Introducing the MacGregor GravityVibeTM: A Revolutionary Self-Unloading System for Bulk Carriers

MacGregor, a part of Cargotec, has introduced a new gravity self-unloading system called the MacGregor GravityVibeTM. This system uses a vibrating unloader to reduce internal friction and ease the discharge of coarse materials such as wood chips from bulk carriers’ cargo holds. The vibrating panels in the system help to shift remnants or break ‘bridges’ that form when coarse material sticks together to block the outlet. This allows the system to discharge various cargo types with slope angles of just 15–20 degrees, increasing the variety and capacity of cargo a vessel can handle and reducing carbon dioxide emissions per carried tonne of cargo.

The MacGregor GravityVibeTM also features a streamlined set-up with fewer components, resulting in lower maintenance and spare parts requirements compared to conventional self-unloading systems. This minimizes spillage and the need for cleaning, improving safety for the crew. The system provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional solutions and has been developed according to established best practice, with testing conducted in collaboration with leading research centers and technology area experts. Customers will have the opportunity to validate the system’s handling of their chosen materials in full-scale mock-up demonstrations at MacGregor’s test facilities.

Mikael Hägglund, Sales Manager at MacGregor, highlighted the system’s ability to afford owners greater flexibility when taking on new contracts, boosting earning potential, and enhancing environmental performance. Tomas Wallin, Senior Product Owner at MacGregor, described the MacGregor GravityVibeTM as the company’s most advanced self-unloader yet, developed through decades of experience and targeted research.

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