Self-propelled transport technology by Cometto has recently been put to use at a location steeped in history. The Rosslauer Schiffswerft uses a 4-axle Eco1000 to move steel components weighing up to 160 tons around the factory sites.
After many years in use, the shipyard managers needed to replace their transport technology, which is now more than 30 years old. "After evaluating a market study, the 4-axle Eco1000 as a "long-frame" variant from Cometto precisely met our requirements," says Peter Talaska, Managing Director of the shipyard, describing the decision-making process. For production manager Jonas Hohmann, this is an important piece of the puzzle for future plant logistics. "In particular, the option of automatic level control is very important for our location. Because here we have to connect the production areas that are at different levels and we want to make it as easy as possible for the operator of the Eco1000. One press of a button on the remote control is all it takes and we are ... propelled to the MAX."
Shipyard with a long tradition
The town of Rosslau has experienced a lot in its history and the development of various ship technologies started here. It all began in 1844, when the Sachsenberg brothers set up an iron foundry and machine factory in Rosslau. This gave rise to a shipyard in 1866, which subsequently developed milestones for this industry.
In addition to the paddle steamer and the eccentric-controlled paddle wheel, this later included hydrofoil technology. This made it possible to reach speeds of 110 kilometres per hour on the water as early as 1937. More than 800 ships were launched between 1945 and 1989. Since 1994, the Rosslau shipyard has belonged to the Heinrich Rönner group of companies. The family-run company operates 19 production sites with over 1,700 employees. These include Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven, Bredo Dry Docks, BVT in Bremen and Stahlbau Nord.
Training a central component
Today RSW is engaged in the production of steel bridges, locks and barrier gates and still - of ship sections. These steel components, weighing up to 160 tons, have to be moved around the factory premises. "And the new 4-axle Eco1000 now plays a supporting role in these tasks," reports Joachim Kolb, Cometto's Sales Manager, about the new daily work routine in the shipyard. The vehicle was put into operation immediately after delivery in Rosslau. "Therefore, extensive training of the transport department was also a central component for us," says Jonas Hohmann, production manager at the shipyard, citing another positive aspect of the cooperation with Cometto.
Date of publication: 12/2022