ESP – Electric, Smart, Powerful: Konecranes Gottwald Generation 6 Mobile Harbor Cranes are based on this genetic code. They combine technology that has been tried and tested a thousand times over with innovation and, in addition to high performance and eco-efficiency, also offer a high level of intelligence.
With its new 6th generation mobile harbor cranes, Konecranes has transformed industrial megatrends and current port developments in ports and terminals into high-performance handling technology. The first six crane models with maximum load capacities of 200 t and radii of up to 64 m stand alongside ergonomics, digitization and automation for sustainability, decarbonisation and eco-efficiency. They offer terminal operators mobile handling machines that not only reduce the ecological footprint, but also impress with their robust design and distinctive dynamism as well as particularly smart equipment. In order to meet all requirements for handling performance, productivity, safety and ease of maintenance, Konecranes was in close contact with customers all over the world during the development of Generation 6.
Premium heritage paired with innovation
Konecranes’ more than 60 years of experience as an inventor and premium manufacturer of mobile harbor cranes and its R&D strength as a global player are reflected in Generation 6. Heribert Barlage, Senior Vice President Business Unit Mobile Harbor Cranes, said: “Generation 6 combines the pioneering spirit with the innovative strength of the technology leader Konecranes. Our mobile harbor cranes have always stood for performance and dynamism and have always been electric. For Generation 6 we have improved these features again and at the same time offer a high level of intelligence. The result is an overall package with which we make our customers well-equipped for today’s requirements and at the same time give them the code for tomorrow’s challenges, ESP. “
E for Electric: The gene for sustainability
E for Electric refers to the electrical drive systems from Konecranes Gottwald Mobile Harbor Cranes, which have been in use since 1956. Generation 6 is designed in such a way that customers can choose from several electric drive variants. Power can be supplied via the shore power grid or an on-board generator. If a crane always works on the same quay where shore power is available, customers can rest assured that the appropriate equipment will be used right from the start. When cranes have to be disconnected from the grid for journeys between quays with shore power supply, a battery pack ensures mobility – a first for Konecranes. The combination of shore power system and diesel generator is the solution for both quays with and without access to electricity from the shore power grid. State-of-the-art hybrid drives are available for quays without a power supply.
S for Smart: The gene for sustainability
S for Smart stands for the additional intelligent functions that Konecranes has added to its 6th generation cranes. Here, Smart has been interpreted in a particularly versatile manner, for example in ergonomics: Here the new cranes impress with a state-of-the-art cab from which the crane operator has everything perfectly under control. This is not least due to the completely revised Visumatic® crane management system, which also controls all smart crane functions and supports the crane operator with even more productive and safe handling options. Based on intelligent crane functions, Konecranes is also gradually paving the way for further crane automation. Additional focus was also placed on the transparent crane operation. This is done via the YourKonecranes customer portal with the cloud-based connectivity solution Truconnect®, which gives terminal operators access to a wealth of process and operating data as well as maintenance and service information.
P for powerful: the gene for reliable dynamics
P for Powerful is the cross-generational original gene of all Konecranes Gottwald mobile harbor cranes. P means: dynamism and maximum performance in continuous operation – in the service of all types of ships in all terminals and in all applications. The core characteristics of the 6th generation cranes are also being improved in terms of their core characteristics: their core features are eco-efficient with their drive type and smart with their crane driver assistance systems: more robust steel construction doubles the service life in container operation, up to 30% stronger 4-rope grab curves ensure optimal operation of the ship’s hatches and up 18% higher working speeds ensure quick ship changes.
Generation 6 comes with a strong reach
Generation 6 is starting with six powerful models. This comprehensively diversified crane program starts with the ESP.6 model and extends to the ESP.9 high-performance crane; Customers can choose between 2-rope and 4-rope grab crane versions with numerous options; all cranes offer a homogeneous product appearance. With load capacities up to 200 t, radii up to 64 m and 63 t gripper load curves, the range of services is broad – as are the possible uses. Heribert Barlage sums up: “Generation 6 comprises our complete modular crane system, including port gantry cranes and cranes on inland vessels. This means that the new cranes fit into any infrastructure, which makes the ESP code successful and future-proof not only on the quay, but also beyond the quay. “
Source: Konecranes
