A round up of Port Strategy February/March 2025: Equipment issue’s Equipment news.
Stelcatec Applied
Container terminals in Germany are applying Steelpaint’s new corrosion protection system, Stelcatec, to repair existing paintwork on ZPMC ship-to-shore cranes. The process has been completed at Wilhelmshaven and now units in Hamburg and Bremerhaven are being targeted within the next three years. Stelcatec’s isocyanate-free polyurethane coating system helps offset paint blistering and improves protection against corrosion.
Lithium-ion Contained
A flame-retardant and insulated container that allows lithium-ion batteries to be transported safely has been designed through South Korea’s Ministry of Science. Equipped by blockchain technology, this new “smart container” is able to protect and monitor the status of the batteries. South Korea is home to major battery makers, including LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI and SK Innovation.
Northport Cranes
Northport (Malaysia) Bhd is to acquire four new Super Post Panamax container cranes from ZPMC. Two units will offer a 24-container outreach, twin-lift capability, and a lifting capacity of 65 tonnes, with the other two cranes providing up to an 18-container outreach, twin-lift handling capability and a lifting capacity of 55 tonnes. Manufacturing by ZPMC commenced in December 2024, with delivery to Northport planned for Q2 2026.
ICTSI Rio Expansion
ICTSI is undertaking a major expansion at ICTSI – Terminal 1 in the Port of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The project includes a 100m berth extension, enabling the terminal to accommodate the simultaneous berthing of larger vessels and generally increase its operational capacity. The new ShibataFenderTeam fender solution comprises five Cone Fender systems (SPC 1300, G2.5) with closed-box panels (3300x4250 mm) and 17 bollards with 100 and 150-ton capacities.
e-RTG for PTP
The Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) has signed a deal with ZPMC for the purchase of 58 eco-efficient electrified rubber-tyred gantry (e-RTG) cranes. These new units are being delivered in five batches between March and July 2026. Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh, Chairman, PTP notes: “This investment is crucial to guarantee e-RTG availability and reliability to meet the demands of PTP’s continued growth, ensuring operational stability, sustained yard performance and the upgrading of our RTG fleet.”
Embotech Rollout
Specialist in autonomous driving solutions, Embotech, is receiving US$27m in funding to support the company’s development in Automated Vehicle Marshalling (AVM) and Autonomous Terminal Tractor (ATT) solutions globally. Embotech is planning a major rollout in the Port of Rotterdam, with 30 units being deployed over the next two years. Each electric ATT is equipped with Embotech’s Level 4 Autonomous Vehicle (AV) kit to allow them to operate autonomously in complex, mixed traffic situations.
Reefer Runner
Australian global logistics provider, Mainfreight, is partnering with Identec Solutions, a specialist in wireless automation technologies, to implement its Reefer Runner advanced reefer monitoring system. Reefer Runner ensures 24/7 visibility and reliability for perishable goods and the system’s seamless integration into Mainfreight’s operational framework enhances temperature control and data accessibility.
US Liebherr First
Liebherr Container Cranes has announced its first-ever contract to supply ship-to-shore (STS) container cranes to the US West Coast. TraPac Oakland, signed a deal for two state-of-the-art units that offer a 66m outreach, a 53m lift height, and a span of 30.5m. The cranes are equipped with advanced technology and semi-automation systems. Together with the latest anti-collision systems, these technologies ensure operational visibility, safety, and precision in terminal operations.
