April 2011 - Malnor

The Mobicon machine: used by logistics
companies at ports throughout the world to
safely transport containers
The mobile Mobicon container handling system from
BLT is used at ports throughout the world to safely
transport containers into secure warehouses for
efficient inspection procedures.
“This innovative mobile container handling system, which
safely lifts loads onto and off trucks and carries containers
securely around sites and into examination facilities,
ensures optimum efficiency for customs authorities which
require fast container turnaround times,” says Clinton van
den Berg, products manager for BLT. “Customs services are
now able to avoid port congestion by also receiving
containers at night for the next morning’s inspection shift.
This is an important factor when handling large shipments
of containers. It means authorities are able to dictate their
own workflow and are not reliant on transporters waiting in a
queue at the port. This also further reduces the chances of
demurrage costs or over-stay at the port.
“Many unloading harbour yards are not designed to carry
heavy container handling equipment. Pavements don’t meet
specified requirements and very often yards themselves are
small and narrow and cannot withstand the use of
heavy vehicles.
“An important advantage of this flexible system is that it
utilises all parts of the yard and can turn in tight spaces
and operate where conventional container handling
equipment cannot go. The Mobicon can travel under
awnings, through warehouse doors, inside buildings
and up to docks which is very convenient, especially in wet
weather conditions. Containers are now effectively taken
directly to examination facilities and this capability, apart
from speeding up inspections, also increases
goods security.”
This flexible system has a 33-ton lift capacity and is able to
carry any size or type ISO specified container, without the
need for modifications or additional lifting equipment. With
EXPORT & IMPORT SA // APRIL 2011
Advertorial
Fast, safe container handling
“ . . . a reputation as the fastest and safest container handler . . . ”
this system, which is one of the lightest container handlers
in the world, there is no need to couple and uncouple
trailers from prime-movers during the unloading
of containers.
The container is lifted from the bottom, which allows the
operator to easily handle flat beds, tank containers, half
heights, over heights and curtain sided containers. The
two tower design provides the flexibility to be able to
operate on slightly sloping or uneven surfaces, as well as
compacted gravel yards, bitumen or standard lightweight
concrete.
Enhanced safety has also been critical in the design of this
system. The operator now has a clear view of the working
area and does not have to travel with a container 3 metres
in the air, as with conventional systems. Instead of staff
having to work at a trailer’s height, they are now able to
work safely at ground level.
The Mobicon, with a reputation as the fastest and safest
container handler on the market, also requires minimal
maintenance. The simple design of the low-maintenance
machine utilises an economical four cylinder 60 hp diesel
engine, coupled to a hydrostatic drive system, for reduced
fuel costs (consumption is 5 litres an hour compared to
22 litres an hour for other machines.
The container handling system, which is easy to operate and
does not require a special licence, guarantees customs
authorities improved efficiencies, faster handling times and
increased safety.
This efficient Mobicon container handling system, which is
manufactured in Australia, is available exclusively throughout
Africa from BLT. The company offers a technical advisory,
parts and support service. ◆
For further information, please contact: 031 274 8270
15009 GD 05/2009
13