The city of Boston is home to one of the largest container cranes in the country. The two 205-foot cranes are expected to come online sometime this year. Container cranes are an indispensable part of the shipping industry.
Have you always wondered how a container crane works? Read on to learn how a crane for shipping containers lifts heavy loads and more.
How Does a Container Crane Work
Although many of us are familiar with how freight by rail works, shipping is the leading means of transporting goods between countries. A container crane is a large hoisting device that lifts shipping containers.
The cranes primarily unload or load containers from a ship. Or they move containers around a shipping yard. Container cranes are a type of gantry crane. This means that they rely on an overhead beam.
Unlike moveable cranes that move agricultural goods and other products, a container crane is generally stationary. These are large, powerful machines that require extensive training to operate.
Design Profiles
A container crane may feature several design profiles depending on where it will be used. For example, a full-gantry unit straddles a body of water.
Full-gantry units lift containers from below the ship. A half-gantry unit is very common in U.S. ports and extends over a port’s edge.
Some designs use high-profile arms that swing out to move containers.
The operating system varies widely. For example, some rely on a hydraulic lifting mechanism.
Others use a hybrid-electric system. Either may rely on an electric or diesel fuel generator.
Cab Operator
Container cranes could not operate without the skilled guidance of a cab operator. The operator typically sits in an operating cap positioned above the hoist. This gives the operator a clear view of the operations below.
Most container cabs can traverse the length of the beam. This allows the operator to position the spreader. They can then lift the containers as needed.
A container crane operator must undergo certification and training to ensure they know how to operate cranes. Safety is always a top concern.
Operators are often tasked with looking for defects before each use. This typically means an inspection before each workday.
Learn More About Construction Cranes
Each container crane is customized to meet the needs of each port. Whether using a full-gantry or half-gantry crane, the system for lifting and moving shipping containers is incredibly efficient and powerful.
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