GPA to upgrade RTGs with emissions reduction technology

An agreement to purchase 17 Caterpillar generator sets powered by Tier 4 Interim certified Cat® C15 ACERT™ engines has been signed by the Georgia Port Authority (GPA) as part of an ongoing effort at the Port of Savannah to upgrade older rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes with cleaner technology.


The conversion of the machines will be carried out through Caterpillar’s Atlanta-based dealer Yancey Bros by adapting the diesel generator sets with customised enclosures and mounts for installation into the RTGs.


The project starts this quarter, with staged upgrades scheduled for completion within 12 months and will see the replacement of non-regulated and Tier 1 diesel generator sets with advanced equipment featuring cleaner more efficient certified engines.


To further reduce fuel consumption and emissions, the RTGs will be fitted with new controls that will automatically shift the engines between idle and higher operating speeds to optimise efficiency and meet variable load demands.


The use of the new generator sets is expected to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) by more than 60% and emissions of particulate matter by more than 80%. Once complete, GPA expects the RTG repower project will reduce total annual diesel fuel consumption by 129,200 gallons.


Designed for standby, prime and load management applications, the diesel generator sets are the first mid-range units from Caterpillar available with Tier 4 Interim certification. Utilising an electronically controlled air management system, the advanced emissions control on the engine lowers combustion temperature and decreases NOx output, meeting EPA-regulated levels without the need for after-treatment.


“A key part of the Georgia Ports Authority’s mission is to maintain the natural quality of the environment and this repowering project will significantly reduce emissions and our fuel consumption,” said Curtis Foltz, GPA’s executive director.


“It is critical for us to demonstrate global excellence in all aspects of our operations as we look to nearly double port capacity within the next ten years. These diesel generator sets will help us fulfil our commitment to environmental leadership while increasing our productivity,” he said.
(Source:http://www.container-mag.com)