The Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) has begun assembling the first batch of nine rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, part of a larger order of 28 units. These cranes are being put together on-site by Liebherr Africa, the original equipment manufacturer.
This investment in upgraded equipment is set to significantly benefit the agricultural sector and exporters across the region, particularly by improving efficiency during challenging weather conditions. The newly introduced RTG cranes are equipped with advanced anti-sway technology, enabling them to operate at speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour, even under windy conditions.
This is a considerable improvement from the existing cranes, which are limited to speeds of 72 kilometers per hour. According to Oscar Borchards, Managing Executive of Western Cape Terminals, these enhancements will allow the terminal to operate more reliably, with stoppages occurring only during severe weather events.
Sustainability
Primarily used for stacking and transporting containers between storage areas and ship-to-shore cranes, the RTG cranes were selected with environmental responsibility in mind. The new models are powered by a diesel-electric hybrid system and feature Tier 3 engines that meet the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. In addition to improved sustainability, the cranes also include modern features like onboard video cameras with 3D viewing capability, which help operators perform tasks with greater precision and safety.
The assembly process includes rigorous testing and operator training, and it is expected to take approximately five months before the equipment is officially handed over to operations. The terminal is scheduled to receive an additional nine cranes in November 2025, with the final ten units set to arrive in June 2026. These investments are part of CTCT’s broader strategy to modernize its infrastructure and support the growing demands of South Africa’s import and export markets.