In a notable move to modernize its port operations, the C. Steinweg Group has commissioned a full-scale overhaul of one of its Konecranes Gottwald mobile harbor cranes located at the Port of Rotterdam. This ambitious modernization project stands out for both its scope and purpose, aiming to extend the crane’s operational life, bolster its performance, and ultimately enhance Steinweg’s competitive stance in Europe’s dynamic logistics and freight sector. This kind of extensive refurbishment, especially for such a critical piece of port infrastructure, highlights Konecranes’ expertise in sustainable lifecycle solutions for heavy-duty port equipment.
The crane, which has been a cornerstone of Steinweg’s operations since its deployment in 2003, will undergo significant upgrades that include both hardware and software improvements. The comprehensive work planned will cover the replacement and refurbishment of essential components such as the engine, electric drives, hydraulic systems, and control systems. Work on the project is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025, positioning the equipment for years of efficient and reliable service.
“Having a history spanning 175 years, we understand that to ensure our continued success, we must maintain efficient and sustainable operations. As the original equipment manufacturer, Konecranes is uniquely positioned and certified to provide a modernization that meets our strict local standards and integrates with our existing fleet of Konecranes Gottwald cranes,” noted Arie Stam, Technical Service Cranes Manager at Steinweg.
The overhaul also includes preparations for future environmental standards and potential energy transitions. Konecranes will install an optimized diesel generator that can run on biofuels, thus reducing the crane’s emissions profile. Additionally, the crane will be configured to connect to an external power source, creating an option for electric operation—a strategic step towards minimizing environmental impact by reducing exhaust emissions and noise pollution.
Wesley Claessens, Sales Manager for Port Services Benelux at Konecranes, underscored the dual objective of the modernization: “Our cranes are designed to last for decades, but even high-quality components eventually wear out. This modernization will not only replace and refurbish outdated parts but also introduce new technology that improves safety and performance, and further extends the crane’s life. We are proud to partner with Steinweg in this investment to enhance their operational efficiency.”
As part of the upgrade, the crane will be outfitted with the latest in Konecranes’ control technology, including a new programmable logic controller (PLC) for enhanced operation control and safety. This software update will be supported by TRUCONNECT® Remote Monitoring, providing real-time data on crane performance and maintenance needs—a digital boost that aligns with Steinweg’s commitment to operational precision and sustainability.
This modernization project is indicative of Konecranes’ broader strategy to support its clients’ sustainability goals while advancing digitalization and technological innovation within the logistics sector. By aligning such projects with green technology and data-driven operations, Konecranes underscores its leadership in the material handling industry.
