MacPiler Fully Electric Gantry Crane

The MacGregor MacPiler is a fully electric gantry crane engineered for efficient, oil-free hatch cover operations on small cargo vessels. It replaces traditional hydraulics with a quiet, low-maintenance electric drive, reducing emissions and ensuring smooth, precise performance in all conditions.

Built on MacGregor’s sustainable design expertise, the solution enables your crew to handle hatch covers safely, reliably, and efficiently.

Small general cargo ships Vessels with hatch openings
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Key benefits

The MacPiler strengthens vessel performance and sustainability while improving safety and crew comfort.

  • Reduced fuel use and emissions with an energy-efficient drive that consumes power only during crane operation.
  • Lower lifetime maintenance costs due to a simplified system design that reduces component wear.
  • Cleaner, safer working areas and support for environmental compliance with oil-free operation.
  • Improved crew comfort and reduced onboard noise with quiet, smooth motion.
  • Safeguarding of both crew and equipment through intelligent control and safety features.

Together, these advantages provide a sustainable, cost-efficient cargo-handling solution that keeps your operations running smoothly.


Key features

The MacPiler combines advanced electric design with practical functionality for handling hatch covers.

  • Fully electric drive reduces onboard maintenance needs, for example, by removing the need to change oil.
  • Intelligent overcurrent monitoring prevents overloading and enhances operational safety.
  • The crane is easily and conveniently operated from the operation platform, with clear visibility to the hatch covers and lifting hooks.
  • Mechanical and visual hook indicators confirm secure engagement before every lift.
  • Intelligent control systems allow smooth, efficient, and stable panel movement. 
  • Electric motor speed is controlled with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), which provide precise control and offer numerous benefits that significantly enhance operational efficiency, optimize energy usage, and improve overall system performance.
  • Modular configuration supports easy installation and integration into vessel systems.
  • Onboard crew training during commissioning ensures confident, safe day-to-day operation.
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  • References

    In collaboration with KTU Shipyard and Miniships, MacGregor showcased MacPiler’s performance in demanding port operations, proving that fully electric deck systems can deliver both sustainability and dependability.

    Watch video: Shaping Maritime Excellence with KTU Shipyard and Miniships

  • Lifecycle Support

    With MacGregor’s global service network, your MacPiler stays ready to perform throughout its entire lifecycle.

    Our experts support you from installation through long-term maintenance, upgrades, and spare parts.

  • Technical Features

    • Safe working load (SWL): up to 28 tonnes
    • Travel speed: 24 m/min
    • Lifting speed: 3 m/min
    • Operation: One panel at a time
    • Hatch cover handling: Panels can be safely stacked on neighbouring covers up to 6-panel high stacks
    • Drive system:
      • All-electric
      • Smooth in cold conditions, no heating oil required
    • Optional configurations: Auxiliary Jibs

  • Ship Types

    MacPiler is designed for:

    • Small general cargo ships up to ~12,000 DWT
    • Vessels with hatch openings up to 14,500 mm


    Its compact structure and modular design make it a flexible choice for newbuilds and retrofits alike.

  • Complementary Solutions

    MacPiler integrates seamlessly within MacGregor’s container stowage and hatch cover handling solutions, supporting:

    • Lift-away hatch cover systems
    • Tween decks and bulkheads
    • Electric deck machinery