Transnet MSoE CP MSOE - Learner Guide - Operating a reach stacker.d | Page 10

General description of the reach stacker The reach stacker is a machine that is used exclusively to move and stack up empty or loaded containers in container yards. It also load containers onto trailers and unload containers from trailers. The introduction of reach stackers to replace conventional large-size forklifts is already a mainstream development in stevedoring operations at overseas ports and harbors, especially at local ports (where there are no large facilities such as gantry cranes) and at cargo transport terminals. The advantages of a reach stacker 1. Containers not only in the first row but also in the second and third rows can be handled (Fig. 2). 2. There is good freedom of maneuvering while holding a container, facilitating accurate positioning at stacking. 3. The absence of a mast allows very good forward visibility and easy operation. 4. The absence of a mast and the low height of the machine allow easy yard-to-yard movement and entry into warehouses, etc. resulting in high mobility. Equipment characteristics Handling performance The newly developed reachstacker has the following handling capacities: .1st row (1st stack to 4th stack): 45 t (5th stack): 42 t .2nd row (1st stack to 4th stack): 29 t .3rd row (1st stack to 3rd stack): 15 t A loaded container usually weighs approx. 30.5 tons so that almost all loaded containers in the 1​ st​ and 2​ nd​ rows can be handled. In addition, the spreader installed at the top of the boom is intended for both 20 ft and 40 ft containers, and a side-shift mechanism, rotation mechanism and forward-backward tilt mechanism are provided to enable accurate container positioning during stacking up of containers.