These demands led Nedcranes, a specialist for port, overhead and gantry cranes based in the Netherlands, to partner with motion drives manufacturer, WEG to modernise the overhead crane system at Rail Port Brabant in Tilburg, Netherlands. WEG's expertise in custom engineering ensured seamless integration, plus its W22 line of electric motors, has achieved sustainability and noise reduction at the port.
Cranes are often used in demanding environments where they must withstand heavy loads, harsh weather conditions and rigorous usage. Unsurprisingly, these operations can be energy intensive. Finding a balance between energy efficiency and environmental resilience involves selecting equipment that offers the necessary strength and durability.
Nedcranes, which specialises in inspections and repairs to complete overhauls including maintenance of port cranes, was tasked with modernising an overhead crane system at the Rail Port Brabant rail terminal. The project would involve dismantling an old crane, adjusting its track width and beam length and turning its cat around.
A solution was devised that would involve replacing DC motors with variable frequency drive (VFD)-driven AC motors for enhanced efficiency and performance. Understanding the need to determine indicators such as speeds, transmission ratios, pole pairs, magnetisation currents and required braking power, Nedcranes invited WEG to be its partner and supplier of motors and drives.
Enhanced reliability
A new hoisting solution was installed replacing DC motors with VFD driven alternating current (AC) motors. Replacing DC motors with VFD controlled AC motors offers several advantages, including improved energy efficiency, precise speed control, reduced maintenance needs and enhanced reliability.
By varying the speed of the motor, VFDs enable smoother operation and better performance while also allowing for more flexible and efficient power management.
Lower noise levels
After identifying the necessary loads, speeds and weather conditions such as wind and rain, WEG selected the most suitable motors from its portfolio.
In total, four 30 Kilowatts (kW) motors for crane movement, two 22 kW trolley motors, a 7.5 kW motor for the lifting device and a 170 kW motor for the winch were provided by WEG. All motors, except for the winch motor, were equipped with gearboxes, and mechanical brakes that are a standard safety requirement in the world of cranes.
All motors are from the WEG W22 series, with IE3 Premium Efficiency rating. The motors are also low noise, an important consideration since the Rail Port Brabant rail terminal is located near a residential area.
W22 motor line
The ventilation system design of the W22 line provides lower noise levels and allows a better distribution of the air flow over the motor, which minimises hot spots on the surface and increases reliability.
WEG W22 line reduces energy consumption, offers excellent cost effectiveness and greater productivity.
Finding balance
“In the crane market, you must find balance,” said Van Beijnen, senior project manager at Nedcranes. “Not only in terms of severity, energy, technology and costs, but also in terms of partners with whom you perform this type of large-scale projects. Fortunately, we found that in WEG solutions.”
The collaborative effort between WEG and Nedcranes stands as a testament to the power of innovation in addressing the challenges of the crane industry. By embracing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, the modernisation of the port's overhead crane system enhances operational efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
