Reliable hydraulic motors for critical excavator traverse systems
For vessels operating continuous cargo operations, reliability in every part of the cargo handling system is essential. For Arriva Shipping, the hydraulic motors driving the traverse systems that move onboard excavators must perform flawlessly throughout long loading and unloading operations.
Moving excavators during cargo operations
Arriva Shipping operates a fleet of eight self-discharging dry cargo vessels trading mainly across Northern Europe, including Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Baltic region and occasionally Iceland.
The vessels transport a wide range of industrial cargo such as woodchips, gypsum, coal, minerals and aggregates for factories and infrastructure projects.
During cargo operations, excavators on deck are used to move and distribute cargo in the holds. These excavators are mounted on traverse systems that allow them to move along the vessel during loading and unloading. The systems rely on hydraulic motors that operate continuously throughout the operation.
Cargo operations typically run for 12–18 hours, placing constant demands on the equipment.
“These operations run continuously. The motors must simply work,” says Arriva Shipping.
Proven motor technology on board
Across most of the fleet, Arriva Shipping uses HMB7 hydraulic motors, with one vessel equipped with an HMB5 motor. The motors drive the traverse systems that move the excavators along the cargo area, working together with cable and chain drive systems.
Installed with cylindrical shaft configurations, the motors operate continuously during cargo handling and are exposed to a harsh maritime environment.
Their performance can be summed up simply:
“We hardly think about them – they simply work.”
Built for harsh marine conditions
Equipment installed on deck must withstand constant exposure to saltwater, sea spray and rough weather conditions. The motors used in the traverse systems are continuously exposed to this environment while operating during long cargo handling shifts.
For Arriva Shipping, the stability of the system and the reliability of the braking function are particularly important.
“Everything is exposed to water and sea spray, so the equipment must be robust and dependable.”
Operational reliability matters
The traverse systems play a critical role during cargo operations. If the motors stop functioning, the excavators cannot be moved along the vessel, which can severely disrupt loading and unloading.
For vessels operating on tight schedules and trading in challenging weather conditions, equipment reliability directly affects operational efficiency.
Fast response and local support
Arriva Shipping also values the ability to receive quick deliveries of parts and short response times when support is needed.
“Product quality combined with fast response time for orders and deliveries is very important for us. It is also an advantage that the supplier is local.”
Looking ahead
Arriva Shipping currently operates eight vessels, with two newbuildings scheduled for delivery this year. Based on their experience, the company expects to continue using the same reliable motor technology in future vessels.
“Continue delivering the same quality, and we will continue using the products.”
About Arriva Shipping
Founded in 1972 by Johannes Matre, Arriva Shipping is a family-owned shipping company headquartered in Ølensvåg, Norway, with additional offices in Stavanger and Gdansk.
The company owns and operates eight self-discharging dry cargo vessels ranging from 2,000 to 8,000 deadweight tons and also operates additional chartered tonnage. The vessels mainly trade within Northern Europe, transporting cargo such as aggregates for concrete and asphalt, coal, coke, minerals, gypsum, timber, salt, general cargo and project cargo.
The group employs around 170 people and reported a turnover of MNOK 715 in 2024, providing flexible and reliable maritime transport services for industrial customers across Norway and Europe.
