Kalmar Offers Practical Steps for Electric Shuttle Carrier Operations
Kalmar has released practical guidance for electrifying terminal shuttle carrier operations, focusing on charging solutions and operational optimization.
Kalmar, a provider of cargo-handling solutions, has published practical steps for the electrification of terminal shuttle carriers. The company emphasizes the role of electric technology, such as its Kalmar FastCharge™ system, in the future of port operations.
The guidance, shared via a webinar, includes tips on identifying optimal charging station locations using advanced terminal simulation tools. Kalmar highlights that electrification offers benefits such as reduced emissions, noise pollution, and lower maintenance costs.
Kalmar FastCharge utilizes opportunity-charging technology, similar to that in electric buses, where charging occurs at strategically placed stations during idle times in the machine's working cycle. Typical charging times range from 30 to 180 seconds, minimizing downtime and enabling high fleet utilization.
To effectively electrify, determining the terminal's total per-hour energy consumption is crucial. This is influenced by travel distances within the terminal and the weight of containers handled. Kalmar recommends that each charging station have two interfaces to allow one machine to charge while another docks or departs, potentially achieving utilization rates of 75-80% with careful planning.
Kalmar also presented simulation scenarios demonstrating the impact of the FastCharge system on crane performance and determining the ratio of charging stations, interfaces, and shuttle carriers. The company advises integrating electrification plans early in new terminal projects or expansions, even if initially using diesel-electric machines.