International Container Terminal Services will soon take delivery of eight brand new rubber tired gantries (RTG) to support the new Berth 6 operation at its flagship Manila International Container Terminal.
An investment worth US$10.7 million, the new RTGs will arrive in two batches beginning June next year in time for the startup of Berth 6, another multi-million dollar investment. The order will raise the terminal's RTG fleet from the current 37 to 45, the largest RTG fleet in the Philippines and among the other ICTSI-operated terminals worldwide. With the launch of Berth 6, the move will raise the MICT's current annual capacity of 1.9 million TEUs to 2.5 million TEUs.
The new Kalmar RTGs employ the latest technology to provide optimum efficiency. They are configured to provide one-over-five high stacking and six containers plus roadway wide. Precise container handling is enhanced through the latest Siemens Sinamics technology, in which container sway is controlled through an automatic electronic system. Operation speeds are higher than existing cranes but with lower noise and less exhaust emission. It is anticipated that these RTGs will yield fuel savings of at least 20 percent compared to the current fleet.
ICTSI also hope to reduce maintenance requirements through the elimination of hydraulic sytems and extended intervals between engine lube, coolant and overhaul periods, all of which translates to reduced labour and lower consumable material costs.
In addition to the RTG, an order has been placed for two new ZPMC super post-Panamax quay cranes for Berth 6. These cranes, capable of lifting containers on 18-container-wide vessels will enter service in 2012 and share many of the high technology features incorporated into the RTG design.