Hybrid system launched

Portek has launched a hybrid system for powered cranes, which the company said will offer terminal operators 50% fuel savings. A prototype of the KAM Hybrid system has been in operation in the Nansha, Guangzhou port, for the last year.

Singapore-based Portek – which provides port equipment, services and solutions, as well as operating medium-sized container and multipurpose ports – said cranes fitted with the KAM Hybrid system will see reduced exhaust emissions and can be fitted with downsized gensets, allowing lower maintenance costs.

It added that the technology will not result in any change to the designed operating speed of the a crane and can be installed in new cranes or retrofitted to existing units, regardless of which crane control system is installed. The system includes a patented energy management system, which does not require an interface with the crane control system.

The system uses variable speed engine to provide power on demand, eliminating fuel wastage. Cranes are fitted with an energy storage device – either super capacity or LiFePO4 Battery – to store regenerated energy for peak power use when required during hoisting. An optional engine stop/start control system is available to actualise 100% fuel saving in crane idling.