility – with the options of fitting a container spreader or quick release forks – will favor the masted forklift.

“It is so easy to say we produce both forklift and reach stackers so what would you like to have?” says operator crane. Actually, it is very important to make an analysis with each customer, what is the intent or purpose of buying the machine.”

Reach stacker driver

How does it drive?

Then comes the question of whether the forklift’s arguably more agile handling characteristics make it a better choice.

Furthermore, the container is pretty well fixed to the dedicated attachment. For a driver, this makes the handling operation very straightforward and reliable.

Compare this with a reach stacker and you will notice that one of the most difficult movements is the straight vertical lift, where the driver must operate the controls such that boom tilt and extension move at a certain pace. When stacking containers at an angle the whole operation becomes even more complex.

“Nevertheless, ” he concludes, “the reach stacker is excellent for reaching into a stack. If this is carefully thought out and all terminal logistics play ball, a reach stacker (with sufficient capacity) can boost terminal storage capacity. Plus the reach stacker is a solution for low overhead situations and/or regular transport over the road.”

Reachstacker vs forklift
characteristics of the two machine types.

“Reachstackers have become popular, and in certain circumstances enable increased container storage. On the other hand, ” he argues, “increased storage density when using reach stackers brings an inherent change in ‘selectivity’ which could result in extra handling and reduced throughput of containers when compared to the use of lift trucks.

“Available space is a limiting factor in most locations and mobile handling equipment that enables the highest storage/density will be favored. Increasing storage can be achieved by stacking higher and/or deeper (i. e. in a 2nd row). Both methods do reduce the accessibility (‘selectivity’) of containers.”

The operator crane goes on to illustrate his arguments taking an average terminal and comparing reach stacker and lift truck performance. “As expected reach stackers achieve the higher storage, though perhaps disappointing at just 19 % over the lift trucks. The other side of the equation should not be overlooked either: namely that by adding a second row of containers the accessibility of containers, i. e. the ‘selectivity’ is significantly altered.

“On maneuverability lift trucks commonly work in 15 meter wide aisles, stacking a mix of 20ft and 40ft loaded containers. There is sufficient clearance for the lift truck and also lorries can pass in front, without a need for the incoming lorry to (partly) drive underneath a lifted container.”

Operator forklift

In conclusion, the challenge for a terminal operator is to establish what is the workable mix of the two key variables (storage and selectivity) and let this “total picture” determine the choice of mobile handling equipment.

“Investment in reach stackers can pay dividends by increasing terminals’ storage, while lift trucks may well be faster in the turnaround of containers and thus satisfy your, and your customer’s needs better.”

IT’S ABOUT CULTURE TOO Speaking of Kalmar’s own experience, product manager, whose portfolio includes heavy Forklifts, says: “It’s really only in North America and Australasia that they prefer forklifts to reach stackers.

North America has a rather conservative attitude towards change.

Also, their labor unions are opposed to putting in reach stackers in place of forklifts. Furthermore, over the years they have made huge investments and have built up huge fleets of top-picks as they call them.

They have arranged the layout of the yards to suit top-picks. All operator training is done on top-picks. And all this together makes it very hard to change unless you open a brand new site. So they are locked into a handling solution and it would be very costly for them to change. In Australiasia they also have a long tradition of using forklifts.”

“We don’t try to push the reach stacker onto these customers because we can see that they have very good schemes for operating with forklifts. The productivity is very high and they would not gain too much by changing over to reach stackers”.

Reach stacker specification

Reach stackers and ISO container handlers are material handling vehicles that transport intermodal containers. They provide short-distance transport for containers transferred to and from fleets, vessels, or railcars at ports, railyards, or other storage terminals.

Intermodal containers are manufactured according to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) specifications and are also referred to as ISO containers. ISO containers meet size, strength, and durability requirements as well as dimensional standards that allow for increased storage capacity and logistics optimization. More information about ISO containers can be found in Engineering360’s ISO container specification guide.

The terms reach stackers and ISO container handlers generally differentiate two distinct but closely-related types of industrial trucks.

Reach stackers

Reach stackers have a telescoping boom that allows for an extended horizontal reach. These booms can be equipped with attachments that best interface with the ISO containers being transported. They are preferable to ISO container handlers when storage capacity needs to be maximized. Reach stackers offer the ability to stack containers multiple rows deep.

ISO container handlers

ISO container handlers have a forklift attachment that only extends vertically. They are more versatile than reach stackers since they can lift and transport a wider range of containers and cargo. Container handlers also offer quicker loading and greater selectivity. The vehicle’s lack of horizontal reach prevents it from stacking more than two rows deep. This limits the number of “dead picks” (i.e. containers with restricted access). Loaded container handlers may be further classified as empty container handlers or laden container handlers.

• Laden container handlers are slightly larger with an increased lifting capacity suitable for lifting and transporting fully-loaded ISO containers.
• Empty container handlers are smaller with a lower capacity rating and are only suitable for the transport of empty ISO containers.

Reach stacker design

Reach stackers are specified by their lifting capacity, wheelbase, reach, and turning radius.

• Lifting capacity is the maximum force or load supported by the lift, cart, truck, or dolly.
• The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle.
• Reach is the difference between the fully-retracted and fully-extended positions of the lift or boom.
• Turning radius is the radius of the smallest circle the vehicle is capable of making.

What is a reach stacker?

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A rubber tyred gantry crane (RTG crane) is a mobile gantry crane used in intermodal operations to ground or stack containers.

Inbound containers are stored for future pickup by drayage trucks, and outbound are stored for future loading onto vessels.

RTGs typically straddle multiple lanes, with one lane reserved for container transfers.

Advantages: its mobility gives a rubber tyred gantry crane wide appliance

Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane

Tire container cranes (RTG) can be supplied with wingspan sizes of between five and eight containers (plus truck track width) and lift heights from “1 over 3” to “1 over 6” containers.

RTG cranes offer extraordinary productivity and reliability when stacking containers.

The RTG crane has a steel structure with high rigidity and stability that allows the containers to be handled in a very precise way and without shaking in their movement, even at high handling speeds.

This machine responds perfectly to the high level of quality demand. Its ease of maintenance results in a minimization of downtime, which in turn increases the performance of each RTG unit. It has a very precise control with the simultaneous movement of the different drives, so it is not necessary to mount a cable pulley crossbar or a lateral displacement system.

It can be supplied in an 8-wheel or 16-wheel configuration with numerous options to increase productivity, from DGPS and automatic steering to battery profiling and automation.

• Container Reachstacker
• Container crane

Container Terminal

Uses in Container terminal: To reduce the loading and unloading times of large container ships, the container storage area (container depot) needs to be handled in the best and most efficient way possible.

Depending on the degree of automation in modern container terminals, this can be done by means of two types of cranes for the handling of containers: gantry cranes on tires (RTG, for its acronym in English) or cranes gantry on rails (RMG).

RTG container crane

RTG equipment

Although the task of both types of cranes is very similar – handling the entrance and exit of containers and placing them in blocks or piles – the technical and functional requirements for these types of machines are considerably different.

RTG cranes are operated by onboard drivers. The main function of these cranes is to unload containers from trucks or terminal tractors and load them in the container block or vice versa.

In general, RTGs have an extension equivalent to 5-8 containers wide and 3-5 tall. Standard RTG cranes are equipped with diesel engines to provide the power needed to move and lift loads.

The transmission of energy and data to the truck of the RTG crane is provided by festoon cable systems or electric cable chains.

The RMG cranes are fully electrified. The main power supply and data transmission are handled by highly dynamic and specialized motorized cable reels.

RMG cranes are generally wider and taller than RTG cranes. Due to the automation of functions and the additional control equipment on board, the requirements for data communication to an RMG crane are much greater.

The transmission of energy and data to the truck of the RMG crane is carried out by highly resistant electric cable drag chain systems. The fully automated RMG cranes are known as automatic stacking cranes, or ASC, for its acronym in English.

RTG crane parts name

Rubber tyre gantry crane overview:

• steel frame
• hoisting mechanism
• minimum slewing mechanism and
• spreader anti-shaking mechanism
• crane travel mechanism
• turning mechanism
• trolley traverse mechanism
• container spreader
• diesel generating sets
• electrical equipment and
• other accessory equipment for safety.
• Inverter, PLC and CMMS(fault monitor system)

RTG crane parts

• High tensile structural steel: Reduced weight leading to savings in civil infrastructure costs.
• Self-powered trolley: Ensures precise positioning.
• Simultaneous motion: 1,2 & 3. Simultaneous motion of all drives for increased productivity
• Performance and safety: Anti-collision, gantry align and optional DGPS for improved safety and productivity
• Ergonomic driver’s cabin:
  • Designed with driver comfort and productivity in mind.
  • Reduced fatigue.
• Modular drive systems: “Plug-in” modular construction of main drives assists fault finding and results in reduced maintenance costs.
• Choice of power options: Depending on operational requirements, choose from electric, diesel-electric, dual or variable speed diesel, or hybrid.
• Unique hoist system
  • No requirement for a head-block.
  • Reduced weight and energy consumption.
  • No additional motors or ropes for positioning of spreader leading to reduced maintenance costs.
  • Eight rope reeving ensures no sway or skew.
  • Precise spreader positioning for increased efficiency

RTG crane specification

Features and advantages of RTG crane

• Advanced technology: Advanced design, manufacturing technology, and test detection system, etc.
• Comfortable ride. Nice-round view, industrial moldings control panel, high-resolution electronic monitor, centralized operation handle, warm-cold air conditioner, sound-absorbing, and de-noising, etc.
• Safe and efficient. RTG crane is equipped with overload protection, diesel engine over-speed protection, water higher temperature indicator, and lower oil pressure indicator devices, and wind speed indicator, typhoon anchor device, emergency stop button, and each mechanism limit switch and indicator, etc.
• Energy-saving and environment protecting. On yard turning, the RTG crane is driven by low power engine generators, saving energy and meet the demand for environmental protection.

RTG crane manufacturers

• Konecranes
• Liebherr
• Kalmar
• Sany

RTG Konecranes

Konecranes Rubber Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes and Konecranes Noell RTGs that make container handling safer, more productive and more reliable.

The Konecranes RTG has an intelligent steel structure, Active Load Control (ALC) technology and a smarter cabin, making this RTG the most productive and reliable in the world

The Konecranes Automated RTG (ARTG) system is available for both greenfield and brownfield container terminals.

RTG Liebherr

Liebherr technology powering productivity. Liebherr cranes are engineered with efficiency in mind. Each component has been specifically designed for maximum productivity, reliability, and quality. The result is a crane delivering excellent productivity, with exceptional lifetime costs and industry-leading longevity.

RTG Kalmar

The Kalmar RTG cranes offer a highly efficient and flexible platform with four power source alternatives, industry-leading performance levels and state of the art features that can help you reduce RTG fuel consumption from 17% to 100% compared to most other RTGs.

The features include e.g. electro-mechanical anti-sway system, SmartProfile stack anti-collision system, SmartView camera system and a completely new intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) for the driver.

Each of the Kalmar RTGs can be designed to meet your business requirements. We can build your RTG to the height and width you specify, with an extensive choice of highly efficient power sources and cabin options. Kalmar RTGs are available up to 10+1 wide, giving you high stacking density and efficient land utilization.

RTG Sany

SANY RTG is customized to meet your unique demand at ports and yards, available in the standard model and tailored models with multiple choices of hoisting height, spans, and specifications. Modular design, top manufacturing, leading technologies, and rigorous tests give you the best RTG crane in the shortest period.

Rubber Tyred Gantry

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