Author(s)

M W Ludema

Abstract

Container handling at container terminals can be done with several old and new types of container handling systems, like straddle carriers or Automated Guided Vehicles and Automatic Stacking Cranes. A third type is introduced, based on units with a frame and a belt that runs around this frame by two rolls. This study investigates the economic feasibility of the new system by comparing it with the other two by means of a cost effectiveness analysis over a 20 year period. It was found that the new system is a feasible alternative, so the development of this system should be continued. 1 Introduction Traditionally the logistic process of handling containers at a deep-sea container terminal starts with quay cranes that put the containers on the quay for further transport into a containers stack with for instance straddle carriers. A more advanced and also proven container handling system uses Automated Guided Vehicles that each will position itself under the quay crane and automatically transport the container towards a stack lane, where an Automatic Stacking Crane will place the container in the container stack. In this study a third type of container handling system is introduced, based on several units that consists out of a frame and a transport belt, that runs around this frame by two rolls. The quay crane puts the container on the transport belt that will roll the container into a stack lane, where a special designed Automatic Stacking Crane will place the container in the container stack. The aim of this study is to investigate the economic feasibility of

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