This makes SSAM the first container terminal in the Americas to operate 100% on electric power. The joint achievement between Conductix-Wampfler and SSAM marks a growing shift from diesel Rubber Tyred Gantries (RTGs) to electrified “E-RTGs”. Traditionally, RTGs run on diesel fuel. But with rising fuel costs and environmental concerns, terminals around the world have begun to introduce this cleaner and more efficient method of operation.
Recognizing the potential for increased productivity and environmental improvements, SSAM embarked on a mission to become the first fully electrified terminal in the Americas. SSAM began the transition to electric in September 2012, partnering with Conductix-Wampfler to retrofit eight RTGs to E-RTGs. With technical support and training from Conductix-Wampfler, SSAM successfully completed the retrofit using their own manpower. Over the next 2½ years, SSAM progressively worked to convert a total of 32 RTGs to electric, while also purchasing four new E-RTGs from Chinese manufacturer ZPMC, all equipped with Conductix-Wampfler cable reels.
“SSAM’s successful transition to a 100% electrical operation, using their own manpower, is an outstanding technical achievement,” said Gustavo Oberto, Managing Director of SMO Americas at Conductix-Wampfler. Gabriel Juri, Cranes Maintenance Manager, SSA Mexico, added that, “Personnel development is key to our success at SSAM. We are extremely proud that this project was engineered and executed by our own personnel.”
To complete the initiative, SSAM also converted four Paceco RTGs into RMGs for intermodal rail yard operations. Those units are powered with Conductix-Wampfler’s Hevi-Bar II Conductor Bar System. With the transition complete, SSAM is well on its way to increasing efficiency and cost savings while meeting all the latest environmental demands. The E-RTGs employ new technologies that greatly reduce emissions and enhance productivity, reliability and flexibility. “The transition to E-RTGs is a clear benefit no matter how you look at it,” commented Gabriel Juri of SSAM. “We are extremely satisfied with the performance of the E-RTGS, particularly due to the higher speeds and increased productivity from not having to refuel or conduct diesel engine maintenance.”
SSAM’s fully electrified terminal sets the pace for the industry, by dramatically reducing diesel fuel consumption and emissions. The new technology reduces fuel consumption by an estimated 95 percent. In addition, E-RTGs are more reliable than diesel-powered versions with less downtime. This reduction in both fuel demand and maintenance costs will mean a significant net savings each year for SSAM.
Overall, the mutual achievement between Conductix-Wampfler and SSAM in establishing the first fully electrified terminal in the Americas, will mean great payback for SSAM in the long run and a continued trend towards electrification in other ports across the world.