The Port of Hamburg has introduced the first fully-automatic system for monitoring reefer containers at the C. Steinweg (Süd-West Terminal) multi-purpose cargo handling facility.
The ‘CTAS Reefer System’, delivered and designed by Austrian technology group Identec Solutions, is linked with C. Steinweg’s terminal operating system (TOS).
It then records, notifies and processes data for factors such as temperature and humidity that are usually taken down by staff manually during cargo checks at specific intervals of between four and eight hours.
This is done by using tags for containers.
As each container leaves the terminal, the tag is removed and used for the next container arriving.
Once connected, the tag notifies relevant reefer data every 15 minutes by radio signal.
Should any discrepancies occur, these generate an automatic alarm signal facilitating an immediate response.
All data handled remains archived in the system and can be retrieved in the event of enquiries or insurance cases.
Since the end of 2016, a monitoring device tag has been attached magnetically to every incoming reefer container at C. Steinweg as an automatic link with the container’s controller.
Stephan Piworus, Global Vice President, Sales Ports & Terminals for Identec Solutions in Hamburg, said: “CTAS Reefer is compatible with all current models from reefer container manufacturers such as Daikin, Carrier, Starcool or Thermoking.
“Unlike the usual power-line modem solutions, this is completely independent.
“Use of the CTAS Reefer facilitates substantial reduction of labour-intensive, manual checking and documentation input.
“Multiple data input is unnecessary, virtually eliminating any risk of errors in data recording. C. Steinweg not only has an uninterrupted record of the state of a reefer for the duration of its stay at the terminal, but with the box being checked every 15 minutes, also boosts both safety and customer satisfaction.”
Rainer Fabian, Managing Director of C. Steinweg (Süd-West Terminal) in Hamburg, said: “Automated high-frequency data collection enables us to guarantee maximum safety and security for sensitive reefer cargoes.
“Instead of going unnoticed, defective reefer aggregates or discontinuation of power supply are quickly reported and can be rectified immediately. Our trained, expert staff look after handling, connection and settings of reefer containers.”
