Gantry crane for Port of Kiel

Currently, rail and ship handling is carried out by reach stackers. The gantry crane, which was manufactured in Poland, will now load the rail wagons. The 30m wide crane, which can span three rail tracks as well as corresponding loading lanes, has a total height of around 21m and has a a lifting capacity of up to 45 tonnes.

Dr Dirk Claus, managing director, Port of Kiel, said: “We are investing into the hinterland rail connection. It is our aim to further increase the share of rail transport in the port’s modal split. In the coming weeks, the RTG will be tested and receive its final finishing. It is intended to be put into service on 31 May 2013. Through the new gantry crane’s high loading speed, the efficiency of the intermodal terminal in Ostuferhafen is strongly increased once again. The transport chain rail/ship is further strengthened in its competitive position”.

The port has invested around €1.5m in the new crane. This follows further investments at Ostuferhafen including a new gate and Yard-IT, which are already in operation. The extension of Berth No.1 and the construction of a fourth warehouse have also started.