Global engineering company ABB and Austria-based crane manufacturer Kuenz have secured the largest single order for Automatic Stacking Cranes (ASC) ever placed by a European terminal.
This order is part of the ambitious “phase 2” expansion project at APM Terminals Maasvlakte II (APMT MVII) in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
The collaboration involves the delivery of 62 ASCs and one Intermodal Yard Crane, all equipped with cutting-edge electrical and automation technology. These advancements will enable APMT MVII to double its container capacity.
While the financial specifics of the order remain undisclosed, the agreement was formalized at a signing ceremony in Rotterdam, underscoring ABB’s trusted track record in delivering yard crane automation solutions for APMT MVII. This expansion builds upon the success of the initial phase, which commenced in 2012.
APMT MVII aims to build on its existing facility, which boasts the highest level of yard crane automation, including fully automated stacks, an automated guided vehicle (AGV) transfer zone, and fully automatic handling of external trucks.
“ABB and Kuenz once again proved to be the best solutions for the handling of our containers. The combination of the reliable automatic handling provided by ABB and Kuenz’s aerodynamic cranes makes this a sustainable choice. This allows us to not only become the most modern gateway to Europe but also the most efficient and sustainable,” stated Hans Jongejan, project director of MVII-Expansion.
The advanced automation, coupled with the segregation of personnel and handling activities, ensures both safety and efficiency improvements, according to the statement. Previous experiences at the existing facility further emphasize how automation promotes seamless and equipment-friendly operations, resulting in minimal maintenance hours and reduced risk of damage to machinery, setting records for the terminal’s operational efficiency.
“Working with ABB as our systems partner for the expansion of APMT MVII continues a success story that started more than 10 years ago in the same location. We are both delighted and proud that APM Terminals has chosen to work with our two companies once more as their partners in the MVII expansion project,” said David Moosbrugger, managing director of Kuenz.
Additionally, ABB’s comprehensive delivery encompasses control and information systems, automation sensors, and software, alongside remote control features aimed at optimizing crane efficiency through remote management. Continuous development and robust revision management enable APMT MVII to seamlessly operate both its existing facility and the expansion as a unified, efficient entity, maintaining a high level of automation and performance throughout.
“We are proud of the trust APMT MVII has, once again, placed in our crane automation and control systems, and we are excited to contribute to shaping the future of one of the leading container terminal operators in the world. The precision, reliability and 24/7 availability continue to make a compelling case for our automation solutions, especially where high productivity and performance are essential,” mentioned Clara Holmgren, business line manager of ports at ABB Marine & Ports.
