Puerto Aguadulce takes delivery of hybrid RTG cranes

Puerto Aguadulce has taken delivery of five new hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes as part of an approximately USD12 million investment to expand yard capacity and improve cargo-handling operations.

Once commissioned, the cranes are expected to increase truck appointment availability for cargo drop-off and pick-up by around 30 percent. Their deployment is also expected to reduce truck waiting and service times and improve cargo flow.

The cranes have a lifting capacity of up to 50 metric tons and are integrated with the terminal’s Navis N4 terminal operating system (TOS). This connectivity will support yard coordination, real-time equipment monitoring and more accurate container positioning, while allowing for the future implementation of additional automation and optimization modules.

The equipment will operate in designated areas of the container yard that have been redesigned to accommodate the cranes and improve operational performance.

Puerto Aguadulce expects the hybrid cranes to consume around 45 percent less fuel than previous generation equipment, supporting the terminal’s efforts to use resources more efficiently.

The cranes also feature interlocking and positioning systems that enable containers to be lifted and place only at locations instructed and validated by the TOS. These systems help prevent container misplacement and support operational safety.

Following their arrival, the cranes will undergo technical testing and operational transition before entering full commercial service.