[Hong Kong, 16 March 2014] Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”) has put into operation two new barge cranes, the first of their kind in southern China, as part of an ongoing effort to enhance productivity, increase competitiveness and raise customer service levels through the deployment of state-of-the-art terminal superstructure. 

Introducing the new equipment in a media briefing, HIT’s Assistant General Manager – Operations Mr. Franco Ning said, “HIT will ensure there are timely investments in infrastructure, machineries and systems to meet our operational needs. The new barge cranes are only the latest investments in a series of equipment upgrades.

We have witnessed an average annual increase of 5-6% in barge transshipment traffic from the Pearl River Delta region over the last three years. The new barge cranes have greater handling stability and will boost productivity by approximately 30~40% when compared with traditional jib cranes. Each crane can handle at least 400 containers a day,” he continued.    

The cranes are capable of handling containers stacked seven rows across, with a lifting height of 18 metres, and a maximum loading weight of 35 tonnes, allowing HIT to handle the largest barges currently in service. 

Made by Sany Group, the cranes involved a total investment of HK$50 million.

Photo captions:
Photo 1: HIT’s Assistant General Manager – Operations Mr. Franco Ning introduces the two new barge cranes. 
Photo 2: New quay crane cabins