Abstract
Due to expanding productivity and environmental
regulations on a global scale, port facilities handling
bulk materials are now evaluating their existing systems
and preparing for future needs and liabilities. This article
reviews the design solutions for a proposed shiploader
and related equipment upgrades.
Renovations/Upgrades
The need to increase productivity and resolve environmental
issues are two major reasons for facility expansion and/or
upgrade.
The need to move more material, more quickly,
has produced larger ships whose capacities have exceeded
many port facilities’ loading and storage equipment.
This trend will continue as older, smaller Handysize bulk
carriers become out-dated and are replaced with larger
more efficient Capesize and Panamax vessels. The increased
capacities of shiploading equipment necessary to accommodate
these larger vessels will require modification of shore-based
material handling systems.
If a port facility does not have the physical
capacity for larger ships, it may become necessary to
handle more vessels at a much faster rate. Upgrades or
renovations of existing material handling systems (shiploaders,
conveyors and storage) can greatly increase the productivity
and efficiency of port facilities in handling the higher
volume of traffic.
Many port facilities have inadequate or
out-dated control equipment. Current PLC technology can
more efficiently monitor product volume and movement within
a system. It can also handle safety/emergency situations
such as belt misalignment/breakage, plugged chutes and
any emergency system shut-downs.
Global awareness of environmental issues
has forced dust control to be a serious issue at port
facilities. Monetary fines for pollution, as well as lost
product can greatly reduce a port’s efficiency and
ability to compete in a highly competitive global market.
Dust control modifications can virtually eliminate dusting
and result in significant cost savings
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