How to manage power and control cables reliably on automatic stacking cranes

Container handling is a vital element in global logistics, from European ports along the North Sea to the ports on the east coast of China. 

Here automatic stacking cranes work 24/7 to arrange containers in columns, side by side and stacks. They can travel distances of up to 800m and speeds of 600m/min, which can be a challenge to reliably manage power and control cables.

P4 roller energy chains can safely guide power, bus, fibre optic cables or even fluids together in one system over long distances safely, easily and with low maintenance even under tough weather conditions. 

By rolling instead of gliding, the coefficient of friction on these long travels drops dramatically in the chain when the upper run of the chain runs on the lower run. This means that up to 57% of the usual drive energy can be saved while moving the energy chain system, as well as giving a significant noise reduction. 

The push-pull detection system (PPDS) monitors the push/pull forces of the energy chain. The strain gauge is either fitted on the mounting bracket of the energy chain or integrated into the moving end. 

Over time, any minor fluctuations in force readings will indicate wear. 

For safety reasons, any major change in force reading would trigger an emergency shutdown.

To watch the video of the P4 energy chain system in action, click HERE.