Motion plastic manufacturer and cable specialist Igus has deployed what it says is the world’s first mobile shore power connection system at the Port of Hamburg.
The igus Mobile Shore Power Outlet (iMSPO) can be aligned to the ship’s position at berth, so it can connect ships at any point along the quay. An iMSPO system can cover a ship berth of over 400m in length, which means that shore power will come to the ship rather than the other way around. This is expected to give port operators full flexibility while lowering operating, installation and maintenance costs. It will also reduce users’ dependency on time in port to generate electricity, which can result in high levels of CO2 emissions.
Operational flexibility
“The power connection system is a major challenge for the terminal,” commented Justin Leonard, director of cables and e-chains at Igus UK. “Berths are usually extremely busy because handling capacity is the decisive factor for the terminal’s profitability. The correct docking position of the ship for optimal power supply is therefore crucial. Every day, the terminal capacity is planned for efficient loading and unloading of multiple ships.
“Stationary shore connections on the quay limit the connection area, as the cable feed system on board is located in different places for different ships and the extension length is limited. Our iMSPO is a solution that can be mounted directly on the quayside and removes any restrictions on the terminal. Rescue routes, escape routes and work areas remain clear and the crane systems can move without restrictions. We bring the shore connection to the ship without having to make operational concessions.”
Streamlining ship connection
The iMSPO system includes a mobile trolley fitted with a socket. An Igus energy chain system ensures safe and reliable guidance of the cables. The roller e-chain enables long travel distances with heavy cables. The process is designed to be simple and smooth: once a ship is moored to the quay, the iMSPO is moved to the connection point and the connection process begins. The socket box is lowered and the protective cover opens. The ship’s cables can be connected directly and easily to the sockets. After that, the protective cover of the socket box is closed and locked to prevent access during operation and ensure a safe power supply. The socket box is then retracted so as not to obstruct the berth while the power is supplied.
All processes can be managed via a control system. Using the international IEC80005-1 standard, different types of ships in ports around the world can be safely supplied with shore power.
In related news, Igus won the Electric & Hybrid Marine Award for Ports and Harbor Innovation of the Year in 2024 for its Mobile Shore Power Outlet (iMSPO). Electric & Hybrid Marine Technology International caught up with the company’s head of business unit shore power, Martin Tiling, after the trophy presentation at Electric & Hybrid Marine Expo Europe 2024. Watch the video to find out what he had to say about the win!