June 19 - Ansaldo Energia has opened its Genova Cornigliano production facility in the Port of Genoa, Italy, writes Nicola Capuzzo.
It will be used to assemble a range of gas turbines and, in particular, the GT 36, the latest generation 570-tonne maxi turbine that can now be shipped directly by sea.
"Today represents both an important point of arrival, as well as a significant point of departure" commented Giuseppe Zampini, Ansaldo Energia's chairman. "We have successfully completed something we set out to do a long time ago to provide Ansaldo Energia with direct access to sea transport, which is why it is essential for us to have the entire production process located in Genoa."
Thanks to the new direct sea access, Ansaldo says it expects to be able to save some EUR50,000 (USD55,907.50) on each shipment.
Maurizio Parodi, supply chain manager at Ansaldo Energia, said the first turbine shipment would take place before the end of the current year.
He also revealed that there is a 50 m height limit at the port imposed as a result of the proximity of the local airport.
Parodi says if an oversized cargo should exceed this limit, the shipper can opt for the alternative solution of a short transport by barge transport and subsequent loading on a project cargo ship at Messina terminal or at Terminal San Giorgio.
Ansaldo Energia group is a leading international player in the construction of power stations and the supply of gas and steam turbines, generators and micro turbines.
