As part of the preparations for competition and a desire to upgrade the logistical preparedness, Ashdod Port Company performed a project to transfer the largest crane in Israel's ports, which will lead to higher capacity for the container ships and will improve the response and service provided to customers.
This is the tallest crane in Israel's ports and it was manufactured in its entirety by ZPMC in Shanghai. The crane reaches a height of 123.5 meters when the boom is elevated. It is built to handle containers and irregular cargo, and it is suitable for work with ships up to a size of 18,000 TEU. The length of the crane's waterside boom is 66 meters, and is it suitable for ships with a width of 59 meters that carry 23 rows of containers.
Shiko Zana, CEO of Ashdod Port adds: “The unique transfer is part of a widespread effort to provide optimal service and to increase the output for container ships. Ashdod Port continues with its preparations for the upcoming competition and we are proud to initiate steps that will upgrade our operational status."
As mentioned, this is one of the most innovative and advanced cranes from a technological standpoint. The crane is equipped with electricity and control systems, and it has advanced capabilities that improve productivity for large ships, including the option of semi-automatic operation and a damage control system. The crane is equipped with a camera system and optical readers, which allow for automatic reading of the container numbers, as well as a digital traffic light system that assists with rapid and precise location of the yard tractors.
The crane is expected to improve the pace of work by about 15% in terms of the time it takes to elevate containers or cargo, and by up to 30% in terms of the trolley speed (entering and exiting the ship). The crane can move at a speed of 45 meters per minute.