Continuing the tradition set by its highly popular 6th generation machines, Kalmar is launching its latest generation of high-performance straddle carriers.
The right machine for every application
The new carriers come in two basic types: the proven CSC Smoothlift™ hoist series and the enhanced Kalmar Edrive® ESC Smoothlift™ hoist or winch rope hoist (W) series. The ESC carriers are equipped with AC drives to meet the strictest environmental standards.
The basic variation available in both series is the choice between either 3-high or 4-high stacking and the ability to lift 40 tons or twinlift 50 tons.
The carriers are highly modular in design and thus offer a great deal of flexibility when choosing optimum features, explains says Ilkka Annala, Vice President, Kalmar Straddle Carriers:
“The machines have the same proven base structure and components but it is possible to tailor them to various applications according to customer needs.”
A powerful evolution creates the ultimate driver’s machine
The new straddle carriers hold firm to Kalmar's philosophy of constantly introducing new technology to boost the materials handling capabilities of its customers all over the world, states Mr Annala:
“This is not about revolution; it’s all about evolution. We have built the world’s most solid and durable straddle carriers for years but now customers are looking for solutions that help them perform better in the future. Automation, heavier load handling possibilities and minimised operational costs are just a few of the many ways we can help customers work smarter by using our 7th generation straddle carriers.
“We see the 7th generation as an answer to the current trends in the market. Customers are shifting from mechanical to electric machines, from manual to automated operation, from onsite troubleshooting to remote assistance through our latest state-of-the-art RMI system.”
The many improvements add up to substantially enhanced performance. For example, the ESC EDRIVE® straddle carrier now has a simpler, stronger but at the same time lighter structure for better performance, reduced maintenance and improved fuel-efficiency; a new W-type cabin design with optional 180 degree rotating seat which, together with the very rigid Kalmar machine frame, contributes to improved operator ergonomics and makes the Kalmar straddle carrier the ultimate “driver’s machine”.
Higher productivity, lower operating costs
Kalmar explains that thanks to the new sideframe structure that has been dimensioned to withstand continuous handling of heavy 50-ton loads, the new 7th generation straddle carrier is the best long-term investment for modern terminals, especially where twinlift container handling is becoming more important. The Kalmar ESC straddle, with its new cooled heavy duty wet disc brakes, high power 336kW single diesel engine and AC electrical system with regenerative power distribution between hoist and drive function, provides higher productivity but reduced fuel consumption.
Fully electric option
The 7th generation series includes models with an advanced AC drive system for smoother operations, lower emissions and improved performance, says Mr Annala:
“As a result, the carriers are faster to operate. They can handle more containers per hour while consuming less fuel. In this way, we achieve lower operating costs while contributing to environmental sustainability. It’s the way of the future.”
Also contributing to the environment are smaller hydraulic oil volumes, regenerative electrical braking as well as a generally lower noise level.
Make things easy with advanced RMI
The new carriers have been designed to be fully compatible with Kalmar’s new remote maintenance interface (RMI) system. As a result, it is now possible to monitor the condition of carriers remotely. This allows Kalmar to support customers not only directly through the Kalmar local service network but also world-wide from Kalmar offices and factories via the internet, explains Mr Annala:
“With RMI, our top specialists can be readily available for troubleshooting should problems arise, and to advise on maintenance questions. As a result, we are providing for more efficient fleet management and higher uptime, with a direct improvement on the customer’s bottom line.”
A range of DRAFs™ (driver assisting features) improve and facilitate the operator in his work. These include Smartpath® container position verification, APP™ (auto-pick-and-place), automatic spreader sideshift, automatic spreader slowdown when approaching a container, and a PLC integrated load-weighing system.
Kalmar’s automation leadership is also evident in that all Kalmar 7th generation straddle carriers can be automated at a later date if this has not already been set up at the time of manufacture. The carriers come with CAN-bus PLC, fly-by-wire controls and directly PLC controlled engines and AC drives, in addition to the RMI capability.
Notes to editors:
Press information can be found on Kalmar’s website www.kalmarind.com. Simply click on News Room to be taken to a list of recent press releases or on Press Pictures to be taken to the Kalmar photo gallery.
The caption for the photograph reads:
"Kalmar is maintaining its lead in straddle carrier development with its new 7th generation machines. The Kalmar
EDRIVE® ESC 340 W, seen here, is attracting attention from major terminal operators worldwide."Kalmar is a global provider of heavy duty materials handling equipment and services to ports, intermodal traffic, terminals and demanding industrial customers. Kalmar focuses on supplying handling solutions that enable customers to operate with a high level of efficiency and reliability. Every fourth container or trailer transfer at terminals around the world is handled by a Kalmar machine.
Kalmar provides a large range of value added services such as maintenance contracts and fleet management. Manufacturing plants are situated in Sweden (as is the head office), in Finland, the Netherlands, Estonia, Malaysia, China and the USA.
For futher information:
Aija Kalander
Website: www.kalmarind.com