Already the largest and most advanced deep sea container terminal in Thailand, Terminal D is furthering its aim to become one of the world's first fully remote-controlled container terminals with the addition of four remote-controlled ship to shore cranes, eight remote controlled rubber tyred yard cranes and three reach stackers in June 2022. This will be followed in August with the arrival of an additional nine autonomous trucks and nine conventionally operated trucks, all of which are electrically powered.
Since the start of construction in 2016, over US$ 300 million has been invested in Laem Chabang Port's Terminal D facility and with further investments to come, Terminal D will continue to meet the requirements of its customers to handle the larger ocean going vessels currently in operation.
Hutchison Ports Thailand's new remote-controlled ship to shore cranes are safer and more secure, enabling operators to handle cargo with the utmost care. Using 19 CCTV cameras, operators can monitor all aspects of the operation from the remote operations centre. Integrated crane technology includes a ship profile scan system which protects and monitors containers, while the semi-automatic crane system helps to load and unload containers faster, safer and more efficiently. Site safety is boosted by the chassis position system, which positions vehicles so that containers can be placed on to them safely, and the smart landing system, which places containers softly and safely on the vessel or vehicle in the right target position.
The remoted controlled rubber tyred yard cranes also include a range of safety and efficiency features, such as the anti-collision automation system, gantry position system and auto gantry steering system among others.
Upon completion, Hutchison Ports Thailand's Terminal D will have 1,700 meters of quay length and 16 metres depth alongside at mean sea level. Equipped with the latest remote control and associated technology for its eventual 17 ship to shore cranes and 43 rubber tyred yard cranes, the annual throughput capacity of Terminal D is expected to be around 3.5 million TEUs (twenty foot equivalent units of containers).
Mr. Stephen Ashworth, Managing Director - Thailand and South East Asia of Hutchison Ports, said, "This is a very exciting development that will help us realise our goal of becoming a fully sustainable container terminal operator while also making operations smoother and safer. We continue to invest in the right technology that develops Thailand's infrastructure as it becomes a global shipping hub. In addition to creating a world-class port facility, the new equipment also sees us boost our sustainability credentials with leading-edge technology. With this, we can support all sectors of Thai industry and create further opportunities for businesses to grow in Thailand."
Source: Spark Communications
