Publications

We contribute technical white papers and magazine articles in a variety of venues. We regularly share our knowledge and experience at maritime conferences in the United States and around the world. Explore our publications by following the links below or select additional topics and conference series at left.

TOC Americas 2011

Crane Accidents: How to Prevent Them NOVEMBER 2011

by Erik Soderberg and Patrick McCarthy
Presented by Erik Soderberg at TOC Americas 2011 Conference in Panama

Container crane accidents account for about 35% of port insurance claim costs. This presentation summarizes significant operational, fatigue, wind related, and crane transport related accidents including causes and some prevention methods. Topics include vessel-crane collisions, boom hoist accidents, wind induced fatigue, fatigue tolerant detailing, structural maintenance programs, gantry braking systems, stowage system considerations, and seafastening review.

 Presentation

Crane Procurement, Life Extension, & Impact of Panama Canal Widening November 2011

by Erik Soderberg and Catherine Morris
Presented by Erik Soderberg at the TOC Americas 2011 Conference in Panama

This presentation addresses three topics. 1) Container crane procurement—a summary of best practices is presented, including detailed technical specifications, design review, fabrication review, seafastening review, offload plan review, and commissioning review. 2) Extending existing crane life—how can the life of existing cranes be extended by maintaining the reliability of the crane, and through practical modifications? 3) The New Panama Canal—we discuss examples of practical crane modifications to service the larger vessels.

 Presentation