Combating the wind

From September to March the terminal handles increased volumes of reefer cargo (mainly fruit), but strong winds cause operational delays, especially in the container sector.

In previous years wind delays at Cape Town Terminal have been calculated at between 45 and 145 hours per month, from September to March. Excessive delays of vessels at anchor ultimately lead to congestion in the terminal. Terminal operation becomes limited because of the wind tolerance of the equipment, for example RTGs are limited beyond 72km/hour and ship-to-shore (STS) cranes beyond 80km/hour. During excessive winds the equipment cuts off completely.

The approach this year includes a complex mix of flexible shift patterns and a review of container capacity in the stacking yard. This includes ongoing assessment of available equipment with the emphasis on retaining flexible machinery. Also critical to the success of the plan is engagement with customers to plan vessels better and encourage higher productivity.