The client sought to electrify the hydraulic loading arm system for their ships. The original system relied on hydraulic control, which posed oil spill risks. The aim was to replace the hydraulic system with an electric alternative, creating a more environmentally friendly product that eliminates the risk of hydraulic oil spills.
There is no balance after an ERC break in the system, meaning that large forces, up to 400 kN (kilonewtons), must be managed to compensate. Handling these forces is crucial in order to quickly return to a safe position. Additionally, when the loading arm is connected to a ship, it must follow the ship’s movements precisely, with minimal friction. The electric linear actuators need to allow the arm to smoothly follow the ship’s motion with ease, and even extend and retract when not powered. The challenge also involved replacing the existing hydraulic cylinder with electric linear actuators (form fit function), as well as electrifying the current loading arms.
The first task was to identify the correct electric linear actuators capable of handling the required forces and movements. The second step involved the motor control system, which needed to integrate with the actuator’s motor and brake system to control the loading arm effectively. Inverters were used to adjust the motor’s position, ensuring the arm moved accurately. The final step was to develop a control system that could manage the entire loading arm, ensuring safety protocols and monitoring that the arm could return to a safe position if needed.
A prototype of the electrified loading arm was successfully realized, marking the first electrified loading arm for the client. This solution addressed the risks inherent in hydraulic systems and provided a smoother, more reliable operation. The system allowed for better control and reduced the friction in the actuator’s movement, enabling the loading arm to follow the ship’s movements with greater precision and safety.
Kon. Wilhelminahaven Z.Z. 18
3134 KG Vlaardingen
The Netherlands
Kon. Wilhelminahaven Z.Z. 18
3134 KG Vlaardingen
The Netherlands
