Vahle installs first combined STS trolley power–data rails

By combining SMG to transmit control and safety data and the Unipole conductor to supply electrical current to the crane trolley, ‘real time’ data transmission is achieved without delay.

The company claims that interference is impossible and that there is very little component wear in comparison to conventional cable carrier systems or cable chains. In addition, the SMG/Unipole combination permits substantially higher trolley speeds of up to 600 m/min and, therefore, faster container loading and unloading.

The new concept, which is virtually maintenance-free, means new crane design and construction can be simplified because of the reduced weight and dynamic load, which in turn reduces susceptibility to high winds. Equally it can be retro-fitted to existing equipment.