Conductix-Wampfler Completes Brazil’s First E-RTG Conversion Project

Conductix-Wampfler, a leader in port mobile electrification and data transmission technology, has just completed a major installation at Portonave near the city of Navegantes in the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil.

Starting in late 2015, Portonave’s full fleet of 18 RTGs, covering 29 container blocks, was converted to E-RTGs using Conductix-Wampfler’s fully automated Drive-In L system and conductor rails.

This is a breakthrough installation in terms of port electrification in Brazil. It not only marks the first E-RTG conversion project in the country, but Portonave also stands as the first fully electrified container terminal in Brazil.

“We were delighted to partner with Portonave for this milestone project”, says Alessandro Cezar, General Manager Conductix-Wampfler Brazil. “The E-RTGs utilize the latest technology to enhance productivity, reliability and flexibility. As a full turnkey project, Conductix-Wampfler Brazil handled every aspect of the conversion of the RTGs, from manufacturing the steel framework, to installation, to startup.”

The main reason for selecting the Drive-In L conductor rail solution is its compact, lightweight design, which makes it suitable for any kind of RTG. By using a completely electric drive system, no additional pneumatic or hydraulic units are needed. Its integrated data transmission system, auto-steering-system, included diagnostic and monitoring system and other safety devices mark Drive-In L as a big step towards complete automation.

According to Portonave S/A’s Maintenance Manager, Marcelo Diniz, “investing in all-electric RTGs demonstrates our commitment to our mission of delivering high quality performance and production levels while preserving the environment, as well as the health and safety of our port operations. Portonave complies with all the requirements of the ISPS Code, ensuring greater competitiveness in our international trade operations and keeping us on par with the world’s best terminals”.

Conductix-Wampfler is the largest global producer of systems and equipment to electrify RTGs. Since 2006, the company has supplied over 300 cable reels and 1600 conductor rail trolleys worldwide for both new cranes and retrofits. In addition to Portonave, in the Americas Conductix-Wampfler E-RTG systems operate at MIT in Panama, SSA Mexico, STI in Chile, Georgia Port Authority, Port of LA, Contecar Cartagena and TCB Buenaventura in Colombia, and APMT Callao in Peru. The company was also recently awarded a new project in the USA and is engaged in negotiations on several more.

Portonave is the biggest mover of container cargo in Santa Catarina and responsible for 44% of the state’s market share. The terminal stands out for its reefer (refrigerated) cargo operations, which account for nearly 50% of the export shipping.
Portonave’s operational efficiency is a result of the use of modern equipment, which ensures high performance and safety levels, in addition to its highly skilled team. The certifications obtained attest to the quality and safety of the port’s terminal operations. Portonave is very competitive in its international trade operations, and has a good position with the leading shipping companies along major international routes around the world.