The container terminal at the Port of Tarragona, Spain has introduced eight new RS46-36CH Hyster ReachStackers in support of its significant growth plans.

Since acquiring the container terminal at the Spanish Port of Tarragona in 2008, DP World Tarragona has initiated an extension project to increase capacity up to 1.3m TEU's by 2011. Dubai Ports World (DP World), the second largest terminal operator in the world, has a majority shareholding in the container terminal which is their first investment in Spain, working with ZPL, the logistics division of ZIM.

The first stage of restructure and growth elevated capacity to 200,000 TEU and eight new RS46-36CH Hyster ReachStackers were introduced to bolster the handling equipment fleet. Supplied by Hyster and its distribution partner in Spain, Grupo Alfaland, the reachstackers were selected for their high levels of productivity, reliability and efficiency coupled with the support and professionalism offered by Alfaland.

The RS46-36CH Hyster model provides the residual capacity required by DPW Tarragona, for handling ISO tank containers without needing to get too close. The model gives the flexibility of up to 5 high stacking with 46 tonne capacity in the first row, 36 tonne in the second and 19 tonnes in the third.

Hyster Reachstackers offer class leading lift speeds and excellent visibility from the sliding 'vista' cab which is intelligently designed to maximise the operator's performance and comfort. Some of the principal characteristics of Hyster's Reachstacker range include an automatic transmission with gear change protection, electronic load control and a clean running, powerful diesel engine.

For high density container storage operations, the Hyster ReachStacker is designed to achieve maximum space utilisation with exceptional manoeuvrability whilst providing a low cost of operation. 18.00 x 33-36 wheels, oil-immersed brakes, an engine shutdown function are all standard on the RS46-36CH models with easy service access which all contribute to the overall low cost of ownership.

Due to significant growth plans, DP World Tarragona required a supplier that could support operational changes in order to control equipment costs and reduce their financial risk. Hyster and Alfaland were able to provide flexibility in a long term contract which can be adapted in line with the development's progress. The port expects to see significant growth over the next three years given its strategic location close to Barcelona and the Mediterranean corridor.