We've written about ports and how they are a key part of the an important role these ever-bustling and still interesting, even a little mysterious, areas of international trade and supply chain maintenance. This role would not be nearly as effective in the increasingly more advanced without the coordinated use of lifting equipment. In today's post, we are port logistics provides an overview of the tools used by.
Cranes
The most important and most visible assets in a port are the cranes. Their many varieties are all working in different fields and on different tasks:
- Loading cranes (Ship-to-Shore cranes)
These fixed cranes can serve vessels of various sizes, including the largest ocean-going vessels or container carriers. They are powered by electric or hydraulic drive. They are characterised by high loading speed and precision, which, combined with their outstanding load capacity of up to 50-75 tonnes, allows them to safely handle heavy and oversized goods.
- Mobile loading docks
Self-propelled cranes can be used in various locations in ports. They are characterised by their mobility and their ability to load a wide range of different goods. This flexibility makes these lifting devices very useful.
- Portal cranes
These cranes are specifically used to sort containers in the storage area. There are two types. The first is the rubber-tyred gantry crane (RTG), which is self-propelled, thus providing flexibility at the terminal. The second type is the rail-mounted gantry crane (RMG), which is usually found in high-traffic container terminals. It is characterised by its stability and high loading capacity and can also be automated.
Forklifts
Also important tools for forklifts in a port, as they are ideal for short-distance cargo handling and can work in tight spaces. One of their types is the Reach Stacker, which helps to store containers with its high load capacity. Its task is to sort and stack containers.
Port means of transport
In addition to loading, in-port transport must also be arranged. Container lorries, straddle carriers or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used for this task.
The straddle carrier can stack up to 3-4 containers and transported at the same time.
The AGVs operate without human intervention, pre-programmed. Their navigation can be based on laser scanners, magnetic sensors or GPS. They can be a key element of efficiency in automated terminals.
Unloading process and means
Now that we've reviewed the most commonly used tools, let's look at which tools are available for which sub-processes through the unloading process.
The first step in the process unloading from the boat, which is carried out by ship-to-shore cranes. Containers are unloaded in order of shipping priority. In modern ports, automated systems help coordinate the movement of the cranes.
The next task is to intra-terminal transport. Container trucks, straddle carriers or AGVs help you to transport your goods from the quayside to the port's inner storage areas. The logistical challenge is to manage traffic within the terminal, and automated systems can help to optimise this.
The containers temporary storage, sorting the portal cranes (RTG and RMG) are used. Optimal use of space and easy accessibility are important considerations. The layout should be designed for future logistical considerations, taking into account onward transport.
After that, it's just a matter of transmission from terminal is left. A the following transport process forklift trucks are used for pre-loading.
This is what a port loading process looks like, with the various load lifting devices integrated to help optimise it.
