Straddle Carrier

Straddle Carrier

Straddle Carrier is a self-propelled mobile handling machine designed for lifting, transporting, and stacking heavy loads—primarily ISO containers—within ports, container terminals, intermodal yards, and industrial logistics areas. The machine straddles the load, lifting it between its wheel sets, allowing efficient horizontal transportation and vertical stacking.

1. Structural Design

The Straddle Carrier consists of a rigid welded steel frame forming a portal structure that straddles the load.
Key structural characteristics include:

  • High-strength, fatigue-resistant structural steel

  • Portal frame design allowing load passage underneath

  • Optimized center of gravity for stability under full load

  • Designed according to ISO, FEM, and EN structural standards

  • Corrosion protection suitable for marine and outdoor environments (C4–C5 coating systems)

 

4. Drive and Propulsion System

The propulsion system ensures high maneuverability and precise movement in confined terminal areas.

Drive options:

  • Diesel engine with hydrostatic transmission

  • Diesel-electric drive system

  • Fully electric (battery or cable-reel powered)

Key features:

  • Independent wheel drive

  • High tractive effort under full load

  • Low emission and noise level options

  • Regenerative braking (electric versions)

7. Power and Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system provides power for lifting, steering, and auxiliary functions.

System characteristics:

  • Load-sensing hydraulic pumps

  • Pressure-compensated control valves

  • Oil cooling and filtration system

  • Redundant safety valves for lifting circuits

10. Electrical and Control System

The control system ensures precise coordination of all machine functions.

System features:

  • PLC-based control architecture

  • CAN-Bus communication

  • Fault diagnosis and event logging

  • Remote monitoring and fleet management compatibility

  • Compliance with IEC and ISO safety standards

2. Lifting System

The lifting mechanism is designed to safely hoist and lower containers or heavy loads with precise control.

Main components:

  • Hydraulic or electric hoist system

  • Wire rope or chain lifting arrangement

  • Container spreader (fixed or telescopic)

  • Anti-sway and load positioning control

Typical lifting parameters:

  • Safe Working Load (SWL): 30–60 tonnes (custom designs available)

  • Lifting height: up to 3–5 container stacking levels

  • Lifting speed: optimized for high cycle operations

  • Load holding valves and mechanical safety locks

 

5. Steering System

Advanced steering allows operation in narrow aisles and congested terminals.

Steering configurations:

  • Two-wheel steering

  • Four-wheel steering

  • Crab steering mode (sideways movement)

Benefits:

  • Small turning radius

  • Precise alignment with container stacks

  • Reduced tire wear and ground stress

8. Operator Cabin

The operator cabin is ergonomically designed for continuous terminal operations.

Cabin features:

  • Elevated position for full visibility of load and surroundings

  • Air-conditioned, noise-insulated cabin

  • Ergonomic joystick and pedal controls

  • Touchscreen HMI with real-time diagnostics

  • Adjustable seat with vibration damping

  • Camera and sensor assistance systems

11. Applications

  • Container terminals and ports

  • Intermodal rail yards

  • Logistics and distribution centers

  • Heavy industrial material handling

 

3. Spreader System

The Straddle Carrier is equipped with a container spreader designed for secure engagement with ISO containers.

Spreader features:

  • Twist-lock mechanism (manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic)

  • Telescopic adjustment for 20 ft / 40 ft / 45 ft containers

  • Mechanical or hydraulic locking indicators

  • Overload and misalignment protection

  • Option for special lifting frames (non-container cargo)

6. Braking System

The braking system is designed for maximum safety under dynamic and static load conditions.

Brake components:

  • Service brakes: hydraulically actuated, multi-disc brakes

  • Parking brake: spring-applied, hydraulically released

  • Emergency brake system with automatic engagement on power loss

  • Integrated braking with drive control system

9. Safety Systems

The Straddle Carrier is equipped with multiple active and passive safety features.

Safety features include:

  • Overload protection system

  • Anti-sway and load stabilization

  • Emergency stop buttons

  • Collision warning and proximity sensors

  • Wind speed monitoring

  • Fire detection and suppression system (optional)