The construction of the two new super post-panamax cranes at Southampton Container Terminals (SCT) is progressing well since the arrival of the components at the end of March.

The first of the two new cranes now has all four legs, both tie beams, front and rear bogies, front and rear portal beams, rear diagonal braces and the main beam erected. Over the past few days, the machine house and main beam support sections have been fixed into position (see photo). Over the next few weeks the crane will take even greater shape with the A-frame, personnel lift and boom being erected.

Russ Broughton, 206 Workshop Manager, SCT, said:

“It’s great to see the first crane really starting to take shape now with the second crane following closely behind. We have a dedicated team of Engineers from Liebherr Cranes, the manufacturer, who are working with us on the construction and I’m looking forward to seeing the next stage.”

The two new super post-panamax gantry cranes are scheduled to be commissioned into operation in June this year and when operational will be able to reach across vessels 22 containers wide and service vessels on berths 205 and 206.

SCT has also recently placed another order with Liebherr Cranes for a further two super post-panamax gantry cranes, representing an investment in excess of £10 million. These cranes will be delivered into operation in August 2009.