KCI Konecranes announces the introduction of its new Rail Mounted Gantry Crane (RMG). The new design, which is based on Konecranes’ proven design principles and wealth of field experience, features a number of novel features. After a thorough testing phase, KCI Konecranes has now received the first commercial order for two new RMG units.
The new RMG Technology builds on decades of Konecranes experience in crane design and manufacturing. It takes advantage of a number of innovations; some are recent while others have already proven themselves over millions of hours of use on the job in some other product in the Group’s portfolio. The new RMG technology provides all of the key elements of value– high performance, reliability, easy and improved steering, low operating costs and energy consumption as well as reduced emissions.
“KCI Konecranes has seen great success for its range of Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTG). Today there is also a growing demand for Rail Mounted Cranes, which created the need for a new construction,” said Ilpo Hakala, Director, Harbour and Shipyard Cranes. “The new design retains the best features of the proven Konecranes RTG-technology, including its superior load control and all-electromechanical solution.”
First commercial order from Roadways Container Logistics Ltd, UK
Roadways Container Logistics Ltd, a subsidiary of P&O Nedlloyd, ordered two new Konecranes RMGs for their new Birmingham Intermodal Freight Terminal in the British Midlands, UK. The cranes will be used for the transfer of containers between rail cars and road vehicles. The cranes are specified for high performance. They span 28 m and can lift up to 40 tons one over three containers high. The value of the order is not disclosed, but typically this type of RMG cranes sell for approximately EUR 2 million each.
Mr. Phil Clinton, Terminal Engineering Manager of Roadways Container Logistics is very pleased with the new investment: ”The schedule for the new BIFT is challenging for us. In addition to a tight schedule, we want our new terminal to operate with the highest technology cranes available in the market in order to support a reliable and efficient service to our customers. In KCI Konecranes we have found a provider to meet both these criteria.”
Roadways Container Logistics also signed a two-year maintenance contract with KCI Konecranes.
Key elements of the RMG Technology
The RMG Technology was developed with the goal of meeting RMG owners needs to serve their customers efficiently and reliably while being able to operate profitably. Key elements of the RMG Technology solution include:
Suitable for automation
The Rail Mounted Gantry Cranes provide infrastructure enabling fast and efficient access to the containers. Moving on rails the RMGs are well suited for automation of terminal operations, especially at railway terminals.
Excellent performance and durability
Handling efficiency is not only achieved by high hoist, trolley traverse and gantry travel speeds but especially through superior load control. The RMG is equipped with unique Konecranes Active Load Control system providing Sway Prevention and Fine Positioning Systems. These features give the customer improved cycle times, safety and machinery life-time, resulting in the lowest lifetime cost.
Rotating trolley for highest precision
The RMG provides very precise load handling and features a rotating trolley that enables efficient load positioning for moving containers between rail cars and road vehicles.
Environmentally friendly and reliable
All features are electromechanical, with no hydraulics involved. Utilising Konecranes own AC drive system significantly reduces the maintenance costs and improves reliability providing high security and peace of mind. The cranes feature low energy consumption and operate with low noise levels. The technology also features less wear parts, which reduces maintenance needs.
Remote diagnostics minimise downtime
For maximising uptime in operations, the RMGs are equipped with a remote diagnostic system enabling the operators and service technicians to analyze the productivity and preventive maintenance needs of the cranes.
Further information can be obtained from
Ilpo Hakala, Director, Harbour and Shipyard Cranes
email ilpo.hakala@konecranes or phone. +358-20 427 2660
This press release together with a downloadable picture is available at our web site www.konecranes.com.
Roadways Container Logistics Ltd is the largest container distributor in the UK. They number among their customers many of the world’s largest shipping lines together with large importers, exporters, supply chain managers and forwarding agents. Their three port depots and six inland road and rail connected terminals, provide blanket coverage for container delivery & collection in the UK including Feeder Ports.
KCI Konecranes. A world leading engineering group specializing in advanced overhead lifting solutions and maintenance services. KCI Konecranes is the world's leading supplier of heavy-duty cranes for process industries. KCI Konecranes is a global supplier of special harbour cranes for bulk materials and containers and a leading provider of shipyard cranes. In 2004, Group sales totalled EUR 728 million. The Group has 4,850 employees in 35 countries all over the world.
