Singapore port operator adds dock robots

PSA International has ordered 22 automated guided vehicles, which will be used to transport containers from the ship to the container yard.    Global marine terminal PSA International said its flagship Singapore facility has invested in 22 automated guided vehicles, bringing its fleet to 30 units.
   The AGVs, which use sophisticated navigation systems, will be used to shuttle containers between vessels and the container yard without human drivers. Delivery is expected in the second quarter of 2017. The new units join eight existing hybrid-powered AGVs at Pasir Panjang Terminal. 

Automated guided vehicles
  The new cargo-handling equipment will be battery-powered and produce no emissions. Eighteen units are being built by Finland-based Cargotec, two by the French firm Gaussin Manugistique and two by Toyota Industries. PSA has also ordered three automated electric charging stations for the battery-powered AGVs.
   PSA said the AGVs will improve efficiency and thereby increase terminal capacity so the terminal can handle huge cargo surges from bigger ships.
   Automated yard tractors are a key feature of the transformed Middle Harbor terminal at the Port of Long Beach.
  The Singapore-based terminal operator plans to consolidate container operations at the future Tuas Terminal.