by Richard Phillips, Mechanical Engineer, Casper, Phillips & Associates Inc. (CP&A)

Since its inception, the progress of the container crane industry has been remarkable in many ways.

Considering the enormous capital costs, one of the most astonishing changes has been the increase in the size of equipment and facilities, with no obvious limit in sight.

The only things limiting ship size are the water depth and bridges between the port and open sea.

Container cranes have kept up with vessel sizes by increasing their outreach and lift height and capacity.

It is evident that the race for lower costs has encouraged shipping companies to procure larger, more efficient vessels.

Terminal operators and owners are increasingly looking to increase the size of their quayside container cranes, which presents a series of challenges that must be overcome, such as coping with increased wheel loads.

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