FLINDERS Adelaide Container Terminal is to take delivery of an Australian first, a cantilever automated rubber-tyred gantry, developed in conjunction with Austrian specialist Künz.
Flinders Port Holdings has finalised a contract with the manufacturer, recognised as a global leader in engineering and innovation in the container handling crane sector. Known for its RTGs, Künz is also among the leading providers of rail-mounted intermodal cranes (RMGs) and automated stacking cranes (ASCs).
FPH says the ordering of a cantilever ARTG represents a significant milestone for the GatewaySA Program of Works, the $300+ million investment at FACT.
The program of works covers multiple projects within the FACT precinct, including the procurement of two additional super post Panamax STS cranes, a 135- metre berth extension, upgrades to IT systems, new terminal access and egress, expansion of the empty container depot, new sitewide services, pavements and hardstands.
The cantilever ARTG will form the basis of a proof-of-concept (PoC) test area where FPH will test the crane and relevant interfaces in a simulated, operational environment.
The acquisition of the purpose-designed crane is a culmination of over a year of dedicated effort by the GatewaySA and Künz teams, FPH says.
The new ARTG is tailored to meet the specific requirements of FACT, offering workplace health and safety and operational benefits that surpass existing market solutions.
FPH CEO Stewart Lammin was excited to sign the contract with Künz.
“The signing of this contract brings us another step closer to future proofing FACT, while supporting the needs of our customers and the South Australian economy well into the future," Mr Lammin said.
Over the past six months, GatewaySA has collaborated closely with Künz to develop a crane design and specifications that align with FACT’s unique needs. Künz’s innovative strength is reflected in its continuous development of new products—most recently with the cantilever RTG, FPH says.
“This model combines the advantages of automated handling for both trucks and stacking areas with the proven side-loaded concept that is widely used in most RTG port terminals.
“The cantilever design separates the truck and the container stacking area and eliminates any potential truck and crane interaction. The truck handover area is beneath the crane cantilever, while the stacking area is positioned between the posts eliminating the need for trucks to cross the crane traveling beam. This design significantly increases safety for both personnel and machinery.”
Künz MD David Moosbrugger said the delivery of the first cantilever RTG crane for the Australian market was "of great significance to us".
"We are convinced that our concept and its associated benefits are specifically tailored to the requirements of the Australian and other port markets," Mr Moosbrugger said.
"At the same time, this project marks the successful entry of Künz into Australian port operations."
The introduction of this cantilever ARTG signifies a pivotal step in establishing the Proof of Concept for FPH, which could potentially lead to a change in operating mode away from manual straddle carriers at FACT.
A designated ARTG block and testing area will be established to performance test and evaluate the cantilever crane, ancillary and safety systems.
“Upon successful completion of testing, FPH will be equipped to make informed decisions regarding the future operating mode at FACT, potentially setting a new standard in container terminal operations globally,” the company said.