Stockholm-based container lifting specialists Bromma, has delivered three second-generation electric, ship-to-shore spreaders to HHLA Container Terminal Alternwerder (CTA) in Hamburg.

This marks the first deployment of the STS45E G2 spreaders in Europe and will be used by the terminal to equip its new generation of highly automated STS cranes from Liebherr.

Bromma says the electric STS spreader eliminates hydraulic oil entirely and replaces it with electric actuation throughout, reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The elimination of oil also eliminates the risk of oil spills and reduces maintenance.

The STS45E G2 is designed to integrate into fully automated crane systems, Bromma states, as the system’s interfaces are built to communicate directly with crane automation platforms.

“The shift from hydraulic to fully electric spreaders has a clear operational logic,” says Daniel Rademacher, engineer for cargo handling equipment, HHLA Technik GmbH.

“Hydraulic maintenance is becoming more demanding — not just in terms of cost, but in finding the right skills. Electric spreaders remove that challenge. 

“Combined with the compatibility with our high-automation crane systems, the STS45E G2 was the right choice for CTA.”

Tommi Tähtinen, Bromma’s vice president, says the deployment marks a milestone for the company.

“We believe all-electric spreaders, with their environmental and operational benefits, will become the preferred standard also for STS operations in the future,” Tähtinen adds.