Port Efficiency Research Articles

Hydrogen-fueled PFI SI engine investigation for near-zero NOx emissions in de-throttled and supercharged ultra-lean burn conditions

This study investigates the efficiency and combustion characteristics of a hydrogen port fuel injection (PFI) spark ignition (SI) engine under various load levels, excess air ratios and intake pressures. Experiments were conducted on a single-cylinder research engine to evaluate the effects of throttle opening and supercharging on pumping work and combustion parameters. The key findings indicate that abnormal combustion events are more closely related to the relative air-fuel ratio (λ) than to load, further limiting load increases during de-throttled operation. Additionally, combustion variability compromised mixture enleanment in both naturally aspirated and supercharged conditions. The gross indicated efficiency was approximately 40.7% across the range of 2.2 < λ < 3.5 with minimal variation. Efficiency gains were linked to reduced heat transfer losses in lean conditions, as validated by computational heat transfer, thermodynamic and fluid dynamic models on Gamma Technologies GT-ISE software. Moreover, nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions were nearly zero for all test conditions when λ was above 2.2. These findings provide crucial insights into optimizing hydrogen engine performance under various intake pressures, highlighting the potential for achieving high efficiency and low emissions.

Measuring the time-invariant and time-varying technical efficiency of ports in Tunisia: a stochastic frontier analysis

Measuring the time-invariant and time-varying technical efficiency of ports in Tunisia: a stochastic frontier analysis

Cybersecurity in Tanzanian Maritime Operations: Exploring Global Best Practices and Their Local Adaptation Using the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (C2M2)

The increasing integration of digital technologies in maritime operations has significantly enhanced efficiency in cargo tracking, port management, and communication systems. However, this digital transformation also introduces substantial cybersecurity risks, particularly in developing regions like Tanzania, where technological infrastructure and specialized skills may lag behind global standards. This study evaluates the cybersecurity readiness of three key Tanzanian maritime organizations Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), Tanzania Shipping Agency Corporation (TASAC), and SINOTASHIP using the Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (C2M2). Through a detailed assessment across ten C2M2 domains, the study identifies existing strengths and critical gaps in areas such as risk management, asset management, and incident response. The findings reveal that while basic cybersecurity practices exist, they are largely reactive, with most domains scoring between Level 1 (Initial) and Level 3 (Defined). This lack of advanced, proactive measures poses significant risks to Tanzania's maritime infrastructure, particularly given the strategic role of ports like Dar es Salaam in regional trade. The study highlights the need for tailored improvements, including enhanced asset management, continuous workforce training, and real-time monitoring systems, to bridge the gap between global standards and local practices. By implementing these measures, Tanzanian maritime operations can strengthen their resilience against cyber threats, ensuring secure and efficient port operations in an increasingly interconnected world.

A Conceptual Model for Automation of Small Ports

Abstract For large ports and terminals, the loading and discharge operations have to a great extent been automated already. However, for the vast number of small ports, for instance all Norwegian ports, this large-scale automation is not possible due to the small size of the ports compared to the cost of introducing full automation. Still, these small ports are important logistics hubs in the transport system. They facilitate the shift from congested roads to the sea by allowing the goods to arrive closer to the final destination by using smaller, possibly autonomous, vessels. However, this puts pressure on the ports to facilitate reduced laytime in the port, to increase the port efficiency and to improve interoperability towards hinterland systems and terminals. For small ports, this means that manual and automated work processes need to exist side by side, and that it will be important to get an overview of which processes to automate and which will remain manual, in addition to the handling of the hand-over between humans and automation. This paper describes a conceptual model that can be used by small ports as a starting point on their way to introduce automation of their services supporting the cargo flow through the port. The model includes a description of port functions, tasks and responsibilities and use the concept of operational envelope to define the overall capabilities of the system, including both automation and human. This will be the starting point for how to structure the description of an operation centre that monitor and control the maritime terminal operations. The starting point for this work is a use case analysis performed in some small ports in Norway, and their need to optimize the utilization of their assets. The work is done as part of the AutoPort project which is a research project funded by the Norwegian Research Council (project number 337211). The goal of this work is to describe a methodology on how to identify the interface between automation and human operators when it comes to small ports and the movement of cargo through its terminals, and by this give a description on how different levels of automation can be implemented. The methodology consists of several steps, including definition of the context (big picture of the use case, actors and their roles, and communication), the scenario (port activities and processes), and the use cases including the control tasks performed by the automated systems.

Trade Facilitation as a Catalyst for Government Revenue Enhancement: Exploring the Synergies Between Trade Efficiency and Tax Collection

Customs administrators worldwide are mandated to mobilize national revenue collections through the assessment and collection of applicable duties and taxes on all imports and exports. One of their primary concerns following the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement is the need to optimise revenue collections while simultaneously upholding trade facilitation. This research assesses trade facilitation implications on government revenue mobilization in developing countries with a particular emphasis on Zimbabwe. The paper adopts a qualitative approach, capturing several subjective elements including the examination of the Critical Success Factors for enhanced revenue collection as well as the evaluation of trade facilitation as a solution to customs revenue leakages. Purposive sampling was employed to collect data from employees working in the Customs Division at the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority. Eighty questionnaires were distributed to participants working in Beitbridge, Chirundu, Forbes border posts and the Robert Mugabe International Airport targeting Customs Senior Managers, Customs Middle Managers, Revenue Supervisors and Revenue Officers as key respondents. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 29. This analysis focused on four dimensions of trade facilitation, which includes port efficiency, customs environment, regulatory environment, and electronic-business. The findings indicate that trade facilitation reforms, when executed appropriately in conjunction with enhancements in electronic-business, port efficiency, customs environment and the regulatory framework, can effectively augment revenue collection. Regulatory environment improvements are key in influencing increasing revenue collection and should be prioritised in resource allocation for the achievement of best possible outcomes. We recommend ‘continuous refresher training’ on trade facilitation awareness targeting all stakeholders in ports of entry, accompanied by the implementation of robust risk management strategies as well as intensified implementation of integrity management tools.

Transient pressure characteristic investigation and performance analysis of a novel three-port gas pressure dividing (GPD) device

The wave-rotor based gas pressure dividing (GPD) is a novel concept to allocate and utilize the pressure energy of gases, presenting significant potential in engineering fields. However, studies about GPD devices are rare, and related mechanism analysis and performance investigations are almost blank. In this study, an experimental platform upon a novel three-port GPD device is established. The transient pressure distribution characteristics in passages of GPD wave rotor are determined experimentally with the customized pressure acquisition system. Besides, the effects of rotation speed, compression ratio (β), and expansion ratio (α) on the pressure dividing performance of the GPD device are systematically examined via experiments and numerical simulations. The results indicate that the interaction of shock waves and expansion waves in passages can enable the medium-pressure gas to divide into high-pressure and low-pressure gases. The rotation speed of 2340 rpm is optimized, determining the greatest gas compression and expansion. The compression ratio increase can improve the compression efficiency and reduce the expansion depth, while the expansion ratio increase can present an opposite regulation. The flow rate efficiency of LP port is decreased with the compression ratio and expansion ratio increase.

Optimization berth allocation in container terminals: A Pyomo and Google Colab approach

Efficient berth allocation profoundly influences container terminal operations, affecting vessel waiting and turnaround times, and overall performance. This study presents a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model addressing the Berth Allocation Problem (BAP) in a Malaysian container port. By incorporating the Pyomo optimization library and CBC (Coin-or Branch and Cut) solver in Google Colab, optimal berth allocations are determined, minimizing vessel turnaround times. Visualized in a Space-Time diagram, the results highlight efficient allocation strategies. Despite limitations, the study optimally resolved three instances, achieving a remarkable 38.54% reduction in overall vessel turnaround time compared to FCFS (First-Come-First-Serve) allocation. By prioritizing port turnaround time, the optimization substantially reduced berthing and departure delays, aligning with UNCTAD's call for enhanced port efficiency and accelerated decarbonization efforts.

Advances in Navigability and Mooring

Considerable technological progress has been made in ship handling and mooring in recent years, especially progress generated by the needs imposed by the introduction of ever larger ships. These advancements exploit the economic scale and environmental efficiency of larger vessels, but also present unique challenges, particularly in narrow waterways and harbour approaches. Precise navigation in these environments requires highly accurate hydrographic measurements, high-quality electronic charts, and advanced navigation systems, such as modern electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS). Safe and efficient port operations also depend on the optimised allocation of port resources and comprehensive queuing strategies. Modern ships are increasingly susceptible to interference with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS), necessitating the development of resilient technologies and procedures to ensure navigational safety. In addition, climate change is exacerbating the challenges of ship handling in ports, as larger vessels are particularly vulnerable to sudden gusts of wind and have difficulty maintaining their position in the quay in strong crosswinds. Training and simulation are crucial to overcoming these challenges. Ship-handling simulators are invaluable for training purposes, but development is still needed to accurately simulate tilt and lean effects, especially when ships are sailing in narrow channels with following currents and changing winds. Improving the accuracy of these simulators will improve the preparation of seafarers for real-life conditions and ultimately contribute to safer and more efficient ship operations.

Machine learning tool for wave overtopping prediction based on the safety-operability ratio

The phenomenon of wave overtopping affects both the safety of people and port facilities, as well as the operability of a port. This work aims to develop a predictive tool based on artificial intelligence to predict wave overtopping over a breakwater, and to reach a compromise between safeguarding people and port efficiency. The data used came from an extensive field campaign lasting 6.5 years. During this research, the overtopping events were recorded and integrated with the forecast data available from the Port. The model used is the random forest, which was applied with the metrics AUC-PR and F2 score to a weighted dataset. The validation results show a recall for alignments of 0.91 and 0.89, while in the test it reaches 0.94 and 0.95. The dangerousness of the wave overtopping was also analyzed, reducing the dangerous false negatives to 2 and to 14 in the two alignments studied. Operability per alignment was unnecessarily affected during validation by 4 and 10 days over 26.5 months, and in the test by 4 and 3 days over 6.5 months. The results show a proven tool with real data, capable of predicting wave overtopping, and a methodology that can be exported to other ports.

Adaptation planning of container ports in the context of typhoon risks: The case of Ningbo-Zhoushan port in China

This study conducts a comprehensive survey of the risk of typhoon to container ports by assessing the risk level of typhoons in China's major container ports, predicting their economic losses, and evaluating corresponding adaptation measures. It analyzes adaptation measures in response to typhoon impacts, with a case study of Ningbo-Zhoushan port, one of China's most representative regional ports. It identifies the inadequate supply of institutions and the absence and misbehavior of the main port stakeholders as the main cause of varying institutional imperfections in the port adaptation system. This study contributes to the development of efficient port typhoon prevention policies, reduction of economic losses and casualties, and improvement of port operational efficiency. It also fills an important research gap on climate risk and adaptation in China's container ports, with an emphasis in enhancing port resilience.

The Efforts to Improve the Seaworthiness at the Port Authority and Harbourmaster Office (KSOP) of Bima Class IV

Seaworthiness is essential because it impacts maritime operations' safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Therefore, the Harbormaster and Port Authority Office (KSOP) ensures ship seaworthiness to maintain naval safety, protect the environment, and ensure smooth port operations. The research employed a descriptive qualitative method to investigate and describe a phenomenon. The data was obtained by observation and a deep literature review of the problems discussed. The research found that: 1) several problems that often arise regarding ship seaworthiness are the ship's technical condition, management and operations, environmental factors, compliance with regulations, market conditions, and competition. 2) efforts to improve seaworthiness carried out by KSOP Bima are routine inspections and certification, increasing human resources, operational supervision, developing port infrastructure, applying advanced technology, collaborating and coordinating with related agencies, strict law enforcement, education, and outreach, and developing emergency procedures. 3) The security and safety conditions of ships entering and leaving the Bima Port KSOP require continued attention and effort. From this study, they implement strict regulations, use advanced technology, improve infrastructure, conduct continuous training, and collaborate strongly with related agencies. KSOP Bima can ensure that ships operating in its area meet seaworthiness standards, supporting safe and efficient port operations.

“When you need it quick, let us ship it right”: on the importance of port efficiency and service quality to comply with food trade standards in Ghana

AbstractAgricultural exports are especially important because of their great potential for poverty reduction among smallholder farmers. However, many African countries, such as Ghana, fail to realize their full export potential due to institutional and technical constraints. This paper examines the importance of port efficiency and service quality in complying with food trade standards in Ghana. We provide a stylized theoretical model in which exporting firms are willing to pay for improved port service quality as long as the marginal revenue derived from a reduced likelihood of (border) rejection exceeds the marginal costs for improved service quality. We test the model’s predictions using primary data from 120 agri-food exporters in Ghana. Our results show that about two-thirds of exporting firms have a positive willingness-to-pay for a reduction in the handling time at the port and the risk of spoilage due to inadequate handling. These findings emphasize the importance of trade facilitation measures in improving port efficiency and service quality to accelerate agricultural exports.

Port efficiency types and perspectives: A literature review

Port efficiency has different meanings for various stakeholders. This paper examines the existing studies on the efficiency types and analysis perspectives. Most studies focused on traditional port efficiencies (i.e., the technical, allocative and economic efficiency). Some extended these traditional types by considering ships’ time in port and the negative environmental impacts. The majority of studies assessed port efficiency from the perspective of port authorities, managers, and operators. Few did it from the perspective of the users and the public. Even fewer noticed the possible conflicts between the port service level and its profitability. This highlights the need for port efficiency analyses to balance the interests of different stakeholders. Frontier methods are popular in port efficiency evaluation, but publications extending or combining different methods are still very rare. Several issues are identified, including the consistencies between decision-making units and the selection of input/output variables, the nature of port services, the extension and combination of these methods, and the impacts of new developments and occurrences, which can be the direction of further studies.

DEVELOPMENT OF THAILAND’S NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW

The aim of this research was to investigate the current implementation of Thailand’s National Single Window and identify opportunities for improvement. Objectives included 1) assessing Thailand’s existing National Single Window, including its structure and function and agency and customer participation; 2) identifying problems with function and process of the National Single Window; and 3) identifying potential solutions to improve customs efficiency, port efficiency, and overall trade efficiency through Thailand’s National Single Window. Implementation of the National Single Window, which began to be considered in policy around 2005, is now substantially complete, but development activities and improvement are still ongoing. This study used a nested sequential qualitative-led mixed methods research design to investigate implementation of the National Single Window from the perspectives of multiple stakeholder groups. Data collection was conducted using a policy review (Phase 1), a questionnaire (n = 400) (Phase 2), and an open-ended questionnaire (n= 38) (Phase 3). The Phase 1 and Phase 3 data was analysed using content analysis, while Phase 2 data was analysed using descriptive statistics. The analysis showed that the National Single Window is currently being used and some aspects, such as implementation of import and export processes, is largely complete. This has provided benefits to users and agencies, especially reduced cost and time and improved efficiency. However, there are still some areas where improvements are needed, particularly interagency coordination of processes and information sharing and improvement of system stability. The study provides recommendations for continued development of the National Single Window based on these findings.

EFFICIENCY ASSESSMENT OF SOME DANUBE PORTS BY USING DEA WINDOW ANALYSIS

The aim of this paper is to empirically assess the efficiency / inefficiency of five Danube ports in five neighbouring countries and to observe how it evolves over an eight-year period ranging from 2014 to 2021. The five ports are located on the lower course of the Danube River and are the most important in their states: Smederevo (Serbia), Ruse (Bulgaria), Galați (Romania), Giurgiulești (Moldova), and Izmail (Ukraine). The study uses a mixed-method, namely the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) window analysis method and Andersen and Petersenʼs super-efficiency model to evaluate the efficiency of these ports over time. Port efficiency analysis is based on a single output, i.e. the cargo throughput, and four inputs: the total port area, the total area of warehouses, the quay length, and the number of cranes. It was determined that none of the five ports analysed reaches the maximum efficiency of 1.000, their average efficiency being quite low, only 0.631. The highest average efficiency is recorded by the Serbian port of Smederevo, with 0.768, this port being found to make good use of its resources for production. On the other extreme, the Bulgarian port of Ruse was found to be the least efficient port, obtaining the lowest average efficiency over an eight-year period, with only 0.360. The study tries to capture the causes of the inefficiency of selected ports and propose some measures to improve their efficiency.

Evaluation of Containerized Trade and Competitiveness among Container Ports in Black Sea Basin

With the increase in trading volume and competitiveness in global trade, ports have becomeindispensable and critical rivalry zones for countries. As competitiveness among the firm increaseat a global level, ports become a rivalry zone cause of being the most critical economic structuresand increasing competitiveness for transnational business and trade activities. The Black SeaBasin is one of the most important waterways in the world in terms of commercial, political andstrategic aspects. The devastating consequences of conflicts and tensions, especially in recentyears, prove the importance of the Black Sea Basin for world maritime trade. Therefore, the portsof the Black Sea Basin are of great importance. When the existing literature is reviewed, it is seenthat there are many studies on the competitiveness and efficiency issues. Since the studies in theliterature are mostly conceptual, it is obvious that they do not reveal analytical results, whichconstitutes a deficiency in the literature. In addition, the lack of a scientific study on theefficiency of container ports in the Black Sea Basin in recent years has made this study necessary.The aim of this study is to examine the efficiency and competitiveness of container ports in theBlack Sea Basin, which has a great importance both regionally and globally. The “DataEnvelopment Analysis” (DEA) of the input-oriented CCR model, which is a linear program, wasused to measure the productivity of the ports, and the relative efficiency of the ports wascalculated.

Pak-Saudi Relations &amp; Maritime Cooperation

This paper explores the potential benefits of Pakistan’s relations with Saudi Arabia and consequent trade partnerships, investment prospects, technological advancements, and regional cooperation on the former’s economy. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has spurred significant investments in its maritime and logistics sectors. The paper argues that Pakistan, with key ports like Karachi and Gwadar, stands to benefit from strengthened maritime collaboration with Saudi Arabia. Increased trade partnerships, particularly with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, can be a major outcome, supported by improvements in port efficiency and logistics infrastructure. Moreover, there are opportunities for Pakistan to diversify its export portfolio, attract foreign investment, and adopt advanced technologies in the maritime sector. It suggests that collaborative efforts in port development, digital trade, and sustainable practices can bolster Pakistan’s maritime capabilities. Engaging in regional cooperation on maritime security, trade logistics, and environmental sustainability can further enhance bilateral relations and economic growth. Lastly, the paper outlines actionable strategies for Pakistan to leverage these opportunities, positioning itself as a pivotal player in regional maritime trade and logistics.

Analysis Of Factors That Influence The Performance Of Employees In Boarding And Unloading Of Ship Goods In The Port

The activity of loading and unloading ship goods at the port is one of the vital activities in the goods distribution chain. The performance of employees involved in this process has a direct impact on port efficiency and productivity as well as safety and security in its operations. However, in practice, a variety of factors might impact employee effectiveness in these activities. The aim of this research is to analyze the factors that influence the performance of employees involved in loading and unloading ship cargo activities at the port. This study0 uses quantitative research methods by collecting data through surveys using questionnaires and literature studies. The data that has been collected is then analyzed using a regression test using the SPSS program. The research results show that the factors that influence the performance of employees loading and unloading ship goods at the port include supervision, human resource competency and job security. Therefore, to improve employee performance, efforts need to be made such as strengthening the monitoring and control system for employee performance, improving employee training and competency development, and creating safe and comfortable working conditions for employees.

Examining Operational Efficiency Indicators to Improve the Operational Efficiency of Khorramshahr Port in Iran

The purpose of this research was to study operational indicators that could effectively improve the productivity of Khorramshahr port operation. A mixed exploratory and qualitative-quantitative research method was used. The research was carried out on the statistical sample of 34 subjects, including the managers, experts and staff of Khorramshahr Port Authority, chosen as a statistical sample using the available sampling method. The data analysis method (DEA), a mathematical method and one of the best non-parametric methods, was used to measure organizational efficiency based on input and output variables. Another method, fuzzy TOPSIS, was used to assist with the decision-making process. In this study, operational indicators were examined to increase the productivity of Khorramshahr port, using the data envelopment analysis method, the multiple CCR model and the fuzzy TOPSIS technique. In the Data Envelopment Analysis method, indicators whose efficiency score equals one are considered effective. The results obtained using the two methods (Data Envelopment Analysis and fuzzy TOPSIS) indicate that there are no sufficiently efficient and productive operational efficiency indicators that could be used to increase the performance of Khorramshahr port wharfs. Therefore, as seen from both research methods, the loading and unloading indices of the Khorramshahr wharfs must be top priority.

Determination of Ship Length and Draft on the Planning Stage of Cruise Ports in Turkiye

The evolution of cruise tourism, despite facing unprecedented challenges from the Covid-19 pandemic, has shown resilience, with a rapid recovery observed in 2022. This manuscript emphasizes the significance of analyzing cruise ship length and draft data for Turkish ports to facilitate effective development planning. Despite data availability challenges, percentiles of ship lengths and drafts have been established, offering insights into port capacity and future infrastructure requirements. The examination of ship length and draft requirements highlights the diverse needs of ports from Alanya to Trabzon. Continuous monitoring and adjustment of development plans are essential to adapt to evolving industry trends, such as the increasing size of cruise ships. Projections indicate a consistent upward trend in ship sizes, emphasizing the need for forward-looking investment strategies. This study provides a foundation for informed decision-making in port development, offering insights to optimize port efficiency and competitiveness. By assessing regional effects and proposing pragmatic investment approaches, the manuscript serves as a valuable resource for guiding future infrastructure investments in Turkey's maritime industry, ensuring its sustainable growth and competitiveness.