Automated Container Stacking Cranes

Konecranes and Eurogate deploy automated stacking cranes for container terminal automation in Wilhelmshaven, Germany.  www.konecranes.com Eurogate Terminal Solutions GmbH has contracted Konecranes to deliver four Automated Stacking Cranes for Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven in Germany, with handovers scheduled for the second quarter of 2028. This technical cooperation advances terminal automation by integrating specialized stacking hardware with open-architecture equipment control systems to optimize container yard density and operational throughput. Partnership Rationale and Roles Konecranes acts as the primary technology provider, supplying standardized automated stacking crane platforms designed for high-density yard management. Eurogate contributes terminal engineering expertise and infrastructure integration, adopting a supplier-agnostic automation strategy to connect new cranes with existing terminal operating systems. Cooperation was required to merge advanced crane automation controls with multi-vendor terminal management software across complex port environments. Technical Solution and Control Architecture The technical solution utilizes Konecranes Automated Stacking Cranes equipped with Active Load Control technology to prevent load sway and enhance positioning precision during container handling. The system architecture relies on standardized interfaces to integrate with the customer equipment control system, supporting seamless data exchange and automated yard operations. Electric drive systems and precise hoisting mechanisms ensure repeatable positioning accuracy under varying load conditions. Deployment and Implementation Schedule Deployment is centered at Container Terminal Wilhelmshaven, with booking finalized in the third quarter of 2026 and equipment handover planned for mid-2028. The agreement incorporates a technical option for an additional four automated stacking cranes at Eurogate Container Terminal Hamburg. Implementation involves integrating the new cranes into existing yard layouts while maintaining continuous terminal operations and safety compliance. Operational Impact and Yard Efficiency The deployment eliminates manual positioning bottlenecks, increasing container handling speeds and optimizing vertical storage capacity in high-density yards. Active load control mechanisms reduce mechanical stress on crane structures and minimize container damage risks during stacking cycles. The standardized crane platform provides a scalable foundation for modern digital infrastructure in container ports, ensuring long-term operational reliability and lower maintenance overhead. Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI. www.konecranes.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing