In recent years, with the continuous construction and expansion of ports, various modern port equipment has emerged. In addition to traditional bulk cargo and container terminal equipment, some uniquely designed and functionally advanced port machinery has gradually become key productivity tools.
Follow this article to learn more about the project facilities that are essential in port construction.
1. Quay Cranes (Container Cranes)
Quay cranes, also known as container cranes, are the core handling equipment of container terminals and directly determine the efficiency and throughput capacity of a port. With the increasing size of container ships, quay cranes are evolving towards large-scale, high-speed, automated, intelligent, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly designs.
Development Stages of Quay Cranes
- First Generation: Lifting capacity of 30.5 tons, hoisting height of 18-20 meters, outreach of 28 meters, powered by electric generators.
- Second Generation: Lifting capacity of 35.5 tons, hoisting height of 25 meters, outreach of 40 meters, using a silicon-controlled DC speed control system.
- Third Generation: Lifting capacity of 50 tons, hoisting height of 32 meters, outreach of 50 meters, adopting an intelligent AC variable frequency drive control system.
- Fourth Generation: Lifting capacity of 70 tons, hoisting height of 42 meters, outreach of 70 meters, using an intelligent AC variable frequency drive system.
Operation Modes：Quay cranes mainly adopt manual operation and remote operation. Fully automated terminals widely use remote control to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
2. Gantry Cranes (Portal Cranes)
Gantry cranes are primarily used in bulk and general cargo terminals and can be equipped with grabs or hooks for different operational modes, suitable for bulk grain, ore, steel, and various general cargo.
Features of Gantry Cranes
- Suitable for handling loads ranging from 10 to over 40 tons.
- Quick switching between grab and hook via fast plug connectors.
- Flexible adaptation to various cargo handling needs.
- Designed for large-span cargo handling and can be integrated with port rail tracks to enhance operational stability and efficiency.
Application of Gantry Crane Rails
Gantry cranes typically run on rails to ensure stability and precision. Port gantry crane rails mainly use heavy-duty rails such as QU70, QU80, QU100, and QU120 to accommodate different tonnage requirements.
- High Load Capacity: Ensures smooth operation and stable lifting of heavy cargo.
- Corrosion Resistance: Special anti-corrosion treatment to withstand humid and salt-laden port environments.
- High-Precision Installation: Ensures smooth gantry crane movement, improving efficiency and reducing equipment wear.
3. Yard Cranes (RTG, RMG)
Yard cranes are used in terminal yards for container stacking and organization, with a typical lifting capacity of 41 tons.
Features of Yard Cranes
- Travel Mechanism: Supported by 4, 8, or 16 wheels, designed according to ground pressure requirements.
- Lifting System: Equipped with fixed guide plates and anti-sway devices, capable of handling 20ft and 40ft containers.
- Power System: Initially powered by diesel generators, now mostly upgraded to electric power to reduce pollution and energy consumption.
- Operation Mode: Supports both manual and remote control operations, with fully automated terminals allowing one operator to remotely control 1-3 yard cranes.
4. Ship Unloader
Ship unloaders are used at port frontlines to handle bulk cargo, categorized into grab-type ship unloaders and continuous ship unloaders.
Grab-Type Ship Unloader
- Uses a trolley on the main beam to operate the grab for material handling.
- Suitable for bulk coal, ore, and similar materials.
Continuous Ship Unloader
- Capable of continuous unloading, enhancing efficiency.
- Affected by ship motion and material distribution.
- Suitable for coal, ore, and bulk materials.
5. Ship Loader
Ship loaders are used at bulk cargo terminals for loading materials such as grain, coal, and ore onto vessels.
Structure of Ship Loaders
- Composed of boom belt conveyors, telescopic chutes, tail cars, gantries, towers, pitching mechanisms, and slewing devices.
- Available in fixed or extendable boom configurations.
- Requires a continuous feeding system, such as silos for grain or reclaimers for coal yards.
6. Other Port Equipment
Reach Stackers
- Used for container handling, stacking, and horizontal transport.
- Features high mobility, efficiency, safety, and ease of operation.
- Available in single-arm and double-arm designs to meet various operational needs.
Straddle Carriers
- Primarily used for horizontal transportation between the quay and yard, as well as container stacking.
- Features a portal frame that straddles the container, with a hydraulic lifting system for movement.
- Offers high mobility but requires higher maintenance and upkeep.
Material Handlers
- Equipped with different grab attachments for various cargo-handling operations.
- Enhances efficiency, particularly in bulk cargo yards.
Conclusion
Port machinery plays a crucial role in global trade and transportation. With technological advancements, port equipment is progressing towards efficiency, intelligence, and sustainability. The integration of gantry cranes with rail systems significantly enhances stability and efficiency in port operations.
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Proper selection and configuration of port machinery can greatly improve overall operational capacity and drive continuous economic growth in ports.