Modelling and simulating the operation of RTG container cranes

In this paper, the power system and operation of a Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) Crane is outlined and the process of creating a suitable mathematical model to allow testing of energy storage is presented. The UK Governments emissions targets combined with the rising cost of fuel are causing industry to look for fuel efficiency technology and strategies. Critically the plant machines cannot be taken off-line for testing due to the cost implications. So a method of evaluating efficiency solutions avoiding this, must be devised. The results show that a SimPowerSystems model is capable of providing a computer test bench fulfilling this need.