What is RTG Crane? – Discover the Optimal Solution for Container Handling at Ports

In the field of logistics and maritime transportation, speed and efficiency in container handling are key factors determining the success of ports and depots. To optimize this process, the RTG crane (Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane) has become an indispensable solution due to its mobility and effective lifting capabilities.

In this article, we will explore in detail what an RTG crane is, its applications, advantages, and related services such as RTG discharge services, RTG repair services, and RTG maintenance services provided by PLC Company. Let’s dive deeper into RTG cranes and their significance in modern transportation.

Table of Contents

What is RTG Crane?

An RTG crane (Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane) is a mobile crane with a unique structure featuring a tire system. It is widely used at seaports, container yards (ICD), and depots. RTG cranes are specifically designed for handling containers, allowing them to be easily moved from ships to port terminals and neatly stacked in storage areas.

Structure of an RTG Crane:

Main girder frame: A robust structure that supports the entire crane system.
Base with tires: Facilitates flexible movement within the yard.
Movement system: Assists in relocating the crane efficiently.
Crane arm: The main component used to lift and lower containers.
Control cabin: The place where the operator controls the entire operation of the RTG crane.
Container lifting system (spreader): The device that connects and lifts the container.

Types of RTG Cranes:

Diesel RTG cranes: Powered by traditional diesel engines.
Electric (hybrid) RTG cranes: Combines both electric and diesel engines, saving fuel and reducing emissions.

However, in Vietnam, most RTG cranes use electric engines.

Types of RTG Cranes in Vietnam

Currently, in Vietnam, RTG cranes are widely used in large seaports and logistics centers with the presence of various brands. Below are some common RTG cranes and their market shares:

ZPMC RTG Cranes:

ZPMC (Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries) is one of the largest RTG brands in Vietnam and worldwide, with a significant market share in major seaports such as Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh City.

Advantages:

High durability, precise and stable lifting capabilities.
Offers global maintenance and repair services.
Has hybrid models that save fuel.

Disadvantages:

High initial investment cost.
Requires highly skilled technicians for operation.

Kalmar RTG Cranes:

Kalmar is a Swedish RTG brand, commonly used in medium and small container ports in Vietnam.

Advantages:

Compact design, easy to operate.
Energy-saving features with hybrid RTG models.
Excellent customer service and quick response.

Disadvantages:

Limited handling capacity compared to larger crane models.
Relatively high replacement part costs.

Konecranes RTG Cranes:

Konecranes is a leading global industrial lifting equipment provider, and its RTG cranes are widely used in Vietnam due to their customizable nature for specific needs.

Advantages:

High customization options, suitable for various container yard sizes.
Superior durability and quality.
Integrated with modern technologies, including remote control.

Disadvantages:

Higher investment and maintenance costs compared to other brands.

MES RTG Cranes:

MES (Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding) is currently one of the most popular and best RTG crane brands at major container ports in Vietnam, such as Cai Mep – Thi Vai Port and other ports in Ho Chi Minh City.

Advantages:

Superior performance with durable, safe, and high-efficiency operation.
The largest market share in Vietnam due to its reliability and smooth operation.
Energy-saving with hybrid electric cranes, significantly reducing emissions, aligned with green development trends.

Disadvantages:

High initial investment cost but provides long-term value in terms of operational and maintenance cost savings.

Advantages and Disadvantages of RTG Cranes

Advantages:

High mobility: RTG cranes can move flexibly within the yard, increasing container handling speed.
High stacking productivity: RTG cranes can stack containers high, optimizing space.
Lower investment cost compared to STS cranes: This makes RTG cranes a popular choice for medium-sized ports.
Simple operation, easy maintenance: Thanks to smart design, RTG cranes are easy to maintain.

Disadvantages:

Limited movement speed: Compared to other types of cranes, RTG cranes have slower movement.
Noise and emission pollution (for diesel types): This is a drawback of traditional diesel-powered RTG cranes.

Applications of RTG Cranes

Container handling at seaports and ICDs: RTG cranes are ideal for moving containers from ships to terminals or vice versa.
Transporting containers within the yard: With flexible movement, RTG cranes help optimize storage space and processing time.
High container stacking: RTG cranes can stack containers up to multiple layers, saving storage space.

PLC’s RTG Crane Services

PLC is proud to be a leading provider in Vietnam for services related to RTG cranes. With years of experience in the industry, PLC is committed to delivering high-quality services, ensuring all customer needs are met.

RTG Discharge Services

With a team of professional technicians and modern equipment, PLC offers safe and efficient RTG discharge services. The discharge process is carried out according to international standards, ensuring absolute safety for the equipment and meeting construction deadlines.

Discharge capacity: PLC can handle RTG cranes of various sizes and weights.
Time and quality commitment: Ensures quick progress and optimal quality.

RTG Repair Services

PLC provides RTG repair services with a team of experienced, skilled technicians, ensuring all malfunctions from electrical systems, mechanics, to hydraulic systems of RTG cranes are resolved.

Genuine spare parts: Ensuring durability and extended lifespan for the equipment after repair.

RTG Maintenance Services

PLC’s RTG maintenance services ensure stable operation, extending the lifespan of equipment, and minimizing unwanted breakdowns. Periodic maintenance procedures and comprehensive inspection of all RTG crane systems give customers peace of mind during operation.

Periodic maintenance schedule: PLC offers scheduled maintenance services to ensure the equipment always operates in optimal conditions.
Operation and maintenance consulting: PLC’s experts not only provide maintenance but also offer professional advice to help customers optimize the operation and maintenance process of RTG cranes.

Notable RTG Crane Projects by PLC

PLC has successfully implemented many large-scale projects related to RTG cranes at key container ports across the country. Notable projects include:

Long An International Port (LAIP)

Execution time: 01/2023 and 11/2023
Quantity: 09 RTG cranes from Mitsui, Japan
Scope of work: Removing bindings from the ship, calculating and installing the ramp system from the ship to the port, moving RTG cranes from the ship to the port, inspection, completion, load testing, and handover to the investor.

Nam Dinh Vu Port

Execution time: 12/2022
Quantity: 09 RTG cranes from Mitsui, Japan
Scope of work: Similar to the Long An project, including dismantling, moving cranes from the ship to the port, and handover after inspection and load testing.

Phuoc An Port, Dong Nai

Execution time: 07/2023
Quantity: 09 RTG cranes from Mitsui, Japan
Scope of work: Removing bindings, moving RTG cranes from the ship to the port, completing inspection and load testing, and handover to the investor.

Da Nang Port

Execution time: 03/2024
Quantity: 09 RTG cranes from Mitsui, Japan
Scope of work: Dismantling, moving, and installing the RTG crane system from the ship to the port, inspection, and handover.

These projects not only affirm PLC’s capabilities in providing professional RTG crane services but also ensure progress, safety, and absolute quality for the investors.

Conclusion

RTG cranes play a crucial role in logistics and maritime transportation, optimizing the container handling process. With extensive experience and superior capabilities, PLC confidently delivers RTG crane services, including RTG discharge services, RTG repair services, and RTG maintenance services, meeting the most demanding customer requirements. Particularly, PLC offers comprehensive services with leading RTG crane brands like MES, currently rated the best at container ports in Vietnam.

Contact PLC today for consultation and use of RTG-related services to improve operational efficiency and optimize operational costs for your business.

Reference post: Professional STS, RTG Container Crane Discharge and Completion