Canadian-headquartered material handling system supplier Beumer Group said in April it had inked a deal with the Port of Saguenay in Quebec for the supply of 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) of large two-way pipe conveyor as part of a C$111 million strategic development project at the site.
Beumer officials said the conveyor will connect the port with customers in the new industrial port zone, which will be significant to boosting the region’s economic growth as well as its commitment to a more sustainable maritime supply chain.
The pipe conveyor at the port, which is about 500 km (310 miles) north of Montreal, will have a downhill (export) capacity of 4,150 t/h and an uphill (import) rate of 2,750 t/h. It is designed to run along an existing steep and curvy road, reducing the need for truck transport and any associated carbon, dust and noise emissions.
“Because the pipe conveyor is fully enclosed, it reduces any environmental impacts and protects bulk materials from the sun, rain, snow, and wind,” the company said. “The scope of the contract includes all mechanical, structural and electrical equipment including prefabricated electrical buildings and the control system.”
Since the pipe conveyor is central to the port’s new Multi-User Bulk Transport System, it will be key to the mission of increasing the port’s capabilities to import and export iron ore, pellets, wood ships, salt, aggregates and other ores.
“It will attract further investment in the region of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean,” CEO Markus Schmidt said. “On awarding…the contract, the Port of Saguenay Authority commented that they were particularly impressed with [our] engagement, commitment, and flexibility in understanding our requirements, especially regarding the importance to work with the community.”
Schmidt noted the Saguenay project is an important milestone for both it as well as the region.
“The expertise inherent in our global team enables us to deliver a conveyor solution on this scale, meeting the client’s criteria for improving capacity in bulk handling while reducing environmental impacts.”
The pipe conveyor is expected to be fully operational in 2025.