Currently, global port development is gradually moving towards green and intelligent solutions. RTG cranes are also undergoing continuous upgrades. Compared with traditional diesel-powered systems, an electric RTG crane is slowly becoming the preferred solution for modern ports. An Electric RTG crane retains the advantages of flexible operation while using electricity as their primary power source, which can significantly reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

Next, this article will systematically explain electric RTG cranes from the perspectives of their working principles, performance characteristics, and total life cycle costs. It will also compare them with diesel and Hybrid RTG cranes to help you clearly understand the technical logic and application value behind different power solutions.

RTG Crane (1)
RTG-Crane

RTG-Crane

What is an Electric RTG Crane？

The electric RTG crane (Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry crane) uses electricity as its primary power source and is used in ports and container yards. It is powered by a cable reel or a sliding contact line system, replacing traditional diesel generators, thus achieving zero exhaust emissions, low energy consumption, and high efficiency in container handling and stacking operations.

Working Principle of Electric RTG Crane

The cable reel or conductor rail system draws electrical energy from the port’s power grid to power the electric RTG crane. Once the electricity enters the RTG crane, it is regulated and distributed through a power distribution system and a variable frequency drive system.

The user operates the control system to issue commands, the motor drives the lifting mechanism to vertically raise and lower the container, the trolley mechanism moves horizontally along the main beam, and the electric RTG crane’s running mechanism drives the rubber tires to move longitudinally or laterally within the yard.

The various components work together to complete the loading, unloading, transfer, and stacking of containers. During braking or lowering, the equipment can recover energy through regenerative braking, effectively reducing energy consumption. The hydraulic system acts as an auxiliary device, providing support for steering, braking, anti-sway, and cushioning, making the operation process smoother and more efficient.

Features and Advantages of Different Power Types RTG Cranes

Below, we will compare and summarise RTG cranes in terms of their power source, operating costs, adaptability, and development trends.

Electric RTG Crane

  • Zero Emissions and Low Noise: Compliant with green port and environmental regulations.
  • Low Operating Costs: High efficiency in electric power recovery and utilisation, resulting in a 70% reduction in maintenance costs.
  • High Control Precision: Fast response of the motor and variable frequency drive.
  • Strong Automation Compatibility: Easily compatible with remote control, automatic anti-sway systems, TOS systems, and fully automated modes.
  • Future Development Trend: Suitable for new ports and high-standard terminals.

Diesel Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane

  • High Independence: Equipped with its own diesel generator, it does not rely on external power supply systems.
  • Low Initial Investment: No need for additional power supply infrastructure, equipment procurement, and deployment costs are relatively low.
  • Mature Technology: Users have extensive experience in maintenance and operation, and spare parts are readily available.
  • Strong Site Adaptability: Suitable for ports with insufficient power supply or underdeveloped yard planning.
  • Flexible Startup and Deployment: Users can quickly put it into use, making it suitable for temporary or transitional storage yards.

Hybrid RTG Cranes

  • Energy Saving: Lower energy consumption and emissions compared to diesel-powered models.
  • Energy Recovery and Reuse: Recovers energy during lifting, lowering, and braking, reducing users’ operating costs.
  • Moderate Operating Costs: Lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to diesel RTG cranes, while requiring less reliance on the power supply system.
  • High Adaptability: Users can upgrade and modify older diesel-powered rubber-tyred gantry cranes.
  • High Transitional Value: Provides a balanced solution for users facing increasing environmental requirements and limited power supply conditions.
Electric RTG Cranes

Electric RTG Cranes

RTG Crane Inspection

Disadvantages and Shortcomings

Electric RTG Crane

  • High Initial Investment Costs: In addition to the equipment, users also need to provide cable reels or conductor rails and a power supply system.
  • Power Supply Conditions Dependence: Ports require a stable and continuous power supply.
  • Limited Operational Flexibility: The power supply system of electric RTG cranes has certain limitations regarding span and frequent changes in operating areas.
  • Yard Planning: Electric RTG cranes are more suitable for newly built ports or comprehensive renovation projects.
  • High Technical Requirements: High technical capabilities are required for electrical systems, automation, and maintenance personnel.

Diesel Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane

  • High Energy Consumption: High fuel consumption leads to higher long-term operating costs.
  • Pollution Factors: High exhaust emissions and significant noise pollution.
  • High Maintenance Costs: Diesel engines require frequent maintenance, resulting in high costs for servicing, replacement parts, and major repairs.
  • Low Automation Compatibility: The equipment is not easily compatible with automation and remote control systems.
  • Future Trends: In some countries and ports, the use of diesel RTG cranes may be restricted or gradually phased out in the future.

Hybrid RTG Cranes

  • High Maintenance Difficulty: Hybrid systems include both diesel engines, electric motors, and energy storage systems.
  • High Initial Cost: Although the initial investment cost is lower than electric RTG crane, it is still higher than diesel-powered RTG crane.
  • Limited Energy-saving Effect: Compared to an electric RTG crane, there are limitations to the improvements in energy consumption and emissions.
  • Energy Storage System: Batteries or supercapacitors have aging and replacement costs.
  • Low Transitional Value: The long-term development direction is not as clear as that of pure electric RTG cranes, and may face the need for a second upgrade.

Conclusion

Overall, there is no absolute superiority or inferiority among RTG cranes with different power sources. Rather, each type of RTG crane corresponds to the ideal choice for different port development needs. Diesel-powered RTG cranes are suitable for areas with limited power supply or temporary yards due to their flexible deployment and low initial investment. A Hybrid RTG crane strikes a balance between energy saving, emission reduction, and adaptability. An Electric RTG crane, with their low energy consumption, zero emissions, and high compatibility with automation, represents the long-term development trend for container yard lifting equipment.

Electric RTG Crane Manufacturers and Suppliers in China

VOITTO Crane is a professional electric RTG crane manufacturer and supplier in China. Our solutions are not only cost-effective but also fast, with a lead time of only about 5 months from order to delivery, and on-site installation taking just 2-3 weeks. If you need crane equipment solutions, please feel free to contact us.