What is a STS Crane?

The STS crane (Ship-to-Shore Crane) is a large-scale lifting equipment specialized in loading and unloading container ships at the front of container terminals. The design, manufacture and inspection of this crane strictly follow the international standards such as FEM, DIN, IEC, AWS, GB, etc., and its performance and safety are in line with the global universality. In this article, we will introduce the STS crane parts, working principle, and design of in detail, to help you fully understand STS cranes.

How do STS cranes work?

STS cranes work by moving along rails installed on the quay and can be positioned precisely over the cargo hold of the ship. A crane trolley equipped with a spreader moves along the boom and lifts the containers from the ship and places them on trucks or railcars on the shore. The whole process is highly automated and operates smoothly and accurately. The crane's boom can be raised or lowered to accommodate ships of different sizes, while the horizontal movement of the trolley allows the container to be placed exactly where it is needed.

STS Crane Parts

STS crane mainly consists of a gantry structure, boom, electrical control system, four core mechanisms (including hoisting mechanism, trolley operation mechanism, pitching mechanism, and trolley operation mechanism), trolley assembly, tilting cabin guards, and various auxiliary devices. The product specifications cover 35t, 41t, 51t, and 65t, which can meet the diversified needs of different port operations.

• The gantry structure provides stable support, and the boom design is flexible to adapt to the operational needs of different vessels.
• The four main mechanisms adopt advanced all-digital AC frequency conversion technology and PLC control speed regulation system, which provides smooth operation, precise control, and quick response.
• The trolley assembly works in conjunction with the tilting cabin guard to further enhance the safety and efficiency of the operation.
• STS cranes can be equipped with a variety of specifications of single and double box special spreaders and an optional electronic anti-shaking function, effectively reducing the container shaking and improving loading and unloading accuracy.

STS Crane Design​

STS crane design requires detailed and specialized engineering. Weihua designers customize blueprints based on factors such as port layout, vessel size, and operational requirements. This includes precise measurements of boom length, lift height, and gauge. Advanced software is used to simulate the crane's operation, ensuring that the design meets all technical and safety standards before construction begins.

STS Crane Size and Height

STS cranes are available in heights ranging from 70 to 130 meters and with booms up to 60 meters long. Crane sizes and heights can be customized to meet specific port requirements.

STS Crane Spreaders

STS cranes are typically equipped with twist-lock spreaders that provide a safe and precise grip on containers during lifting. These spreaders can be adjusted to handle different container sizes, including 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot containers. Below are three common types of spreaders and their applications:

1. Crane Rotary Spreader:

Used for handling containers that need to be rotated to a specific angle, often for loading or unloading in tight spaces or specialized storage areas.

• 360-degree rotation capability for precise container positioning.
• Compatible with standard container sizes (20ft, 40ft, 45ft).

2. Rotary Container Spreader:

Ideal for ports or terminals requiring frequent container reorientation, such as intermodal facilities or warehouses.

• Smooth and controlled rotation for accurate placement.
• Robust construction to handle heavy loads.
• Often equipped with automated locking systems for improved safety.

3. Container Tipping Spreader:

Designed for unloading bulk materials or granular cargo from containers by tilting them at an angle (typically up to 70°).

• Hydraulic or mechanical tipping mechanism for efficient unloading.
• Suitable for use in bulk cargo terminals, recycling facilities, and construction sites.
• Reduces manual labor and speeds up the unloading process.

STS Crane Specification​

Note: These specifications can be tailored to meet specific operational needs.

STS Crane Inspection

Regular inspections are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient operation of STS cranes. Key inspection points include:

• Structural Integrity: Check for cracks or wear in the boom, legs, and A-frame.
• Hoisting Mechanism: Inspect ropes, pulleys, and motors for signs of damage.
• Spreader: Ensure the twist-lock mechanism functions correctly.
• Electrical Systems: Test control panels, sensors, and wiring.
• Safety Devices: Verify the functionality of limit switches and emergency stops.

STS Crane Maintenance

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your STS crane. The main maintenance tasks include:

• Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts to minimize friction and wear.
• Replacement of parts: Replace worn ropes, pulleys, and other parts on time.
• Cleaning: Remove debris and corrosion from the crane structure.
• Software Updates: Update the control system with the latest software.
• Operator Training: Ensure that operators are trained to operate the crane safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

The STS crane is an indispensable piece of equipment in modern port operations, enabling the efficient transfer of containers between ship and shore. Their advanced design, customizable features, and rugged construction make them a great asset to any container terminal.

For more detailed information, please contact us and we will customize a solution for your port's needs.