By electrifying the container stacking cranes known as “Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes” (RTGs), the choice in using VAHLE eRTG systems ensures that the rapid handling of containers are conducted in a cost efficient, reliable and safe manner. The port of Felixstowe is the UK’s largest container handling port and one of the largest in Europe, with more than 3.4 million TEUs handled in 2013. VAHLE has converted two (out of four) RTGs with automated telescopic arms, which are operating in the container yard. VAHLE has installed two x 220 meter-long lanes with VAHLE conductor rails with an additional two more cranes due to be converted soon. As the preferred system supplier, VAHLE has also successfully carried out the commissioning at the beginning of May.
Based upon over 1000 eRTGs installed, experiences from the container terminal industry indicate that converting eRTGs to operate on conductor rails significantly reduces diesel consumption, lowers emission levels and less maintenance costs are incurred. Instead of using the traditional method of having a diesel generator to constantly produce the power required to operate the cranes at a high cost, eRTGs are supplied with power from the grid via the VAHLE system in the container yard stacks. The eRTGs are able to automatically enter and leave the conductor system by using a telescopic arm that is automated. This requires no manual intervention (a cost savings): the control software developed by VAHLE enables the cranes to automatically engage and disengage in a very short space of time. In addition, the auto steering (off-track-protection) system also developed by VAHLE ensures fully-automated steering of the RTGs.
“What’s special about the VAHLE system is the synchronisation of the power supply, which enables uninterrupted switching from diesel-generated power to power from the grid,” explains Jürgen Henkel, Port Technology Key Account Manager at VAHLE. The port of Felixstowe is converting to eRTGs primarily to save on the high costs of diesel, as well as reduce maintenance costs. The reduction of emissions by using eRTG enables operators to not only protect the environment but to operate their container terminals in a more reliable and sustainable manner. The VAHLE eRTG system is under going evaluation in the port of Felixstowe for consideration to install further eRTG lanes. The complete electrification of the port is also conceivable.
The VAHLE Group specialises in mobile power and data transmission and is headquartered in Kamen, Germany. VAHLE operates in 52 countries, with 13 VAHLE subsidiaries worldwide, together with agencies. The VAHLE Group generates global turnover of over EUR 100 million. It employs over 600 people, including around 520 in Germany at its sites in Kamen and Dortmund, as well as its 12 German sales offices.
VAHLE supplies customised power and data transmission systems for various materials handling, engineering and e-mobility applications. The main applications are crane technology, storage and sorting technology, manufacturing automation and port technology. The array of products ranges from power rails and conductor systems, cable festoon systems and spring-operated and motorised cable reels, to data transmission and the pioneering contactless power transmission system (CPS®).
With its qualified staff and 100 years of project experience, VAHLE provides solutions that are both customised and economical, as well as an extensive catalogue range.