Container Management In-depth articles on a wide range of topics in global port and terminal development
Terex Port Solutions (TPS) has received an order from Port Newark Container Terminal (PNCT), Newark, New Jersey, a 50/50 joint-venture between Ports America and Terminal Investment Limited (TIL), for 20 new Terex straddle carriers. To be operational by the end of July 2015, the order will increase the total number of Terex machines at the terminal 118.
The machines will be equipped with eco-friendly diesel-electric drives and winter packages for enhanced operation, even in extremely cold conditions. The order includes comprehensive training of PNCT service staff.
Twelve of the straddles are new Terex N SC 634E units for handling 1-over-2 high-cube containers between container cranes and the stackyard and the other eight, higher N SC 644 E machines with a stacking capacity of 1-over-3 high-cube containers are intended mainly for management of the container stackyard.
The 20 new straddle carriers are the first with diesel engines supplied to the US which comply with the requirements of the EPA Tier 4 final (EU Stage IV) emissions standard. “PNCT is pioneering eco-friendly, low-emission container handling in the USA with this investment in state-of-the-art technology”, said Scott Schoenfeld, PNCT’s Chief Operating Officer.
………………And at TOC Europe in Rotterdam,
Visitors to the company’s booth enjoyed an opportunity to view the current activities of TPS around the globe. New virtual reality technology showcased the Terex Liftace 5-31 reachstacker and the Terex Stackace E6-8 empty container handler.
The Liftace reachstacker is the first member of the TPS new-generation lift truck family. As Klaus Peter Hoffmann, vice president & managing director TPS opines, “The Liftace reachstacker and Stackace empty container handler are cost-effective, serviceable and ergonomic machines offering low fuel consumption and wear in addition to particularly easy access to maintenance points to facilitate servicing. They are also designed to be especially ergonomic with a user-friendly cab.
Terminal automation solutions
Battery AGVs also play a key role in the TPS terminal automation strategy. The unmanned, software-controlled machines provide a horizontal container transport solution with low noise and zero emissions. According to Hoffmann, “Worldwide, TPS equipment is working in seven automated container terminals – more than any other manufacturer. Maasvlakte, only 50 km from the TOC venue in Rotterdam, has been one of our lighthouse projects in automation since 1992, with a total of many hundreds AGVs currently in use.”
In general, automation is a buzzword in the market place, Hoffmann added: “Around the globe, the importance of automation is rising. As the manufacturer with the most comprehensive port-related portfolio, TPS also provides clients access to holistic solutions including consulting, planning and management software.”