Technology: Durban port uses simulator to train crane operators
15 May 2008
Crane operators at Durban Harbour’s Pier One are being trained on a true-to-life simulator.

The technology uses giant screens and state-of-the-art computers to replicate environmental conditions and challenging operational situations, thus enabling operators to develop their skills before using live, expensive equipment.

South African port operator Transnet Port Terminals recently partnered with African National Engineering, the local agent for GlobalSim, a world leader in simulation training systems for the crane and material handling market.

The partnership has seen the introduction of the R6,7-million MasterLift 4000 simulator at Pier One.

Louis du Toit, business unit executive at the Transnet Academy School of Port Operations, said the advanced system replaced an outdated crane simulator.