PSA invests in automation
PSA Singapore Terminals (PSA) has made a strategic investment in automation technologies to help maintain its status as one of the world’s largest transhipment hubs.
It is investing in the development of Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) prototypes which it says will operate 24/7 and make container yard and quay more efficient.
This is a move to enhance port productivity, as it prepares to increase capacity to handle more volumes in the near future and long term.
The tender to develop two AGV prototypes each with energy-efficient hybrid technology has been awarded to Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd and Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Company Ltd. While Cargotec has been awarded the contract for the navigation system that will drive the vehicle units in the port. A series of pilot trials will be conducted over the next two years.
Mr Tan Puay Hin, regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International, said: “Land optimisation, manpower productivity and the environment are all important considerations in our Singapore operations. Our investment in automation and green technologies would enable us to overcome these challenges and further enhance the skill sets of port employees.”
PSA and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) are collaborating to conduct research and test new technologies for future container terminals under the Port Technology Research and Development Programme – which PSA and MPA both help fund.
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