New automatic stacking cranes (ASCs) have arrived at the Port of Brisbane
July 1, 2013
New automatic stacking cranes (ASCs) have arrived at the Port of Brisbane, as part of a $250 million project to automate DP World’s container terminal.
Four new ASCs arrived at the port on June 28.
DP World Australia Managing Director Ganesh Raj says DP World will use a combination of automatic stacking cranes that interact with shuttle carriers to maximise terminal capacity and improve operational efficiency.
He says the infrastructure is the latest in stevedoring technology with ASC operations and automated terminal operating systems.
Manufactured at Cargotec’s Shanghai facility, the Kalmar ASCs are fully-automated, rail-mounted gantry cranes, which can perform container moves within each 300-metre-long module.
“The technology will improve the safety and reliability as well as availability and flexibility to the operation of picking and storing containers,” Raj says.
Raj says two more shipments of the cranes from Cargotec are due in July and October and will be assembled on site over the next three to six months.
DP World will ultimately operate a total of 14 ASCs at the Brisbane terminal.
“Further expansion is planned to keep pace with customer demand,” Raj says.
Raj says
the major infrastructure project to automate processes at the port is now in its final phase.
“DP World is developing a world class automated terminal comprising of eight modules, which will drive consistent operational performance and boost productivity,” Raj says.
“Over the last 12 months we have been working with leading construction firm York Civil to deliver this project.”
Port of Brisbane CEO Russell Smith says the DP World automation will result in greater efficiency and increased productivity through the port.
“DP World’s transition to an automated terminal will position the Port of Brisbane as one of the most modern, state-of-the-art ports in the world,” Smith says.