Laem Chabang International Terminal (LCIT) is a part of DP World’s global footprint in Thailand and is proactively playing its part in preserving the environment for the future. Care for the environment is one of the fundamental core values guiding every aspect of LCIT.
Energy efficient RTGs
At LCIT, the rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGs) are equipped with Lithiumion batteries which enable the effective storage and reuse of regenerated power. Furthermore, the main RTG engine has been downsized to half of the original diesel engine size, and this has directly reduced fuel consumption in an immediate and long-lasting fashion. With the implementation of an engine variable speed control (EVSC) system, engine speed has also been optimised to match unique operational conditions, thus saving on unnecessary expenditure. With an EVSC, a fuel saving of more than 50% has been achieved.
RTG Hybrid Retrofitting System
The Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co (MES) Hybrid Retrofitting System has multiple benefits for end-users. Beside the huge fuel saving potential, reductions in emissions and noise can alter the paradigm of the RTG container handling business. Currently, many terminals around the world have the same problem regarding the idling time of RTGs. An EVSC, which is implemented with an MES Hybrid System, is an excellent method to control the idling time of RTGs.
Testing the Hybrid Retrofitting System
The MES Hybrid Retrofitting System has been monitored for a period of sixty consecutive days. The fuel consumption data of twelve RTGs are listed as follows (Table 1): One can see that it is difficult to compare the performance of one RTG to another. We have calculated that the average fuel consumption of an MES Hybrid System throughout the testing period was 7.98 litres per hour. Considering that a conventional RTG at 1500rpm consumes about 15-17 litres per operational hour, this is a significant decrease. Furthermore, we can see a correlation between the total moves and the consumed litres per move. The more containers that are handled, the better the relative performance (indicated in litres per move). In short, the advantages of the MES Hybrid RTG are: • Fuel saving performance • Reduction of engine noise • CO2 emission reduction • Large battery life • Decreases annual running costs
