Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/715089
27 Connections Summer 2016 expansion also includes the three new gantry cranes, which will maximize container loading and unloading including Crowley's 53-foot-long, 102-inch-wide containers, which are preferred by many shippers serving the island. Crowley contracted with Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd., a leading manufacturer of container handling equipment, to construct the ship-to- shore cranes. Once constructed, the cranes will have a capacity of 66 metric tons and measure approximately 213 feet tall, with an outreach of 131 feet. They will have operator-assist modes, laser profiling that targets containers for precision handling, memory settings and automation modes. And on the ground, major improvements are under way to move cargo in the most efficient ways possible. All of this will be complemented by new electrical, storm water and fire protection systems to support the facility. "All of these upland terminal improvements and the pier and dredging progress continue to come together to ensure our services from the ship, through the terminal, and out the gate to the customer, are the best possible in the industry," said Gilliam. "Purchasing new cranes with best available technology is a key component to ensuring the terminal will operate safely and efficiently." LNG Fueling Faster, Innovative Ships The infrastructure improvements are on track to be finalized by the time the ConRo ships are completed, beginning with El Coquí. One particular milestone this spring was placement of the 759-metric ton main engine in El Coquí by VT Halter Marine, a subsidiary of VT Systems, Inc. The engine is 41 feet high, 41 feet in length, and 14.7 feet wide, and will propel a more efficient and faster vessel that lessens the environmental impact of conventional ships. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a stable gas that is neither toxic nor corrosive and is lighter than air. It is the cleanest fossil fuel available, investment in the Jones Act trade happens only once in a generation." The spring concluded with another highlight: The three generators were set on El Coquí. They will deliver the electricity for the ship's operations as well as for the 350 reefer containers the ship has the capacity to carry. The ships will travel at speeds up to 22 knots, while carriage space will be maximized to allow for about 2,400 TEUs (20-foot-equivalent-units). Nearly 400 vehicles will be able to be shipped in an enclosed Ro/Ro garage. Customers will benefit by increased shipping speeds and more efficient terminal handling, while keeping Crowley at the forefront of the industry. The projects will add to Crowley's existing leadership in the market. "Crowley works hard to maintain its relationship with the Puerto Rico market, providing the best, fullest range of services that responds to customers' needs while looking ahead to ensure our company has a bright future on the netting a 100-percent reduction in sulphur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter (PM), and a 92-percent reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx). LNG also has the ability to significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2), a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. The progress this spring was the result of years of planning. Preparations included visits with experts domestically and in Europe to determine the best LNG engine designs capable of delivering the best possible efficiency and service. That developed into the ongoing design and construction process, where specs for various systems are being developed to most effectively run the ship. "It's almost a once-in-a-career type thing," Gilliam said. "This kind of Left: Workers install the main fuel supply rail on El Coquí's main engine as Crowley's Sam Jones, mechanical inspector, observes. WATCH A VIDEO OF THE LNG-POWERED ENGINE BEING SET INTO CONRO SHIP EL COQUÍ. Click Here for Video