Smart Bollard at MSC Terminal Valencia

MSC Terminal Valencia is a container terminal dedicated to handling containers for Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the world’s largest container shipping company.

At the end of last year, MSC Terminal Valencia invited us to discuss replacing their standard bollards with a smart bollard solution. With larger container vessels calling at the terminal, it is important to have clear insight into mooring line loads, especially during bad weather with strong winds and high waves.

A smart bollard measures the loads on mooring lines in real time. When loads become too high, mooring lines can break and a vessel may move away from the quay, creating unsafe situations. By using a smart bollard, these risks are reduced and overall port safety is improved.

The smart bollard is connected to the MoorControl software system. This system shows clear, real-time data to terminal operators, port authorities and vessel owners. All data is stored, which helps to better understand mooring forces and supports more efficient port operations.

After the successful introduction of the smart bollard in the Port of Rotterdam last year, MSC Terminal Valencia decided to start a trial project. An order for RSB-150 smart bollards has been placed, with installation planned for this summer in Valencia.