Hybrid power-train for port crane energy recovery

Marine networks are experiencing an expanding role in the global transportation of goods and are demanding an increasing energy resource while being a contributor to climate change related emissions. This paper investigates the optimization of hybrid power-trains for port crane applications. The optimized system is capable of recovering energy in the “Hoist-Down” and other regenerative braking operations. Moreover, due to the contribution of the power buffer in providing energy for acceleration operations, the main energy source can be replaced by a lower rated system. The power flow of the crane system is analyzed and the value of the energy saving potential is calculated; then, the design of the lifting motor is fundamentally studied based on the crane operating requirements; furthermore, the application of different energy/power storage devices in single and hybrid source configurations is discussed based on the crane specification.