A lot of staying power

In specific terms, this means that the automated guided vehicles (AGVs) that have been in operation for decades at CTA in Altenwerder will be used at Container Terminal Burchardkai (CTB). HHLA has even continued to decisively develop this technology.

But if you look at it from Oliver’s point of view, you see something different. He is in charge of the largest brownfield project of its kind in European ports, and has to pull an incredible number of strings. “Brownfield” is the term used to describe the complete conversion of an existing system. The CTA was built on a greenfield site, which made things a lot easier at the time.

Despite the scope of his tasks – and the resulting expectations – Oliver radiates calm. With a doctorate in business administration, he has gained sufficient experience as a consultant and through HHLA projects to approach his biggest challenge to date with optimism. Luckily he has an even disposition. “Unfortunately, I don't have time for meditation,” says Oliver with a hint of a smile. “I have to concentrate on mediation!”

In fact, mediating and communicating between internal and external team members is one of his main tasks. When checking schedules and allocating resources, he sometimes has to balance the different interests of the subprojects. “We can only achieve success within our time frame if EVERYONE involved is pulling in the same direction,” emphasises the project manager.

Bringing together all the necessary expertise is the basis of such a mammoth project. What is it that comes from the manufacturers and suppliers, and what is the HHLA team responsible for? Since beginning work on the project in 2020, Oliver has had a lot to prepare.

However, the projects he realised so far were not exactly easy either: one focussed on self-driving trucks that move between other vehicles at a container terminal. “AGVs are proven technology in comparison,” says Oliver – and it’s apparent that he communicates frequently with English-speaking partners and colleagues.

The first AGVs for the CTB are already in place, right next to a temporary workshop on a testing ground that’s surrounded by a safety fence. Behind it, on the quay wall, are the huge container gantry cranes that are used for ship handling. Up to now, they have worked in a team with straddle carriers, and they have to be adapted to AGV operation in terms of both construction and control technology.

”This is a nice milestone in our marathon run,” says Oliver, pointing to the new Konecranes equipment. “I can finally see the AGVs on our site; I can convert them and have them tested. But we still need a lot of staying power to reach our goal!”

Published 16.7.2024