Cargotec, in collaboration with the shipping giant A.P. Møller-Maersk A/S (Maersk), has developed a new, safe and efficient MacGregor C8A fully automatic dual-function twistlock.
Cargotec is the only provider whose design met the twistlock performance criteria set by Maersk. During 2011 the new MacGregor C8A fully-automatic twistlocks have undergone several months of trial operations onboard the 3,078 TEU Maersk Bali, where performance criteria relating to safety, efficiency and cargo security were validated.
The MacGregor C8A meets every container locking requirement in a single design and delivers quicker, safer and more efficient container operations.
In 2011 Maersk and Cargotec entered into a frame agreement which covers the delivery of 1.6 million MacGregor C8A fully-automatic dual-function twistlocks during the next two to three years. As part of the frame agreement Maersk has specified MacGregor fully-automatic twistlocks for 38 newbuildings on order in South Korea; 22 of which are 4,500 TEU vessels on order at Hyundai Heavy Industries, while 16 are 7,450 TEU vessels under construction at Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering. In addition, 14 Maersk S -vessels are being upgraded and as part of the upgrade the semi automatic twistlocks are replaced with fully automatic ones.
Cargotec delivered about 270,000 automatic twistlocks in 2011. The frame agreement also includes updating of cargo securing manuals (CSM) as well as training for the crew and terminal operators’ personnel.
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World Maritime News Staff, January 11, 2012; Image: Cargotec