4 new ZPMC gantry cranes for Europa Terminal
23 March 2023 | After an extensive tender process, the contract for the first batch of Emerald quay cranes was signed.
Chinese crane manufacturer ZPMC is in charge of supplying four dual hoist cranes. These cranes are suitable for handling the latest generation of ships. They are doing so in combination with Swedish integrator ABB, which is responsible for the electrical installation and semi-automation.
Based on the extensive technical specifications used in the tender, the detailed design phase has now started. From September, the cranes will then go into production at the ZPMC workshops on Changxing Island (Shanghai). The cranes will be delivered by ship in March 2025.
Did you know that these are the largest cranes ever ordered in Antwerp? In figures, that means: 2 cranes with 52m lifting height under the spreader + 2 cranes with 46m, a track gauge of 35m, a reach of 71.8m (=26 container rows with the water-side spreader) ánd a lifting capacity of no less than 112 tonnes under the spreaders in dual hoist.
Furthermore, we foresee a number of technological tools and improvements to optimally support the new operations at Europa Terminal:
- OCR for container number recognition
- Lashing platform - separation of man and machine
- Semi-automatic crane operation to support movement to and from the lashing platform
- Safe wireless control of certain crane movements during maintenance & services
- Automatic recognition of attachments such as over-height stands and safety flats via RFID