Cargotec company Kalmar has been contracted by DP World Antwerp Gateway to heighten the three ship-to-shore (STS) cranes to help accommodate larger vessels entering the port.
As part of the agreement, Kalmar will extend the cranes, which have been operational since 2005, by 6m. The company will also be responsible for planning and engineering, carrying out the heightening work, and commissioning.
Kalmar will also install consequential structural reinforcements in crane travel and trolley travel direction.
DP World Antwerp Gateway CEO Rob Harrison said: “Today’s challenges in the port industry evolve around capacity and more and more upon capability.
“We at DP World Antwerp Gateway are confident in Kalmar being able to deliver this project and allowing us to meet these needs in a practical and effective manner. Ultimately collectively serving the demands of our shipping line customers.”
Kalmar EMEA North crane upgrades director Jelle van der Waal said: “Quality and operational efficiency are high on our agenda.
“With professional planning and execution of an upgrade project, disruption on the terminal’s operational efficiency during the project can be minimised.”
In order to carry out the project, Kalmar plans to insert leg extensions under the portal beams in the existing flange junctions.
Additionally, the company will make use of jacking towers and hydraulic jacks, including all bracings for horizontal forces to heighten the crane structure while ensuring optimum safety during the process.
Work under the contract is scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2016.
