The construction of the two new super post-panamax cranes continues to progress well at Southampton Container Terminals (SCT).  The cranes are being constructed on site within Lima stack.

Both cranes have all four legs, both tie beams, front and rear bogies, front and rear portal beams, rear diagonal braces and the main beams erected.  The machine house, main beam support sections and A-frames have also been fixed into position over recent weeks.  In the last few days the cranes have had their booms erected and fitted. The first crane has been energized with a temporary 6.6KV and commissioning of the main motion drives has now started.

Russ Broughton, 206 Workshop Manager, SCT, said:

“It’s great to see both cranes taking shape particularly with both booms now fitted which will complete both crane structures. We have a dedicated team of engineers from Liebherr Cranes, the manufacturer, to ensure that each stage of the construction process is carried out to the highest standards.”

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.