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Ports and shipyards

In an industry where profits are dependent on a consistent flow of operations, the time-cost and safety risks associated with climbing ladders can be excessive. Ports and shipyards experience significantly greater output when essential crane components and machinery can be accessed rapidly for maintenance and repairs.

Alimak industrial elevators increase productivity and foster safer operations in ports and shipyards around the world. Frequently used to transport passengers to the top of a crane in just two minutes, an Alimak industrial elevator provides an efficient vertical access solution.

How does Alimak elevate safety and crane efficiency?

Imagine a bustling port, where cranes set the rhythm of the day. Since the 1970s, Alimak has been a trusted companion, ensuring global trade flows smoothly. Since our first port elevator in 1971, we’ve supplied over 3,000 elevators, providing reliable access that minimises downtime and maximises productivity and safety. Today, Alimak elevators are in ports and shipyards across more than 90 countries, supporting the seamless flow of goods worldwide. Our elevators are the trusted partners that keep everything running smoothly and safely.

Comprehensive service solutions in over 100 countries

Through our service centres in over 100 countries, Alimak offers a comprehensive range of services designed to care for your elevators and the people who operate them over the total lifecycle of the equipment. Alimak is committed to safety. To ensure the safety and compliance of your products, Alimak offers a wide range of inspections and certifications to support our customers in demonstrating that their equipment is compliant to the regulatory framework in which they operate, and that their people are competent in its use.

Flexible for any type of vertical transport service within ports and shipyards

A port is a tough place for any piece of machinery to operate in, and the elevator is no exception. Alimak elevators operate at peak performance within salty seaside environments. We have a working solution for any transport requirement within the port or shipyard.

Why choose Alimak elevators for the ports and shipyards sector?

Ideal for port crane access

Alimak rack-and-pinion elevators are ideal for accessing port cranes for crane operators and maintenance personnel. They effectively reduce the risk of falls from height, eliminate exertion from climbing, and provide the ability to quickly transport injured personnell from any height.

Easy to retrofit to existing cranes

Alimak elevators can easily be installed on any crane structure, and perfectly lends itself to retrofitting. We offer a wide and versatile range of vertical access solutions whether for retrofitting, upgrades or larger refurbishment programs at the port or shipyard.

Flexible for any type of vertical transport service

Alimak elevators can be installed in various settings, including indoor and outdoor environments, and can handle different types of loads. They are adaptable to inclinations, curves, tight spaces, and extreme temperatures, providing flexible vertical access solutions

Elevate crane efficiency

Alimak elevators providing reliable and easy access for the crane driver, which reduces crane downtime and enhances productivity and safety.

Applications for port and shipyard elevators

Typical port and shipyard applications that require vertical access include:

Bulk‑handling cranes often operate in demanding conditions and feature elevated cabins and service points spread across the crane structure. Alimak elevators ensure reliable, controlled access for operators and technicians, minimising the risks and fatigue associated with climbing in harsh or repetitive working environments.

Fast and reliable vertical access also plays a key role in maintaining productivity. By simplifying access for inspections, servicing, and repairs, Alimak elevators help operators keep bulk‑handling cranes running efficiently while reducing the likelihood of costly downtime.

Dry docks in ports and shipyards require reliable access to deep structures and elevated work areas. Alimak elevators provide efficient vertical transport for personnel and equipment, eliminating the need for ladders or long stairways. By improving accessibility in challenging environments, the elevators reduce fatigue and enhance safety. Easy access also supports inspections and maintenance activities, helping operators maintain productivity and minimise downtime.

Alimak rack‑and‑pinion elevators are an ideal solution for vertical access on Goliath cranes, delivering fast and reliable transport for operators and maintenance personnel. Suitable for both internal and external installation, and able to travel on inclined structures, they adapt easily to crane geometry. Their robust design supports high lifting heights and ensures long‑term performance in corrosive, marine conditions.

Rail mounted gantry cranes are designed for high‑intensity, automated terminal environments where efficiency and safety are paramount. Alimak elevators provide a reliable access solution to elevated operator stations and crane structures, replacing stair climbing with a smooth and reliable ride to the working level.

In terminals where continuous operation is essential, the ability to access the crane quickly makes a measurable difference. Alimak elevators enable maintenance personnel to reach key areas safely and efficiently, supporting planned maintenance activities that help protect uptime and extend the service life of the crane.

On rubber tyred gantry cranes, operators often need to access elevated cabins and critical components as part of daily operations. Alimak elevators offer a dependable and comfortable means of vertical access, allowing personnel to reach the cabin efficiently without climbing long stairways. This reduces physical strain and helps operators stay focused and alert throughout their shift.

By supporting quick access for both operators and maintenance teams, Alimak elevators contribute to higher equipment availability. Easy access encourages routine inspections and preventive maintenance, helping ports maintain smooth operations and avoid unplanned interruptions.

The cabin on a ship-to-shore crane sits in a high position to give crane operators better visibility. Alimak elevators provide a reliable way for operators to reach their cabin quickly, and removes the need to climb stairs, reducing fatigue.

With many ports requiring tight schedules, maximised uptime is critical. Our elevators also provide access for preventive maintenance to ensure costly downtime is kept to a minimum.

Alimak elevators are used in shipyards to provide efficient and reliable vertical transport to the hulls of docked ships, for maintenance and repairs. With a variety of car sizes available, they can be used to transport people and materials, and also enhance safety by providing emergency stretcher access.

Warehouses in ports and shipyards often span multiple levels, requiring frequent movement between work areas. Alimak elevators provide reliable, efficient vertical access, eliminating stair climbing and reducing fatigue for operators and maintenance staff.

Reliable access supports fast‑paced logistics operations, enabling inspections and preventive maintenance to be carried out with ease. By improving safety, comfort, and accessibility, Alimak elevators help maintain uptime and keep warehouse operations running smoothly.

Alimak elevators provide efficient vertical access for people and materials in container terminals, improving productivity and enhancing safety. Our rack-and-pinion range of elevators don’t require a shaft, which makes them suitable to be retrofitted on existing structures, with minimal disruption.

What do our customers say about us?

  • “I think that what really distinguishes Alimak from the competition is their great service and responsiveness. They are always available when we need them, and they always respond in a timely manner. This has saved us from inconvenient waiting time and project delays. In relation to their great availability, it is very easy to do business with them. Their knowledge level is high, and you can feel that they are well prepared when you have a meeting with them. For myself as a customer that is essential – to be able to trust the one you do business with. ”

    Jette Rasmussen, Strategic Sourcing Manager, FLSmidth, Denmark

  • “Alimak has always delivered very high quality – it’s the Mercedes of industrial elevators. Through Alimak’s strong network of local service partners, we can get assistance much quicker than what we could get from any competitor. That has saved us a great amount of time and reduced our service costs. ”

    Mauro Brambilla, Project Manager, CR International, Italy

  • “In the power generation industry, it is critical to act fast when problems arise. The response time of service providers needs to be as short as possible. Alimak has always been very responsive and available to our needs as customers saving us time, effort and money while ensuring safe and reliable operation of the lift.”

    Leopoldo Lirios, Plant Engineer, Team Energy, the Philippines

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