Fourteen Terberg haulers valued at R23.4-million have entered operations at Pier 1 at Transnet Port Terminals’ (TPT’s) Durban Container Terminal (DCT).
The Terberg haulers, which replaced 14 old Mafi haulers, were acquired as part of TPT’s hauler replacement project. The project, which is scheduled for completion in 2019, will see the acquisition of a further 30 haulers in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 financial years.
TPT KwaZulu-Natal container operations GM Brenda Magqwaka says the new haulers will improve the availability and equipment reliability at the terminal.
“The increased reliability will correlate to fewer breakdowns resulting in minimal interruptions to operations. The terminal will also be able to operate six gangs without equipment shortages,” she notes.
The newly designed seat of the haulers has a host of features, adjustments and lumbar support to improve the ergonomics of the machine, as well as a built-in sensor that cuts off the engine when the operator has left the seat for more than five minutes.
The new haulers also have door sensors linked to the air conditioner that switch off when the door is opened.
The machines are equipped with the Mercedes OM906LA Tier 3 engine, which meets the Euromot 3A specifications with regard to emissions.
TPT has committed R385-million to upgrading and improving equipment and facilities at DCT’s Pier 1, which is in line with the company’s strategy to create capacity ahead of demand, and improve productivity and operational efficiencies, with an additional R260-million earmarked for further upgrades in the 2016 and 2017.
DCT is also embarking on the phased refurbishment of 18 rubber tyred gantry cranes at Pier 1, which will begin in January 2017.