19 minute read
CALM WATERS WITH FLOATING CRANES, OFFSHORE STEVEDORING AND TRANSSHIPMENT
Calm waters
with floating cranes, offshore stevedoring and transshipment
The all-electric transshipment crane is designed for high-speed handling of bulk material on barges and transshippers in open and sheltered waters.
Jay Venter
Liebherr’s portfolio of port and transshipment solutions has been expanded to include the all-electric transshipment crane CBG 500 E. The crane combines state-of-the-art drive technologies with Liebherr’s own crane control system ‘Master V’. Another highlight is the energy recovery system LiCaTronic®, which makes optimum use of the energy available. The numerous configurations ensure the crane is versatile and adaptable to different customer needs.
The new all-electric crane CBG 500 E expands Liebherr’s transshipment solutions portfolio with a reliable machine that offers a handling performance of up to 2,000 tonnes per hour. The all-electric drives inside the crane, in combination with the supercapacitors, turn the rope luffing CBG 500 E into a unique handling solution in the market. The supercapacitors used as standard in Liebherr’s own LiCaTronic®
The CBG 500 E has a boom length of up to 50m and handles up to 2,000 tonnes per hour. In sheltered water, the maximum load capacity for grab operation is 90 tonnes and in open water 65 tonnes.
energy recovery system support the increasing requirements regarding energy efficiency. The combination of state-of-theart inverter technology, power storage and application-specific power management leads in a powerful drive system with simultaneous reduction of the required energy. The CBG 500 E is a heavy-duty transshipment crane that operates emission-free and in an environmentally friendly manner.
NEW INTERIOR, NEW EXTERIOR In addition to the powerful and efficient drives, the whole crane structure is optimized for an extraordinary performance. The boom of the CBG 500 E was designed as a lattice boom. This makes it particularly stiff and light, which further improves the turnover performance and at the same time reduces the energy need. The result is a lifting capacity of up to 105 tonnes in hook operation and a maximum grab capacity of up to 90 tonnes. The extension of the cabin and the high positioning ensure that the crane operator has an optimal viewing angle of all processes. The crane operator is supported operationally by the new, integrated ‘Master V’ crane control system. Together with an even more efficient software architecture, it forms the basis for integrating future assistance and automation systems into the crane in the long term.
FLEXIBILITY AS A CORE VALUE With the CBG 500 E, a crane has been developed that can be flexibly adapted to its subsequent purpose. An essential choice concerns the length of the boom, as the crane can be configured with 43m and 50m boom. The longer boom variant offers the decisive advantage of enabling direct transshipment between two vessels in sheltered and open water. The modes of operation range from bulk to container handling and are independent of the area of operation. For installation on a barge, the crane can be equipped with additional counterweights, enabling safe cargo handling in this application as well.
Optional configuration options such as a comfort ascent or additional platforms and boom walkways for maintenance purposes complete the configuration possibilities.
A CRANE WITH RECOGNITION VALUE The CBG 500 E is designed in a colour combination of grey and white. The engine house with the all-electric drives is highlighted in yellow. The colour scheme is based on the Liebherr colours yellow, white and black in order to create recognition. For clear identification of the machine, a combination of logo and type designation of the crane is placed on both sides. In combination with the blue line and the addition ‘All-electric’, it is clearly recognizable. The CBG 500 E is characterized by advanced and zero emission crane technology.
ABOUT LIEBHERR-MCCTEC ROSTOCK GMBH Liebherr-MCCtec Rostock GmbH is a highly respected European manufacturer of maritime handling solutions. The product range includes ship, mobile harbour and offshore cranes. Reach stackers and components for container cranes are also included in the product portfolio.
ABOUT THE LIEBHERR GROUP The Liebherr Group is a family-run technology company with a highly diversified product portfolio. The company is one of the largest construction equipment manufacturers in the world. It also provides high-quality and user-oriented products and services in a wide range of other areas. The Liebherr Group includes over 140 companies across all continents. In 2021, it employed more than 49,000 staff and achieved combined revenues of over €11.6 billion euros. Liebherr was founded in Kirchdorf an der Iller in Southern Germany in 1949. Since then, the employees have been pursuing the goal of achieving continuous technological innovation, and bringing high-tech solutions to its customers.
The all-electric drives and Liebherr’s own energy recovery system ensure emission-free operation of the CBG 500 E.
Innovations such as the lattice boom increase the load capacity and the cabin extension improve the visibility of the processes.
Principle behind LDPL’s BATOS software.
The industry of dry bulk transshipment has significantly developed in the last years, following the raise in requirements from key stakeholders in terms of demand for productivity and sustainability along with the growth and development in digitalization.
The digitalization process, in the shipping and maritime has taken a bit longer to develop than other sectors, in consideration of a natural and historical tendency of the industry to be conservative, however it has become undoubtedly important during the last few years. The dry bulk transshipment industry naturally followed this trend, as an arm of shipping, to meet this increase in demand, performances and efficiency from stakeholders.
Louis Dreyfus Ports and Logistics (LDPL) has developed, among others, two software packages that help in managing better existing and potential new projects in the dry bulk transshipment industry: v BATOS is an inhouse software developed by LDPL and specific for barging and transshipment operations modeling which uses simulation optimization to provide a comprehensive range of solutions for design, operational performance and optimization in any Dry Bulk Transshipment project. The software is able to determine the best modeling complying with an extensive list of operational constraints within a few seconds, calculating the best way to manage all deployed assets and providing accurate results of the operations, using Monte-Carlo method algorithms. Simulations include an extensive list of parameters which model every single maneuver and marine operation. Along with a third party company,
v
LDPL developed an application that allows users to view all information related to existing vessels and projects and store them electronically to eliminate the need for using paper or conventional records and reports. Application is made of one vessel interface, that ships or ports use to input their data, records and information, and a user interface, which works though a web browser and gives to the shore personnel the input of what the ships or the port have recorded. Combining a Live tracking and a live performance analysis, users can extract in a second a huge amount of data and information about the operations in a specific given project, from performances, quantities, speed, consumption etc.
These two tools are currently being used by LDPL to manage existing projects in West Africa and Middle East and BATOS in particular to study feasibility and develop projects with new clients.
The importance of data and how it is fundamental to utilize data in an efficient way is nowadays widely recognized as being essential in maintaining sustainability in whatever business.
Along with the human expertise and know-how in the specific industry of dry bulk transshipment, LDPL strongly believes that planning and execution of medium and
big scale projects require an efficiency which nowadays can only be achieved through digitalization. The company has invested significant resources, receiving appreciation and positive feedbacks from major stakeholders.
Efficiency in the dry bulk transshipment leads to higher productivity, sustainability, increase on earnings and profits, reduction of costs and optimization of the entire supply chain with significant savings in freight costs and demurrages — which is exactly what the stakeholders in mining and dry bulk shipping are currently looking for.
ABOUT LOUIS DREYFUS PORTS AND LOGISTICS (LDPL)
Louis Dreyfus Ports and Logistics is the Louis Dreyfus Armateurs’ (LDA) specialist subsidiary for all Logistics and Port Operations.
Offering its clients tailor-made industrial maritime solutions for iron ore, coal, bauxite, grain and other materials, LDPL focuses on offering a one-stop solution, from the mining site to the end users, with an expertise that covers the entire maritime value chain from port operations, barging, transshipment and shipping.
Having run in the last 10 years several different projects in different continents, LDPL can provide clients with technical advice and marine solutions that can meet complex challenges, thus making a real difference.
Corporate responsibility is always prioritized as a primary business objective in all LDPL’s ventures, encompassing its ability to address the challenges of designing efficient transport solutions, build durable trade solutions, and lead resources and energy supply in an environmentally friendly and responsible manner.
Construction related to board-to-board transshipment in Amsterdam’s Mercuriushaven has started
To make the transshipment of bulk cargo from seagoing vessels into inland vessels and coasters more efficient, the Port of Amsterdam has instigated a programme in which floating buoys in the Mercuriushaven will be replaced by a fixed row of piles. This will make it possible for ships to transfer their cargo to another vessel more quickly, safely and cleanly.
Currently, transshipment is still carried out using floating buoys, floating cranes and weighing towers. Transshipment done in this way requires a lot of nautical space. Therefore Amsterdam plans to replace the existing buoys with a permanent set-up.
MORE EFFICIENT AND SAFER DUE TO FIXED ROW OF POSTS With a fixed arrangement, the seagoing vessel is moored to a fixed fendering system with separate mooring posts. The floating cranes and weighing towers are also located on this barrier. Ships then come alongside to be loaded. The seagoing vessels, each between approximately 80 and 295 metres long, are then in the same position. This makes it easier and safer for them to pass each other. For example, there is no drift if there is a strong wind. And because the cranes and weighing towers remain moored to the railings during both the arrival and departure of the sea-going vessels, fewer transport movements take place. This saves on exhaust gas emissions and contributes to a shorter handling time for unloading. Finally, the fixed installation offers the option of later installing shore power for ships and cranes.
BERTH MERCURIUSHAVEN OUT OF USE The replacement of the first set of buoys by a permanent set-up started on Monday 12 September. During this work, which will last until the end of October, the Mercuriushaven berth will be out of use. In the course of 2023, a decision will be taken as to whether to also replace the second set of buoys with a permanent set-up.
This assignment will be carried out under the management of Arcadis and by De Klerk Waterbouw. The project is made possible in part by an EU grant of €2.7 million under the programme CEF (Connecting Europe Facility | Innovation and Networks Executive Agency.
Since its creation, SAFEEN, part of AD Ports Group, has delivered on its promise to provide world-class marine services to both local (UAE) and international customers, with an unwavering commitment to excellence and safety. By focusing on three key areas — marine services, transshipment, and offshore logistics & feeders services — it delivers a range of marine services.
SAFEEN Transshipment facilitates the shipment of dry bulk from oversized vessels that cannot dock in draft restricted ports. Every year, it transships millions of tonnes of cargo for its clients.
SAFEEN TRANSSHIPMENT
OPTIMIZING EFFICIENCY AND ECONOMY SAFEEN provides world-class trans shipment services combining project experience with extensive infrastructure capability, and low operational costs.
SAFEEN Transshipments’ trans shipment vessel HAFEET is the largest commercial bulk vessel registered under the UAE flag and transships inbound iron ore pellets for Emirate Steel, featuring: v state-of-the-art cranes and conveyor system; v summer deadweight of up to 101,648 metric tonnes; v seven holds for cargo storage; v assisted by three self-propelled and self-discharging barges, tugs and speed boats; v marine transshipment services; and v bulk cargo handling.
AD Ports Group’s SAFEEN Feeders and Invictus Investment sign strategic agreement to own & operate five bulkers under long-term contract
On 26 September 2022, AD Ports Group’s SAFEEN Feeders signed a major agreement with Invictus Investment to launch a new international dry bulk shipping service.
Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will purchase ships through Special Purpose Vehicles, owned 85% by SAFEEN Feeders and 15% by Invictus Investment. In addition, SAFEEN Feeders and Invictus Investment will form a joint venture to operate the service. The joint venture will be owned 51% by SAFEEN Feeders and 49% by Invictus Investment.
The two companies are expected to initially commit approximately AED463 million (US$126 million) for the investment in the vessels. Five ships of varying sizes are expected to be deployed within six months, starting in September 2022, with additional vessels envisaged as part of future growth plans.
The joint venture will serve as the carrier for Invictus’ dry bulk trading business, which currently ships more than three million tonnes of commodities annually, principally wheat and comple mentary grains. The majority of the ships’ capacity will be provided to support this business.
In addition, the joint venture will also extend its commercial bulk shipping services to other companies globally, with an initial focus on the Red Sea and Pacific corridors, the Indian sub-continent as well as the Black Sea region, and with the capacity to ship to anywhere in the world within international navigating limits.
Under the joint venture agreement, Invictus Investment will commercially operate the vessels, and with Invictus’ large existing trading volumes added to the program, it is expected to generate strong returns on the investment.
Invictus, which was listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) in June 2022 under the ticker INVICTUS, has leveraged its core competency in wheat trading to diversify into complementary grains, as well as cotton, groundnuts, meat, other commodities and finished goods. SAFEEN Feeders, which launched in 2020, has significantly expanded its fleet over the past two years, deploying new vessels of varying sizes and capacities for bulk and container services, boosting overall capacity to 23,400 TEUs.
Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said “Under the guidance of our wise leadership, AD Ports Group continues to invest in new initiatives that stimulate economic diversification and support the recovery of international trade.
This is an important agreement for AD Ports Group as we look to expand the diverse portfolio of international dry bulk services that we provide for customers and strengthen food security in the region and around the world. Aligning SAFEEN Feeders shipping expertise with Invictus’ diverse sourcing network will help create a significant new operator, with global reach and a modern fleet.”
Amir Abdellatif, Chief Executive Officer of Invictus Investment Company, said “Invictus Investment has rapidly developed into a multi-continent operational reach to support trade of a wide variety of commodities, agro-foods, and finished goods.
SHIPPING & TRANSPORT ‘Mark W. Barker’: first US-flagged Great Lakes bulk carrier in nearly 40 years
General arrangement drawing of the new vessel M/V Mark W. Barker. (Interlake Steamship Co.)
At the end of July, 2022, nearly three years after the first cut of steel for the first Great Lakes freighter in nearly 40 years, the 639foot Mark W. Barker embarked on her maiden voyage from Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding. “This is a monumental day for our company and the US flag fleet as our much-anticipated freighter departs on her first voyage in what will be a long life of service on the Great Lakes,” said Mark W. Barker, President of The Interlake Steamship Company and namesake of the vessel — the company’s first new build since 1981. “The construction of this vessel, which was made from steel manufactured in Indiana, from iron ore delivered by vessel from Minnesota, reinforces our long-term commitment to shipping and delivering essential cargoes for our customers throughout the region.” The Mark W. Barker departed the Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin shipyard at 10:36 Eastern time on the 27th of July 2022, for her 110-mile journey to Port Inland, Michigan where her crew of 21 professional mariners loaded stone, which was delivered to Muskegon, Michigan. Once delivered, that stone cargo went into ready-mix concrete production.
“This new vessel not only brings with it additional cargo carrying capacity and capabilities, it is the most versatile in our fleet and strategically sized to navigate into nearly any port on the Great Lakes,” says Brendan P. O’Connor, Vice President of Marketing and Marine Traffic. “The Mark W. Barker will give us unmatched ability for cargo operations and to carry unique project cargoes because of both her square-shaped cargo hold and larger hatch openings. She truly was designed to be a vessel for the future.”
Under construction since August 2019, the Mark W. Barker was built by hundreds of dedicated workers at the Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, shipyard.
“We couldn’t be prouder to add this skillfully constructed vessel to our growing Interlake fleet,” says Barker, who was at the shipyard this week to personally wish the best to the ship’s crew fitting out the new vessel. “It has been genuinely inspiring to see the dedication and workmanship from all of those involved in this multi-year project, from the design, construction, final outfitting and successful sea trials. We are thrilled to add our newest US-crewed, USbuilt and US-owned vessel to the Great Lakes fleet.”
Mark W. Barker will transport raw materials such as salt, iron ore, and stone to support manufacturing throughout the Great Lakes region.
The Interlake Steamship Company, Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, and Bay Engineering jointly designed the bulk carrier, complete with advanced vessel and unloading systems automation. The carrier was built by FBS’s nearly 700 skilled trade workers. Major partners for the project include Cargill, Cleveland-Cliffs, SherwinWilliams, American Bureau of Shipping, Bay Engineering, EMD Engines, Caterpillar, EMSTech, Lufkin (a GE Company), Kongsberg and MacGregor.
Between May 5 and 12, 2022, Canada Steamship Lines’ new diesel-electric selfunloading vessel, Nukumi, successfully completed its inaugural loading and discharge of deicing salt for Windsor Salt.
“The successful launch of Nukumi’s operations is the culmination of many years of planning with our visionary partner, Windsor Salt, to achieve the next level of safe, sustainable and efficient shipping in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Great Lakes region,” said Louis Martel, President and CEO, The CSL Group.
“We are extremely proud of our vessel’s early performance, which is a testament to the expertise, ingenuity and skill of our design and newbuild teams who conceived Nukumi, and of our seafarers who are now operating this highly sophisticated ship.”
Purpose-designed to service Windsor Salt’s deicing salt shipping and handling needs in Eastern Canada, the vessel’s stateof-the-art technology and innovative features were put to the test for the first time during loading at the Mines Seleines salt mine in the Magdalene Islands and during the discharge in Montreal.
On her first trip to the Mines Seleine salt mine, the ship’s modern hull design and twin-fin diesel-electric propulsion system demonstrated the vessel’s ability to transit through narrow channels more quickly, at lower tide and with exceptional manoeuvrability.
The ship’s fully automated single point of loading and state-of-the-art cargo handling systems performed as designed and eliminated the need for vessel shifting during loading, making for a safer and more efficient operation.
During discharge in Montreal, the vessel’s shuttle discharge boom arrangement significantly reduced shifting, while sensor technology installed on the boom and programmed to auto-pile mode contributed to saving time and crew effort. Several innovations built into the design of Nukumi are also reducing the ship’s overall environmental footprint and are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants by 25% and 80% respectively, compared with previous ships servicing the same routes. These include diesel-electric tier 3 engines, a
ballast water treatment system, a waste heat recovery system, and overall quieter machinery.
“Canadians count on the critical deicing salts that Nukumi will deliver to stockpiles throughout Eastern Canada to help keep roadways safe during the winter,” said Luc B. Savoie, Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, Windsor Salt Ltd. “Reducing the environmental impact of shipping our deicing salt and ensuring everyone’s safety are important objectives at Windsor Salt, and we are delighted that this new, advanced ship will help us achieve both.”
CSL is grateful to the Ministère des Transports du Québec for its financial contribution as part of the Ministry’s program to improve the efficiency of marine, air and rail transportation.
“With Avantage Saint-Laurent, our government has given Quebec a clear vision for the marine industry: aligning economic development and protecting ecosystems. CSL’s Nukumi is a perfect example to what we want to do on the St. Lawrence. I am very proud to support this project, which uses innovative marine transportation practices that respect the environment, and has concrete benefits for communities,” said Chantal Rouleau, Quebec’s Minister for Transport.
MORE SUSTAINABLE MARINE TRANSPORTATION Windsor Salt and CSL worked together to bring several innovations to enhance sustainability and reduce the environmental footprint of the new ship including: v Diesel-electric tier 3 engines and a unique hull design that will contribute to cutting
CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency; v A ballast water treatment system that is expected to reduce the transfer of invasive species; v Quieter machinery that will reduce vessel noise to protect the area’s North
Atlantic right whales and other marine mammals; v Compared to the previous vessel servicing the same salt routes, the new ship is expected to emit approximately 25% less greenhouse gas emissions and 80% fewer harmful air pollutants.
SAFER AND MORE EFFICIENT SHIPPING The new ship also features several innovations to enhance efficiency and safety including: v A fixed, single point of loading system with a single hopper into which the salt is loaded, combined with a cargo handling system that eliminates the need for the vessel to shift during loading, which will improve the efficiency of cargo operations and the safety of ship and shore personnel. v A modern hull design and state-of-the-art propulsion system to enhance the manoeuvrability of the vessel and increase the safety of navigation in the shallow
Magdalen Island channel.
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