In collaboration with HPC Hamburg Port Consulting, a comprehensive engineering inspection service was conducted for the installation of four ship to shore container cranes (STS) and twelve rubber tyre gantry cranes (RTG) to ensure the best possible quality and smooth terminal operations.
Driving Economic Activity
Situated 550 kilometres south of the capital city of Muscat, the Port of Duqm is strategically positioned to facilitate international trade. The port will serve as a pivotal link in the global supply chain and attracts major shipping companies due to its central location. As a greenfield project within the SEZD, the port aims to diversify the economy by fostering increased economic activity. The installation of advanced container handling equipment aligns perfectly with this vision, providing a platform for best possible productivity.
Cutting-Edge Crane Technology
The Liebherr STS cranes selected for the project are designed to handle ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs). These high-performance cranes which are remotely operated, are equipped with cutting-edge automation technology, ensuring efficient and precise container handling operations. Additionally, the RTGs, also manufactured by Liebherr, are designed for automatic stacking of containers. With a focus on remote operation and automated stacking, the cranes are at the forefront of modern container handling, reinforcing the Port of Duqm's commitment to progress.
Comprehensive Engineering Inspection Service
HPC Hamburg Port Consulting played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this ambitious project. Their comprehensive engineering inspection services covered every aspect, from design review to construction supervision, testing, and commissioning. HPC's dedicated team of experts focused on quality assurance, reviewing construction documents, automation design, and test cases in collaboration with the customer and the manufacturer.
Quality Execution of Construction
To guarantee the highest standards of quality, HPC monitored the construction process. This involved a number of site visits to the Liebherr factory in Killarney, Ireland. The assembly and erection of individual crane components shipped via vessels to their final destination were also supervised. HPC's commitment to excellence ensured that the cranes were optimally prepared for operation at the Port of Duqm.
Automation Testing and Commissioning
The final phase of the project involved automation commissioning, a critical component of the comprehensive inspection service. HPC's automation and IT implementation specialists rigorously tested the remote-control functionality, along with the automated systems on the STS and RTG cranes. By conducting an exhaustive endurance test, they verified the robustness of the automation systems, guaranteeing seamless operations in the challenging conditions of Duqm.
Delivering Personal Rewards
Olaf Schulz, the project manager in charge, expressed his enthusiasm for the project's multifaceted nature, stating, "Beyond classical engineering, this project was interesting because we were also able to bring in other core competences including automation.” The successful implementation of the project, despite the harsh environment characterized by extreme temperatures, sand, and salinity in the air, brought great personal reward to Schulz and his team. Their commitment to engineering excellence ensured the efficient and reliable handling and stacking of containers, contributing significantly to the realisation of the Port of Duqm's vision.
Conclusion
HPC's comprehensive technical inspection service has helped to increase the efficiency and reliability of container handling at the Port of Duqm. With increasing levels of automation and digitalisation in ports, the requirements for commissioning are becoming more interdisciplinary
