Electrification of 17 RTGs for Conductix-Wampfler

 A total of 13 existing diesel-powered rubber-tyred gantries (RTGs) and four new cranes in Hakata Port, Japan are to be equipped with ‘drive-in’ electrification technology developed by Conductix-Wampfler, enabling the replacement of a crane in a parallel corridor without the need for a 180° turn.

"This will save steel, since one steel framework between two container corridors can be supplied with conductor rail systems on the right and left sides of both corridors," says to Claus Burger of Conductix-Wampfler.

The order, placed by Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co, will involve equipping a total of 15 blocks with a total power transmission length of 3.8 km using the company’s 1,000 amps and four parallel-phase 0813 conductor rail system. Last year a 32-container corridor pilot project was successfully completed using this technology in Shenzhen, China.

"This [Japanese] order confirms that we are on the right track with our environmental and resource-friendly approach and that our innovative technology will be received positively around the world," says Daniel Dörflinger, CEO of Conductix-Wampfler AG.

With more than 50% of the total energy consumption in ports associated with diesel-powered RTGs, idling time and downtime of cargo handling systems, along with rising energy prices, have become enormous cost factors. Many operators are therefore looking for suitable power supply alternatives.

According to the company, the retooling to the E-RTG with a ‘drive-in’ unit eliminates the need for manual "plugging in" of the connection trolley into the conductor rail system. Instead, the trolley is automatically steered to the steel frame guide rails when the RTG enters the corridor, allowing the connectors to be safely guided into the contact lines.

This not only saves time and energy but also increases terminal efficiency and reduces its environmental burden. This latest order will receive state support as part of the Japanese government’s programme for CO2 reduction.

The accompanying photograph shows (L to R) Claus Burger, Conductix-Wampfler Germany; Jiro Ogawa, Conductix-Wampfler Singapore & Japan; Masaki Ono, Technical Project Leader, Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. and Gunther Schäffer, Conductix-Wampfler Germany.

(Source: Container Management)