Do consumers give much thought to how products reach their destination? Probably not! There is a lot that goes into transport and most times, a port and marine terminal plays an intricate role.
Most major cities have ports, and these terminals play into the fiber of our economy. They provide a valuable service that is interconnected worldwide.
Ports involve more than workers loading and unloading cargo all day. State-of-the-art technology, machinery, and logistics are required for them to operate efficiently.
Continue reading as we shine a spotlight on the latest in the port and marine industry.
Global Automated Container Terminal
As with any industry, it is important to know where the merchandise is at all times. Ports also need the capability to move cargo containers without too much disruption.
The global automated container terminal market continues to grow as other tools in the marine terminal business change. Ships are larger with the capacity to accommodate bulkier container units.
Automated terminals are handled remotely and improve container logistics by the use of the following:
Ship-to-Shore Cranes
These cranes have grown in size over time. STS cranes are capable of moving larger shipping containers faster.
They play a pivotal part in the success of the automation process because they load and unload cargo.
Automatic Stacking Cranes
Like the STS cranes, automatic stacking cranes contribute to the movement of cargo containers. These stacking cranes have been modified over the years so they can handle bigger shipments of TEU containers.
Automatic stacking cranes must also be equipped to handle increased capacity and traffic at the marine terminal. This is due to the bigger cargo ships creating substantial changes in shipments.
Remote Controlled Center of Operations
With technological advances in automation, someone has to be able to control the equipment. Expect to see fewer workers on the ground as remote controlled operations go into effect.
Think of it as air traffic control of the marine terminal. Someone will be in a room controlling the cranes and gates and other movements at the port.
Drone Technology
We’ve heard Amazon is hoping to introduce drone delivery soon to get packages to consumers quicker. Well, port and marine terminals may be heading in the same direction.
New technology could soon introduce computer navigated drones. These drones would have the capability to move containers from one side of the port to the other. Perhaps they could one day deliver the shipment to its final destination.
This technology is not available yet but advances are being made.
Automation – the Future of Marine Terminal Technology
As you can see, automation is the future of the port business. However, with the greatest technology in place, equipment will continue to need servicing.
Having the right supply company to provide parts and services for your fleet is crucial.
Whether you are working with high-powered cranes or a tugboat, Kor-Pak has what you need. We supply crane brakes, festoon systems, motors, radio remote controls, and more.
Check out our services and contact a Kor-Pak representative today!