Sertec USA, Inc.
Installation Case Study
Panama Canal – Shipping Cranes
SERTEC USA, INC.
513-424-7777
INFO@SERTECINTERNATIONAL.COM
Case Study for The Panama Canal
Company profile
The Panama Canal is a 77.1-kilometre (48 mi) ship canal in Panama that connects the Atlantic
Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean. The canal cuts across the Isthmus of
Panama and is a key conduit for international maritime trade.
Technical situation
The Panama Canal, at any given time, has thousands of operating cranes, locks, ships,
containers and other objects that attract lightning. Couple that with Panama’s unpredictable and
ferocious lighting storms and you have a situation that is economically damaging and potentially
deadly. Cranes were frequently shut down and shipping platforms evacuated if there was a
threat of lightning.
Solution
SERTEC has installed over 200 units throughout the Panama Canal, mostly in port and lock
areas. These units have been installed atop stationary cranes, buildings, locks and ships.
Benefits
As of the result of the installation, there have been zero lightning strikes within the protected
areas. Cranes can now operate during lightning storms and are only evacuated in the event of
high winds or an extreme storm. The Canal, its workers and the companies who use it have all
received both economic and safety benefits from the installation of PDCE Suppressors.
Summary
Data from the Panama Canal and shipping ports show that the PDCE Sertec has been 100%
effective protecting the people and equipment in the Canal.
SERTEC USA, INC.
513-424-7777
INFO@SERTECINTERNATIONAL.COM