KATOEN NATIE IN ANTWERP, BELGIUM

KATOEN NATIE IN ANTWERP, BELGIUM

Katoen Natie modernises and accelerates its port operations with three Mantsinen 300 material handling machines, deployed across three quays in Antwerp. The investment in the world’s largest hydraulic material handlers aims to reduce turnaround times and enhance quality and safety.

Katoen Natie operates port terminals, logistics terminals and on-site terminals worldwide. The group also provides a wide range of semi-industrial services and designs, builds and manages logistics platforms and complete supply chains for various industries.

3 Machines for 3 Terminals

In 2024, Katoen Natie ordered three Mantsinen 300 material handling machines on mobile undercarriages on rubber tyres, each equipped with a quick-coupling system and a set of specialised lifting attachments, through importer Heavy Handling. One machine could be delivered immediately from stock, while the other two were custom-built and put into operation within a year.

The machines are mainly used for loading and unloading steel products, wood packages, big bags and other breakbulk, but also for containers and bulk goods. Hendrik Geerts, responsible for operations within Port Operations explains:

– Port Operations is one of eight business units within the Katoen Natie group. Katoen Natie has locations all over the world, with a wide range of activities, operations, and logistics. We have ordered three Mantsinen material handlers, type 300, which are mobile.

Speed, Safety and Sustainability in One Investment

According to Geerts, the advantages of this type of material handling machine are its speed and autonomy, which also contributes to worker safety.

– The example is particularly evident when handling coils, which are picked up with a type of clamp so that workers no longer have to attach or detach anything during loading or unloading, this is done automatically by means of a clamp. The automatic air hooks mean that attachment still has to be done manually, but detachment is automatic. Currently, with this type of coaster, it is possible to unload 24 big bags in one movement, Geerts describes.

This is an investment in safety and better service.

Hendrik Geerts, Manager Operations, Katoen Natie

– With the Mantsinen machines, we can handle ships faster, so that they can leave earlier. This saves our customers on mooring fees, for example. Despite the high speed, we continue to work very precisely. Thanks to the hydraulically controlled attachments, the risk of accidents or damage is also significantly reduced. This benefits both the safety of our people and the quality of the cargo. A real win-win, Geerts explains.

In addition, the material handlers are equipped with HybriLift® technology, a hybrid drive that reduces exhaust emissions by up to 50 %.