Six new all electric rubber-tired gantry (E-RTGs) cranes have been installed and are now in service at PortMiami's South Florida Container Terminal (SFCT).
The new zero-emissions E-RTGs are cleaner and quieter than the older, diesel-powered top-loaders which previously worked in the container yard. Upon arrival in early January – the new equipment went through a 30-day testing and certification process by the manufacturer.
SFCT is currently undergoing cargo upgrades as part of PortMiami's Master Plan. The project reflects a public-private partnership with PortMiami financing the improvements to the cargo yard.
"These electric machines usher a safer, more efficient and more sustainable era at the port allowing us to densify our terminal to handle future cargo growth," said SFCT Terminal Director Mark Baker. "We thank Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and PortMiami Director and CEO Juan M. Kuryla for their initiative and foresight on our port upgrade to ensure Miami's competitiveness in world markets. Our port has a -50'-52'ft depth and is the closest US port to the Panama Canal offering shippers excellent access to Florida's fast-growing consumer market and Latin America business hub."
The new cargo handling equipment is being operated by specially trained longshoremen from PortMiami's ILA Local 1922 and Local 1416. The experience and collaboration of the ILA's workforce plays a critical role in this new development.
"As we are experiencing these challenging times, PortMiami keeps goods moving from ship to shelf, maintaining its role as a lifeline to the South Florida region" said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. "It is important to continue optimizing containerized cargo operations and promote efficiency at our port. We will maintain our collaboration with our partners, and sustain our investment in this ever-growing global gateway."