Bulk Handling News - Bruks Siwertell customer magazine issue 2, 2023

10 Our sustainability agenda: intensive, ambitious and collaborative

20

Long service lives: a design prerequisite

BRUKS SIWERTELL CUSTOMER MAGAZINE #2/2023

ABOUT BRUKS SIWERTELL

Bruks Siwertell is a market-leading supplier of dry bulk handling and wood processing systems. With thousands of installations worldwide, our machines handle raw materials from forests, fields, quarries and mines, maintaining critical supply lines for manufacturers, mills, power plants and ports.

We design, produce and deliver systems for ship loading, ship unloading, conveying, storing, stacking and reclaiming dry bulk materials, alongside equipment for chipping, screening, milling and processing wood for the bioenergy, biofuel, board, sawmill, pulp and paper industries.

An extensive global service team offers support to Bruks Siwertell customers whenever and wherever it is needed. bruks-siwertell.com

Sustainability as an opportunity

Dear reader,

Despite the turbulence in the world, dry bulk handling and woodprocessing operators are looking forward, seeking opportunities to secure a new, sustainable future. We want to actively contribute to this, and signals are that the industries do too.

Currently, we are experiencing fantastic growth and the number of inquiries continues to rise.

Bulk Handling News is a customer magazine for the dry bulk handling industry. The opinions expressed by the authors or individuals interviewed do not necessarily represent the views of Bruks Siwertell.

Publisher:

Bruks Siwertell AB

P.O. Box 566 Gunnarstorp SE-26725 Bjuv, Sweden

Editors:

Emily Brækhus Cueva emily.cueva@bruks-siwertell.com

Malin Pekberg malin.pekberg@bruks-siwertell.com

Lindsay Gilliland lindsay.gilliland@bruks-siwertell.com

Editorial assistant:

Anette Andersson anette.andersson@bruks-siwertell.com

Layout and production:

Metamorf Design Group AB

Image sources:

Shutterstock and Bruks Siwertell

Printed by:

@graphiken, Malmö 2023

We have put sustainability at the heart of our company, and our technology. We see sustainability as an opportunity, and this issue coincides with the release of our first full sustainability report.

It is not uncommon for companies to make the mistake of pitching sustainability against profitability. We believe that there is no such direct opposition. In today’s climate, to attract customers, partners and the best personnel, sustainability work has to be a prerequisite, particularly as the general need for dry bulk material continues its upward trajectory.

We have always been proud of the environmental legacy inherent in our equipment. We stand ready to help our customers as one of the industry’s most complete, technologically capable companies in dry bulk material handling and wood processing. We serve entire logistics chains, adding value and sustainability at every stage.

This issue serves to highlight the wealth of opportunities open to operators looking to move away from traditional technology. Our service work shows the operational longevity of our machines and how we support customers over decades. It also highlights new areas of growth and market developments.

As always, I hope that you enjoy reading about these, and much more, in this issue of Bulk Handling News.

Peter Jonsson, Group CEO

IN BRIEF

Outstanding grain unloading capabilities selected for new West African hub port

SMP selected a high-capacity grain handling Siwertell ship unloader based on three factors: unloading capacity; unloading efficiency; and environmental impact

New port development Bargny-Sendou, located near Dakar, Senegal, West Africa, will now feature a high-capacity grain handling Siwertell 640 M-type ship unloader, ordered by Senegal Minergy Port SA (SMP). Established to undertake the port’s development, SMP’s technology choice was based on three factors: unloading capacity; unloading efficiency; and environmental impact.

Financed by the Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN) and the Swedish Export Credit Corporation (SEK), which only invests in environmentally sustainable enterprises, the new unloader is planned to commence operations in mid-2024.

“So far, we have been very impressed with Bruks Siwertell’s work,” says Alexander Zalocosta, CFO, SMP. “As well as

being technical leaders in the dry bulk handling industry, the project team has been extremely personable throughout the process, showing keen attention to detail and professional rigour, which is second to none.

“Understanding that the success of any ship unloader will depend on the overall efficiency of the port’s dry bulk material handling system, Bruks Siwertell’s team has taken a hands-on approach to all elements, not just the unloader. This has been extremely useful to us, particularly given how important the successful integration of all elements of the port’s material handling system is,” adds Zalocosta.

It will be installed on a jetty 1,500m from the shore, and will have a continuous rated capacity of 1,200t/h.

Road-mobile technology ordered by East African cement operator

Siwertell road-mobile ship unloaders protect the environment from dust and spillage, and accommodate a range of vessel sizes

“Many African ports are undergoing a series of modernizations and our road-mobile systems are ideal for these programs. Not only do they protect the environment from dust and spillage, they offer flexibility, high material handling capacities, and accommodate a range of vessel sizes,” says Jörgen Ojeda, Sales Director, Mobile Unloaders, Bruks Siwertell.

A next-generation Siwertell 15 000 S road-mobile ship unloader has been ordered to deliver efficient, environment-friendly cement handling in East Africa. It is planned for delivery in spring 2024, and will offer a rated cement handling capacity of 500t/h, discharging vessels of up to 15,000 dwt.

Siwertell ship unloading technology specified for US cement handler

American-owned cement producer, Kosmos Cement Company, has recently taken delivery of a next-generation Siwertell road-mobile ship unloader for environmentfriendly cement handling at its Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania facility in the US.

“Kosmos Cement Company joins a number of US-based operators looking to Siwertell technology to meet their growing cement volume demands,” says Pedro Alfaro, Project Development Engineer, Bruks Siwertell. “Similarly, it needed a reliable cement handling system that would not only ensure environmental performance, but also deliver on capacity, through-ship efficiency and a tight delivery schedule.”

“Dry bulk markets, including the cement sector, can be quite unpredictable, with demand arising in regions that simply have not yet been developed. Road-mobile systems can literally drive to these locations, set up within an hour, and discharge vessels the moment that they have been unfolded,” he adds.

Designed to discharge vessels up to 5,000 dwt, the road-mobile unloader ensures operational flexibility, along with dust- and spillage-free cement handling at a rated capacity of up to 300t/h.

Bruks conveyors ordered for USA clinker operations

Borton LC, a USA construction firm, has placed an order for a Bruks conveyor system package. The three new belttype conveyor systems will deliver reliable, high-capacity material transfers and are specifically designed to withstand the extremely abrasive properties of clinker. They will be an integral part of a plant modification at Capitol Aggregates’ cement manufacturing facility in Texas.

“This new order continues our recent run of cement industry contracts,” notes Derek Tatum, Manager Business Development, Conveyor Technology, Bruks Siwertell. “We have a worldwide reputation for handling both cement and clinker and are currently helping a number of operators meet a rise in demand.”

The conveyors are being fabricated in Mexico and will be delivered to the operator later this year.

Siwertell ship unloaders commissioned at new Chinese power station

The commissioning of two large-scale Siwertell ST 790-D-type ship unloaders for a newly developed ultra-supercritical power station in southern China, is now complete, ensuring clean and efficient coal handling for their new owners. They are rail-mounted and offer a continuous rated coal handling capacity of 1,800t/h, with a peak capacity of 2,000t/h, discharging vessels of up to 100,000 dwt.

Siwertell screw-type ship unloaders are designed to handle coal and other dry bulk materials in the most environment-friendly way possible, with totally enclosed conveying lines from start to finish, providing an operation free from spillage, and reducing dust emissions to a minimum.

Road-mobile cement unloading capabilities added to US operations

A new Siwertell road-mobile ship unloader is up and running in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, USA, for returning customer, Cemex. The 10 000 S next-generation unit was delivered to the Mexico-based multinational building materials company at the end of 2022. It offers a continuous rated cement handling capacity of 300t/h and can discharge vessels up to 10,000 dwt.

“We are the only company able to offer a mobile ship unloader around this size,” explains Pedro Alfaro, Project Development Engineer, Bruks Siwertell. “This was a significant driver for the contract, along with our ability to deliver the unit within a short timeframe. It is now working hard, securing dust-free material transfers and keeping up with significant rises in cement demands.”

“The proven performance of Siwertell unloaders was an important element in them being selected for this new development,” explains Björn Ohlsson, Contract Manager, Bruks Siwertell. “Our technology is also much lower in weight than any equivalent capacity equipment, which minimized the load on the jetty, delivering significant cost savings in jetty construction.”

A pair of Siwertell ST 790-D-type ship unloaders secure enclosed coal handling for a new ultra-supercritical power station in southern China

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

By teaming up with customers through service programs, offering everything from equipment inspections and training to preventative maintenance and telephone support, customers can maximize their operational potential and increase overall value

COLLABORATIVE APPROACHES TO SERVICE are a powerful way to ensure that customer installations run smoothly for many years. “We take a team approach,” says Greg Hausler, Aftermarket Part and Service Manager, Bruks Siwertell Americas.

Bruks Siwertell’s service commitment is as dedicated as its product development and delivery programs. Through-life customer support is ensured through

emergency, on-demand and planned service agreements, which are all essential to maintaining safe, efficient and cost-effective operations.

“After each delivery, or if we are approached by a customer for specific spare parts, training or assistance, we are often able to work together to develop a long-term strategic plan to ensure optimal operations throughout the expected life of the equipment,” Hausler explains.

TEXT Greg Hausler

PHOTOS Bruks Siwertell

“By teaming up, customers can better understand the different levels of support that are available and we can more efficiently communicate and showcase the value of each service program.”

These service programs, which are available from Bruks Siwertell’s USA-based company, Bruks Siwertell Americas, comprise user groups, consignment programs, and service contracts.

Sharing expert knowledge

Users groups is a Bruks Siwertell-led classroom-based training experience. Events bring operations and maintenance personnel of similar equipment together and are hosted by expert Bruks equipment engineers, designers and aftersales support personnel.

Typically held over one to two days, the training sessions cover all aspects of equipment. Topics discussed include design and operating conditions, equipment operations, preventative maintenance procedures and safety.

“The goal with user groups is to promote effective discussions to improve the operability and the service life

Benefits of service contracts include reduced inventory management and overhead costs for end-users

of equipment,” notes Hausler. “They are really popular as they create an environment where we can share our expert knowledge, and end users can bring their real-life ‘lessonslearned’ experiences to the table.

“In addition to this, one of the main benefits of user group programs is team and relationship building,” he adds.

Critical parts on hand

Additional service support that customers can access are consignment or purchase agreements. Essentially, these are contractual agreements between Bruks Siwertell America and equipment owners that typically focus on ensuring the availability of strategic original equipment manufacturer (OEM) spare parts. “Although all parts are important, some are more critical than others, especially given the current post-pandemic global supply chain disruptions,” Hausler highlights. “When we enter into these agreements with our customers, we purchase these strategic spare and wear parts, and then store them within our warehouse facilities.

“When a part is needed, we are notified and then ship this part as quickly as possible, directly to whichever facility requires it. Most frequently, these agreements run between one and two years, and when they are reaching the end of the contract term, customers can elect to re-enter into an agreement or have all the remaining parts shipped to their warehouses,” Hausler says.

Consignment programs deliver significant benefits to customers. “Along with strengthening our relationships with customers, benefits include reduced inventory management and overhead costs for end-users. For example, they do not have the responsibility of warehousing, and the financial implications of inventory management resources.”

We take a team approach

GREG HAUSLER, AFTERMARKET PART AND SERVICE MANAGER, BRUKS SIWERTELL AMERICAS

Reducing maintenance costs

“Essentially, customers do not have to carry the immediate financial impact of inventory costs since costs are only incurred when parts ship to an end-user, so it is a much more effective budget strategy, particularly for large-scale operations, where the burden of direct inventory costs is significant,” he says.

“Additional advantages of these programs include a streamlined supply chain, and substantially reduced lead-times for critical parts. This can potentially have a huge impact on operational productivity if, for example, equipment is experiencing unplanned downtime. The availability of spare parts in these circumstances is vital,” adds Hausler.

The third main support strategy available to customers are service contracts. These too are contractual agreements between Bruks Siwertell Americas and a customer. As part of the agreement, Bruks Siwertell performs either yearly or twice-yearly mechanical and electrical equipment inspections, including a thorough inspection of all control systems and instrumentation.

During each inspection, a Bruks Siwertell representative is onsite for one to two days, completing a detailed review of the equipment, noting all aspects of the machine’s operation, safety and maintenance, and paying particularly close attention to wear items that may need to be replaced.

“Inspections are especially important for both customers and Bruks Siwertell,” Hausler says. “They not only ensure that equipment is operating at peak performance throughout its lifespan, but through regular inspections, engineers and personnel get to know each machine really well.

“In-depth knowledge means that teams are better able to understand how equipment is performing on a dayto-day basis and spot when something is not quite right. In many cases, incidents can be easily avoided through simple periodic visual inspections and items can be addressed before they cause long-term detrimental effects to the equipment. An exit interview with the customer, along with a formal written report summarizing the inspection and recommendations, is included with each inspection,” he notes.

Ensuring the longest lifespans

Like user groups and consignment programs, service contracts offer particular advantages to customers. By taking a proactive approach to maintenance through planned service contracts, equipment owners can be assured that they are keeping their equipment in prime operating condition and efficiency. This also delivers the longest lifespan for both parts and equipment as a whole. Furthermore, the timely replacement of wear parts decreases the likelihood of equipment downtime and ensures that recommended preventative maintenance schedules are carried out.

Contracts also offer the ability to increase the planning and preparation for major equipment overhauls and provide remote telephone support, on-site operator training opportunities, and spare parts discounts.

“We very much see our service support as an ongoing dialogue and collaboration with operators. Good service is about listening to what our customers need; we are all ears, and ready to tailor our service commitment accordingly,” Hausler concludes.

As part of a service contract, Bruks Siwertell Americas performs mechanical and electrical equipment inspections

OUR SUSTAINABILITY AGENDA: INTENSIVE, AMBITIOUS AND COLLABORATIVE

Over the last eighteen months, Bruks Siwertell has significantly deepened its sustainability agenda, developing a robust, measurable and accountable sustainability strategy, which is now road-mapped with goals and ambitions in place

SINCE THE COMPANY’S FOUNDING , Bruks Siwertell has always been proud of the environmental credentials built into its technology. But in today’s world, every business in industry must acknowledge how much work there is to do to address climate change.

“We work in environmentally intensive industries, so this is a challenge,” says Peter Jonsson, CEO, Bruks Siwertell Group. “But it is a challenge that Bruks Siwertell Group is taking on. Our main aim is to set the sustainability standard for the industries that we serve. This includes the dry bulk handling, woodprocessing and forestry sectors.

“Our sustainability work is assessed from an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) perspective,” Jonsson continues. “It is also linked to the seventeen United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), nine of which have been identified as areas of focus following a recent analysis.”

SDGs are designed to guide reflection and action on the most critical challenges, and opportunities facing humanity and the natural world. The toolbox for achieving them is the UN Global Compact principles. Bruks Siwertell’s sustainability work supports and integrates these into the Group’s policies and processes.

A busy, but rewarding year

Last year, we really started to formalize our sustainability journey, laying the foundation for this work. It has been wonderful to see our personnel’s interest and commitment to it,” Jonsson notes. “We have also recently released our first full sustainability report.”

In brief, over the last eighteen months, Bruks Siwertell Group has: appointed a sustainability team with representation from all business units; conducted a Group-wide materiality analysis, including risk analysis and stakeholder dialogues; developed a multi-year

TEXT Peter Jonsson and Anna Halling PHOTOS Bruks Siwertell, Shutterstock

sustainability strategy at Group level and a sustainability policy; developed local action plans; and vastly increased the awareness of its sustainability work in general.

“This intensive program has been critical to understanding the baseline environmental impact of the business, and the company’s potential to improve across all areas of sustainability,” explains Anna Halling, Chief Strategy Officer, Bruks Siwertell Group.

“We have also developed a new line of communication and graphics: Handling The Future. ‘Handling’ is a key word within the company, with equipment transferring dry bulk materials and processed wood in ports, forests and industrial settings and facilities.

drive a more sustainable world, preserving it for future generations,” Halling adds.

Getting down to details

The Group-wide materiality analysis was essential in mapping Bruks Siwertell’s sustainability strategy and has resulted in challenging but clear focus areas, with set ambitions to be achieved by 2030.

Bruks Siwertell’s environmental focus areas are product development, as well as energy, waste and emissions reductions. Work is underway to review electricity consumption by installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances in all offices and advocating renewable energy sources where possible. These measures have resulted in a reduction in the Group’s electricity consumption. The Group has also continued the phasing out of heating oil, in favor of certified renewable electricity.

The Group’s carbon footprint is reported according to the guidelines in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol scopes 1 and 2, and despite the increase in business activities during 2022, total energy consumption, measured in MWh, has been reduced by eight percent since 2021.

“We hope this new campaign represents our sustainability aims in a clear way. For us, Handling The Future means that we will do what we can, and what it takes now, to

“We are also working to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions throughout the value chain,” says Halling. “This year, each company within the Group will carry out climate calculations throughout their operations, and include direct and indirect emissions. This will enable us to prioritize actions in the areas where we can do the most good.”

CASE ONE: DIGITAL SOLUTIONS DELIVER NEW OPPORTUNITIES

As part of the company’s research and development strategy, digital tools and functions are being developed. Launching this year is Siwertell Smartview, a cloud-based industrial Internet of things (IIoT) system planned for phased integration into Siwertell technology.

Initially for introduction on new equipment deliveries, Siwertell Smartview will collect data during unloading and loading operations, which will provide detailed analysis of equipment performance, availability and reliability. In due course, the tool will be available for all Siwertell technology such as ship unloaders, including port-mobile and road-mobile units, and ship loaders.

The tool can monitor real-time operational parameters such as tons of material handled, average capacity, tons of material remaining in the vessel’s holds during unloading, and the overall duration of operations. All information can be simply accessed through a personal computer (PC), tablet or smartphone.

A significant element of Siwertell Smartview is its ability to generate a number of different reports, which not only enhances operational awareness, but also brings Siwertell expertise directly into the terminal as and when it is needed.

Ambitious but achievable goals

Bruks Siwertell has set a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2030, compared to a base level established in 2019.

“In addition to this, we have set other ambitious and measurable environmental protection targets. By 2030 we are aiming to: switch to 100 percent renewable electricity; bring the amount of waste generated in our global business units to zero; and ensure 90 percent circularity in our entire product range. These will be achieved through product development, and reducing waste from our operational emissions and energy use,” Halling highlights.

“Seeking circular solutions are important to reduce the overall environmental impact of the business and are therefore priority issues for Bruks Siwertell,” Halling continues. “Our service teams carry out repairs and maintenance to extend the service life of equipment and contribute to a reduction in waste. Service teams also ensure that customers understand how equipment is best operated and maintained, with optimal settings that lead to energy savings.

FOCUS AREAS

» Product development

» Reduce and limit CO₂ and greenhouse gas emissions

» Reduce energy use

» Reduce waste

FOCUS AREAS

» Health and safety

» Employee satisfaction

» Diversity and inclusion

“To support these efforts from offices upwards, we are looking for solutions where the waste contractor can be a partner, who in addition to the management of existing and relevant waste fractions, can also offer functions for measurement, follow-up and development.”

A priority: happy, healthy people

The company’s focus areas for the social element of its sustainability work comprise health and safety, personnel satisfaction and diversity and inclusion. “We recognize that happy, healthy people are fundamental to good business, and we are embracing this philosophy,” Halling stresses.

In 2022, Bruks Siwertell introduced a system for Groupwide employee satisfaction surveys. The results are recorded as an employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS), which is scaled from -100 to 100. The eNPS value is one of Bruks Siwertell’s new key figures. It has only been measured once before, delivering an eNPS score of 25, which demonstrates good levels of satisfaction, but by 2030, the aim is to raise this to a target score of 30.

MEASURABLE GOALS

» 50% reduction in CO₂ emissions

» 90% circularity of products

» Zero waste in our office units

» 100% renewable energy

MEASURABLE GOALS

» Zero workplace accidents

» 30 eNPS score

» 30% female managers

FOCUS AREAS

» Anti-corruption

» Supply chain management

» Management systems

MEASURABLE GOALS

» 100% compliance with Codes of Conduct for both suppliers and customers

» 100% of work processes updated and improved

ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL GOVERNANCE

As well as raising personnel satisfaction, by 2030 Bruks Siwertell is aiming for zero workplace accidents, and boosting gender equality by having at least 30 percent managers who identify as female.

A clear signal from the top

The third aspect of Bruks Siwertell’s sustainability work is governance and the sustainability focus areas within this are anti-corruption, supply chain management and management systems. These are essential to ensure that the company steers in the right direction. Bruks Siwertell’s main directives and goals have been evaluated and set by its owners, JCE Invest AB and Cargotec Sweden AB, and the senior management board.

“We recognize the urgency of the issues that we are working on. With our long-term ambition to set the sustainability standard for the industries that we serve, it is easier to drive towards this when owners and management have a common understanding of the importance of the issue,” Jonsson says. “Our measurable governance goals by 2030 have been set as 100 percent compliance with Codes of Conduct for both suppliers and customers and 100 percent of work processes updated and improved.”

Sustainable value chains

Bruks Siwertell already delivers ship unloaders, loaders and conveyors that possess the key elements for environmental protection: no spillage; minimal dust emissions; low noise levels; equipment reparability and longevity; low energy-consumption demands; and extremely high through-ship efficiencies, which maximize vessel turnarounds leading to the increased efficiency of dry bulk trades. Many of these elements extend to the Group’s wood-processing systems as well.

At each point of technological development, the environmental impact of equipment has been addressed, but this is not a static process. Sustainability encompasses much more than an environmental lens and extends throughout the value chain. Bruks Siwertell’s value chain comprises nine key areas: innovation and development; sales to customers; construction; materials and suppliers; assembly and manufacturing; distribution and transport, products in use; service, repair and maintenance; and recycling.

“ We work in environmentally intensive industries, so this is a challenge, but it is a challenge that Bruks Siwertell Group is taking on Peter Jonsson, CEO Bruks Siwertell Group

CASE TWO: AUTOMATED, ENCLOSED SYSTEMS ENSURE ENVIRONMENTAL AND EFFICIENCY GAINS

In 2022, Bruks Siwertell completed a project with an American customer in the corrugated board industry. All its facilities are certified according to the USA’s Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), a certification that ensures that the forest is managed in an environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically sustainable way.

The operator needed a complete raw material receiving and transfer system to modernize an existing and costly, partly manually handled woodyard for one of its US-based paper mills. In response, Bruks Siwertell designed an automated, enclosed solution to handle sawdust, wood chips and bark, which increased efficiency and reduced operating costs. Inventory control was also improved, as well as maintaining consistency in material quality within the pile.

Environmental gains were significant as the automated systems eliminated the need for the continuous use of diesel-powered machines to manage the piles, and dust emissions were reduced in comparison with mobile systems. Dust emissions were further reduced with the use of Bruks truck-receiving technology, specially designed to accommodate a covered hopper and equipped with dust collectors.

Traditional conveyor equipment was also replaced with an energy-efficient, fully enclosed low-friction conveying system, which minimizes material degradation and further dust formation. As the air-supported conveyor system eliminates the need for traditional rollers, maintenance requirements and costs were also significantly lowered.

The chain starts with understanding customer needs and market knowledge, driving the company’s development projects. This is a continuous process, occurring during projects where customers require specific solutions that are adapted to their operational requirements.

The sale of equipment happens through representatives, partners, and dealers, with lead times dependent on the equipment and customer requirements. This is followed by the construction phase, and can comprise project-based, tailormade or standardized products.

Critical elements in the cycle

External collaborations with suppliers are critical and set within the Group’s Code of Conduct framework, enabling long-term, successful relationships. This includes materials suppliers as well. The majority of Bruks Siwertell’s products can be manufactured by completely or partly recycled materials, with assembly or manufacturing from these materials taking place

as close to customers as possible, reducing the impact of transport.

Transport, both in the form of deliveries to the factory and the distribution of products and systems to the customer, is mainly carried out by truck freight. In specific circumstances, container vessels or break bulk vessels are used because of the size of the equipment, and when ship unloaders are delivered fully assembled, this is carried out via heavy-lift vessels.

Our products are used, for example, in port operations, forestry settings, sawmills, power plants and pulp and paper industries. These are challenging environments with high demands on efficiency, reliability and safety. A key part of a product’s ongoing performance is service, repair and maintenance. A commitment to through-life care underpins Bruks Siwertell’s delivery promises. Once equipment, which is predominantly steel, has reached the end of its service life, the majority can be recycled.

No stopping us now

“Over the past year, we have set our strategy and carried out extensive mapping and planning work. This year it is time to move from plan to action. Going forward, it is important that we continue to ensure that we have sufficient resources for this work and maintain the current commitment to continue to motivate our personnel. We will do this by communicating the impact that they are having.

“The intensity of Bruks Siwertell Group’s sustainability work will continue and is constantly developing as we learn more. If targets are achieved, we will set tougher ones,” concludes Jonsson.

JOIN OUR JOURNEY

Stakeholders underpin the business and Bruks Siwertell’s sustainability work. Therefore, this year the company is looking to extend and expand stakeholder dialogues and initiatives.

“Our sustainability journey is not one we want to do, or can do, alone; we hope that as many of our customers, suppliers, business partners and other stakeholders as possible join us in these efforts,” says Anna Halling, Chief Strategy Officer, Bruks Siwertell.

To further Bruks Siwertell’s sustainability work, and ensure that the dry bulk handling industry is sustainable as possible, Bruks Siwertell would welcome:

• ideas for partnerships around sustainable joint initiatives

• ideas and feedback on where research and developments should be focused. This could connect to operational requirements or increased restrictions in specific industry environments

• ideas about sharing how to achieve Bruks Siwertell Group’s 2030 goals

• knowledge sharing, including examples and inspiration about initiatives that have enabled other stakeholders to already achieve set sustainability targets

If you are interested in participating or have any other relevant ideas that you would like to share, please contact: Anna Halling, Chief Strategy Officer. anna.halling@bruks-siwertell.com

Bruks Siwertell Group aims to set the sustainability standard for the industries that we serve, and through ambitious targets, make a positive impact on surrounding ecosystems

Bruks Siwertell Group sustainability ambition for 2030

BULK DAY SEMINAR ENCOURAGES MEXICAN DRY BULK MARKET DIALOGUES

Lively discussion, interesting dry bulk market insights, and the transfer of expert knowledge are just a few of the benefits generated by this year’s first Bulk Day Seminar, held in Veracruz, Mexico

BRUKS SIWERTELL’S COMMITMENT to ongoing stakeholder dialogues takes shape in a number of ways; Bulk Day Seminars are one of them. This year’s Bulk Day Seminar schedule started with an event held in Veracruz, in east-central Mexico; a hub port that accesses global waters via the Gulf of Mexico gateway.

The one-day event was hosted by Patrik Henryson, Sales Manager Latin America and Caribbean, Bruks Siwertell, Per Hansson, Sales Director, Bruks Siwertell, Daniel Frostberg, Service Director, Bruks Siwertell, along with Bruks Siwertell representatives, Julian Luna Beckley and Francisco Theiler from South Point Engineering, Argentina.

Attended by almost 30 invited participants, ranging from maintenance managers, project and logistics

directors, operations and project managers, and presidents and owners of companies, the day followed its familiar, successful format of presentations and a site visit.

The destination this time was the Port of Veracruz, which is undergoing a development program that will see it become one of the most advanced port terminals in the world. Benefiting from USD 5 billion of investment, which will quadruple its installed capacity to reach more than 90 million metric tons by 2030, part of Veracruz’s development is five new terminals and a new cargo processing and logistics area.

A glowing example

Integral to this is Grupo Gramosa’s USD 85 million project, Puertos Especializados Transnacionales

(PETRA), a new agri-bulk terminal designed for the specialized handling of solid, liquid and semi-liquid agricultural bulks.

Underpinning the terminal’s dry bulk imports is a single rail-mounted Siwertell ST 640-M ship unloader, which was commissioned in 2021. It is delivering exceptional grain handling and environmental protection to the port, and this was the destination for Bulk Day Seminar participants.

The screw-type ship unloader has a continuous rated capacity of 1,200t/h and a peak one of 1,320t/h, discharging vessels up to 80,000 dwt. The unloader’s flexibility enables it to handle a number of different grains such as corn, soya meal, dried distillers grains (DDGs), and canola seeds without any loss of efficiency.

TEXT Patrik Henryson PHOTOS Bruks Siwertell

Positive operator feedback

Feedback from Grupo Gramosa following the event describes how delighted the operator was to be able to showcase the capabilities of the PETRA terminal and open its doors to this large group of Bulk Day Seminar visitors.

“For us it was a great pleasure to participate and enjoy this event, which in its organization was practically perfect,” says José Luis Pavón Boylan, Subdirector PETRA, Grupo Gramosa. “From my perspective, the content of the presentations was excellent, they gave us the opportunity to learn more about what Bruks Siwertell and South Point Engineering have to offer,

and the questions and comments from the participants showed a lot of interest in Siwertell equipment, engineering and what they offer additionally. Furthermore, topics were enriched with the shared experiences of other Latin American (LATAM) terminals.

“I especially would have liked the visit to the terminal to have coincided with the ship unloader in operation, just so that we could have demonstrated and evidenced the operational benefits that were discussed in the presentations.

“I believe that the event was successful because it met its objectives, even exceeding them with the number of interested

participants. I have nothing left to add, but to congratulate you for your good judgment and professionalism,” says Boylan.

Shared knowledge experience

Other feedback from participants supports this view. For example, Jorge Baquerizo, General Manager, Andipuerto Guayaquil, says: “Thank you very much to the organizers of the event, to the representatives of Bruks Siwertell for their magnificent presentations and to the executives and collaborators of PETRA for providing their excellent facilities. This has allowed us to incorporate their good management practices for port facilities into our knowledge.”

The day included a site visit to the Port of Veracruz and Grupo Gramosa’s new PETRA agri-bulk terminal

“The day generated many interesting discussions,” continues Patrik Henryson, Sales Manager Latin America and Caribbean, Bruks Siwertell. “The seminar focused on specific, selected dry bulk material handling operations from a variety of customers, predominantly in the fertilizer and agricultural dry bulk sectors. Presentations raised a lot of good discussions and some customers got new ideas about their own projects when they saw a unit in real life. After this Bulk Day Seminar’s great success, we will definitely repeat the event for the Mexican dry bulk materials market.

“One of the best elements about Bulk Day Seminars are the opportunities for these discussions, they are valuable for all the participants, including us. They deliver real operator feedback and a regional understanding of dry bulk markets. This knowledge transfer works both ways, we are able to facilitate a shared learning experience, and impart technological knowledge,” notes Henryson. “We also gain a greater understanding of the nuances of operating in particular regions.”

Bulk Day Seminar presentations outlined the operational and technical capabilities of Siwertell screwtype ship unloaders. For the agribulk market, they can discharge grain and cereals from vessels up to 230,000 dwt at rated capacities up to 2,400t/h, and loaders deliver the market’s highest continuous rated capacities, which are in excess of 3,000t/h. For other dry bulk materials, unloading rates can be as high as 3,000t/h and loading up to 12,000t/h for iron ore, discharging vessels up to 300,000 dwt.

Latest advances highlighted

In addition to a focus on how to deliver leading fertilizer and agri-bulk ship unloading solutions, which offer minimal material degradation, low energy demands and high throughship capacities and efficiencies, presentations also covered new advances from Bruks Siwertell.

These included significant advances from a research and development (R&D) program, which was completed in 2021. It targeted improving the lifetime of the vertical screw conveyor and its component parts. The grain handling market was taken as the program’s core segment because, as an industry, it has to meet some of the most demanding operational conditions. It is also an extremely competitive market that places substantial expectations on component lifetimes and through-life costs.

Other presentations included this year’s phased introduction of the new digital tool, Siwertell Smartview. It is the latest industrial Internet of things (IIoT) system planned for integration into Siwertell technology

and is designed to optimize the productivity and profitability of dry bulk handling operations, and deliver a better understanding of components through enhanced data analysis.

The Siwertell anti-collision system was also discussed. It uses specialist software integrated into the unloader’s programmable logic controller (PLC) and human machine interface (HMI), along with features such as 3D-scanners that analyze the material surface, 2D sensors for anti-collision data, and GPS sensors as well. The whole system prevents the Siwertell unloader’s vertical arm and the horizontal arm colliding with the ship’s hatch coaming.

“All the presentations were wellreceived and we are grateful for the generosity of our customers sharing their experiences and contributing to these industry dialogues. Our hope is to keep up the momentum of interest from these Bulk Day Seminars,” Henryson adds.

Bruks Siwertell is planning two further Bulk Day Seminars this year, one in Colombia and another in Brazil.

The content of the presentations was excellent, they gave us the opportunity to learn more

JOSÉ LUIS PAVÓN BOYLAN, SUBDIRECTOR PETRA, GRUPO GRAMOSA

LONG SERVICE LIVES: A DESIGN PREREQUISITE

Hard at work for over 40 years, a cement handling Siwertell ship unloader now has a new lease of life following a slewing bearing replacement, underpinning the importance of good maintenance

WHAT DO A WIND TURBINE , a battle tank, and a Siwertell unloader have in common? A slewing bearing. It is one of those quiet inventions that move the world without most people having to pay much attention.

Like many of the parts chosen by Bruks Siwertell, the quality and simplicity of this component generally means that minimal maintenance is required. This was illustrated in one recent maintenance case, on a continuous Siwertell screw-type ship unloader operated by Forth Ports Limited in the Port of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland.

A permanent fixture

The Port of Leith is the largest enclosed deepwater port in Scotland, and serves as a staging point for offshore windfarms, as well as oil and gas platforms in the North

Sea. It also handles a diverse array of shipments, which include project and ro-ro cargoes, recycling and cars, as well as dry bulk materials. For importing cement, Leith uses a Siwertell ST 440-D unloader, which discharges vessels at 500t/h and was delivered all the way back in 1980.

Recently, Bruks Siwertell was contracted to replace its slewing bearing, for the second time in more than 40 years.

“The world was a different place when this system was installed, not least because of the differing market dynamics at play,” explains Daniel Frostberg, Service Director, Bruks Siwertell. “It is one thing to point out the fact that the system is still working. But the real testament to its design is that it is still capable of meeting the Port’s needs today, just as it did before the first space shuttle was launched.”

TEXT Daniel Frostberg PHOTOS Bruks Siwertell

Replacing a slewing bearing in a large Siwertell unloader is one of the more complex service tasks. It required removing the top of the system, the vertical arm and its attached platform, as well as the turret, which necessitated the use of several cranes. Machinists were dispatched to fabricate the new components, including a new slewing bearing.

Keeping good company

Forth Port’s unloader is far from the only one in its age bracket still operating. Another example is a rail-mounted Siwertell ST 440-C cement unloader, which has been in operation in Duluth, Minnesota, USA since 1982, and was recently outfitted with updated electric motors, as well as modern touchscreen control.

Although it is true that in some cases Bruks Siwertell does have to advise when new equipment is needed, the company prides itself on knowing the difference. If the same requirements can be met with an existing system, even one with major upgrades, Bruks Siwertell works with customers not to replace it. It is also part of the company’s sustainability strategy.

In another example of this, a railmounted Siwertell ST 490-M Siwertell unloader replaced a similar unit in 2019. Its predecessor had served Norwegian owner Yara International, unloading cargoes of rock phosphate and potash for 40 years, in Glomfjord, above the Arctic Circle.

Common to these installations is the desire, shared with the customer, to perform regular maintenance, as well as preventive maintenance, which involves the timely replacement of wear components to avoid failures, and the longer periods of downtime they entail. It is well understood by many ports that delaying maintenance in exchange for extra uptime is a false economy.

Longevity pays dividends

Following the six weeks of work on its machine, feedback from Forth Ports notes that: “The system is working fine and feels like a new unloader, with much smoother slewing.”

“Forth Ports are very satisfied with the work carried out,” says Jonas Hansen, Surveyor, Bruks Siwertell. “We have supported the company over four decades and it is a very good customer to work with. Forth Ports values the importance of maintenance and it does the necessary work to keep the unloader running. Now that the equipment is fully overhauled, we expect it to have many years of reliable service ahead.

“Many of our customers are very conscientious about maintaining their unloaders, as they understand that a well-kept Siwertell machine will go a long way. Also, over the coming years, as sustainability becomes higher and higher on agendas, and a key principle in purchasing decisions, it will not be surprising if companies place an even greater emphasis on equipment that features longevity as one of its design priorities. Our portfolio demonstrates that this has been a major consideration for us for decades now,” Hansen stresses.

Forth Ports values the importance of maintenance

STACKER RECLAIMER UPGRADES OFFER RELIABLE, SAFE, IMPROVED PERFORMANCE

A slew dynamic-braking modification, available on Bruks circular overpile stacker reclaimers (COSRs), delivers better reclaimer profiles, less wear and tear on static braking components, more accurate stops and greater resistance from external influences

TEXT Paul Emfinger PHOTOS Bruks Siwertell

THE COMBINED, AUTOMATED TECHNOLOGY of Bruks stacker reclaimers makes them extremely costeffective and efficient, and they substantially reduce the environmental impact of storing and reclaiming dry bulk materials, in comparison with manually managed piles. This stems from efficiency gains and minimized power requirements, eliminating the use of diesel-driven work vehicles, and from a reduction in dust emissions.

With these attributes, it is not hard to understand their on-going and increasing popularity with operators. Automated stacker reclaimers are designed for years of intensive, reliable use, and when Bruks Siwertell can offer upgrades to their performance through its commitment to product and service development, it will. In line with this approach, a range of electrical modifications and upgrades for existing installations is available.

Pile accuracy enhanced

A notable example is a slew dynamic-braking upgrade available for Bruks circular overpile stacker reclaimers (COSRs), which enhances the safety and accuracy of the machine’s operation on the pile.

Mainly used by the pulp and paper and wood pellet industries, along with power-generation plants, COSRs effectively handle huge volumes of wood chips and coal, and can be delivered with capacities from 113m3 (4,000ft 3) up to around 170,000m3 (six million ft3) of live storage.

In addition to limiting dust creation, COSRs deliver systematized stacking and zoned piles that enable smooth, effective reclaim sequences. They minimize the space needed to store significant volumes of materials by organizing the process into semi-circular pile arrangements. The storage and reclaiming technologies on COSRs work independently of each other, with blending occurring during the stacking and reclaiming phases, reducing variability in the pile.

“To understand the key benefits of a slew dynamic-braking upgrade for this equipment, one must consider how the COSR operates,” says Paul Emfinger, Key Account Manager and Electrical Engineer, Bruks Siwertell. “The reclaimer boom slews laterally from side-to-side with pre-set positions and drops to create the profile used to reclaim the appropriate volume of material based on the facility’s desired rate. It does this in a pre-set sequence through these assigned zones, with material recovered using a chain and rake conveyor, located on the reclaimer boom.”

Wear and tear reduced

“Environmental conditions, such as wind loads and material water content, play a role in the amount of load the slew drives see on each pass,” Emfinger explains. “As higher production rates are required, demand from the plant is significantly increased. Increased rates require the reclaimer boom’s acceleration and deceleration slewing speeds to increase. Many biomass power plants also require the reclaimer to function in a ‘hot feed’, with no intermediate storage silo; a condition that also increases performance demands on the slew drives.

“Material pile management at facilities attempting to increase the number of cuts, or reclaimer pile sections, on a stacked pile, frequently require the reclaimed pile angle to be steeper. This also increases higher stopping loads,” he adds.

“Varying wind loads, combined with the increased slew speeds on stacked reclaim profiles, require higher stopping power from these systems,” Emfinger continues. “These conditions mean that regenerated energy from deceleration and stopping is transferred to the direct current (DC) bus of the variable frequency drives (VFDs). It is more consistent to bleed-off the excess regenerative voltage into a resistor. This method protects the VFD from potential frequency increases, which can occasionally cause runaway conditions if the drive is attempting to reduce its bus voltage for too long a protection period.

“A slew dynamic-braking upgrade includes dynamicbraking resistors, field wiring components, and install and programming specifically designed for each COSR, taking into consideration both the motor and/or drive combination with the mechanical and electro-mechanical loads. This enhances braking capacity and delivers more accurate and reliable stopping profiles. It also tends to reduce the number of pile collisions, therefore requiring less operational intervention,” notes Emfinger.

The braking modification means less wear and tear on static braking components and on all other mechanical drive components as well. It also lessens the potential for machinery stalls, which reduces maintenance requirements and reset alarms.

Reclaimer booms slew from side-to-side and drop to create the profile used to reclaim the appropriate volume of material based on the facility’s desired rate

On-site reclaimer tuning ensures that the reclaimer and stacker slew drives, and current reclaim profiles are optimally configured. The upgrade can be carried out in two to four days including tuning and configuration. “Timings depend on any additional tuning requested by the facility, but typically total machine downtime is limited to a single day, around eight hours for the actual installation,” says Emfinger. “Many customers are already benefiting from this upgrade.”

Maintaining peak performance

Similar dynamic-braking modifications can be carried out on other stacker reclaimers in Bruks Siwertell’s portfolio, and in addition to these, other electrical upgrades include: the replacement of hoist encoders with inclinometers, which allow for more accurate

boom angle readings; programmable logic controller (PLC) updates to bring machinery performance up to the latest standards; and the addition of dual human machine interface (HMI) screens, where one screen is dedicated to the reclaimer and one for the stacker. This enhanced boom monitoring reduces user errors and improves pile safety.

“Numerous customers are reaching out for information on this particular service as it really helps manage a pile and ensure safety,” Emfinger highlights. “All these upgrades and modernizations are designed to enhance the operational performance of our technology. They ensure that over decades of service, our equipment maintains, and even improves, its ability to keep delivering the high levels of safety, economy, and environmental protection that it did from the outset.”

Environmental conditions and water content impact the amount of load the slew drives see on each pass

Typically, total machine downtime is limited to a single day

PAUL EMFINGER, KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEER, BRUKS SIWERTELL

FAST-GROWING DRY BULK MARKETS

MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND EFFICIENCY ADVANTAGES ON OFFER TO INDIA’S

There is huge potential to deliver sustainability and capacity benefits to India’s extensive dry bulk port developments, and further the country’s green economy ambitions, explains Jan Karlsson, Sales Director APAC, Bruks Siwertell

INDIA’S ECONOMY IS GROWING FAST and its government has ambitious plans for the future. According to a World Bank update in April 2023, although there are significant challenges in the global environment, India’s economy has shown resistance and remains as one of the fastest rising in the world. Its overall growth is estimated to be 6.9 percent for the full year.

In addition to growth, India has committed to numerous sustainability goals. Its Maritime India Vision 2030, created with the objective of

propelling India to the forefront of the global maritime sector in the next decade, involves the development of green ports and green shipping.

A pivotal role

India has over 7,500 km of coastline, and hundreds of ports. So, within this picture, its dry bulk sector plays a pivotal role; approximately 350 million metric tons of dry bulk were imported in 2019 and around 75 million metric tons exported in the same year.

Looking at this in more detail, coal, fertilizer and limestone remain amongst the largest import volumes, while iron ore, grain products and salt are India’s main dry bulk exports. Bruks Siwertell is involved in almost all of India’s dry bulk markets, with particular prominence in the fertilizer industry and for securing environment-friendly coal handling.

Deliveries to the fertilizer sector include four Siwertell ship unloaders for the importation of rock phos-

TEXT Jan Karlsson PHOTOS Bruks Siwertell, Shutterstock

phate and sulfur, which are important ingredients in its manufacture.

Fertilizers underpin India’s national food production. With India’s population predicted to be the largest in the world by the end of this year, surpassing China, food security is a growing concern.

Food needs fertilizers

Working hard to secure these imports is, for example, Paradeep Phosphates Limited (PPL), a leading fertilizer industry company operating in the state of Odisha, India. PPL is headquartered in Bhubaneswar, and is a major manufacturer of phosphatic fertilizers, ranking as Asia’s second largest producer of diammonium phosphate (DAP).

Since 2006, a rail-mounted Siwertell 640 D-type ship unloader has been serving the company. It has been a critical part of the port’s environmental transformation, supporting a switch from open-air handling of sulfur with a bucket-type unloader, to safe, fully enclosed, dust-free operations.

The installation has now been in operation for more than 15 years and has been so successful at speeding up vessel turnarounds for PPL, and thereby reducing freight costs and demurrage, that a return on investment has been achieved in a short space of time.

Highlighting this success further, in 2021, Bruks Siwertell won a contract to deliver a second Siwertell 640 D-type ship unloader to PPL, enabling the company to keep pace with its expansion plans and an increase in volume demands in

the most sustainable and environment-friendly way possible.

Expanding sulfur imports

Like PPL’s first unloader, the new rail-mounted ST 640-D unit has the capacity to discharge sulfur from vessels up to 60,000 dwt in size, at a rated capacity of 1,500t/h. It will alternate handling sulfur cargo with rock phosphate at a rate of 1,200t/h and muriate of potash (MOP) at 1,050t/h. It will have a similar set up as the existing unit, but will also feature updated, modern components and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions.

Both units, like all Siwertell ship unloaders that handle sulfur, are fitted with the Siwertell Sulfur Safety System (4S), which was first developed over 30 years ago to minimize the risk of explosions when handling this extremely volatile and corrosive dry bulk material in a contained environment. Siwertell technology is the only ship unloading system that is able to offer safe and totally enclosed sulfur handling, offering a lifeline to sulfur importers like PPL.

PPL’s new unloader has now been delivered and is currently undergoing its installation and commissioning phase, which are planned

India’s economy is one of the fastest rising in the world

WORLD BANK UPDATE, APRIL 2023

for completion later this year. It will work on the same jetty as Bruks Siwertell’s previous delivery and double the operator’s material handling capacity, delivering a very efficient terminal with top of the line environmental credentials.

The high efficiency of the Siwertell unloaders means that vessel unloading times will be kept to an absolute minimum, reducing demurrage, and maximizing the utilization rate of the jetty. Furthermore, the totally

enclosed Siwertell conveyor systems minimize dust creation and eliminate spillage, maximizing the terminal’s environmental protection.

Long-serving machines

Since 2011, Paradeep Port has also been served by a high-capacity, rail-mounted Siwertell ST 790-D unloader, which was delivered to Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative Limited (IFFCO). IFFCO is another leading player in India’s fertilizer

India imports more than 300 million metric tons of dry bulk per year; Siwertell unloaders contribute to this

industry and runs one of the world’s largest DAP plants, producing around two million metric tons of fertilizer a year.

The plant needs raw materials, including rock phosphate and sulfur, and this is where the Siwertell ship unloader makes its mark. Able to unload sulfur from vessels up to 75,000 dwt at 1,800t/h, the Siwertell unit, with its fully enclosed conveying system, also replaced a grab crane and prevents dust emissions, further improving the environmental conditions at the port.

By switching from open grab systems to enclosed Siwertell unloaders, both IFFCO as well as PPL’s Siwertell ship unloaders have significantly increased the dry bulk handling efficiency of the terminals and vastly improved the local environment. This move away from grab cranes can also be noted in Visakhapatnam, the most populous city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. In 2002, Coromandel Fertilisers Ltd, was facing two issues that needed to be addressed: an existing 30-year-old grab unloader needed a replacement and environmental claims from the naval base opposite the terminal had to be dealt with.

In 2003, the operator made the switch to a Siwertell ST 490-F unit, eliminating spillage, minimizing dust emissions, and substantially increasing the cleanliness of the port. The unloader’s high capacity material handling also significantly outstripped the through-ship efficiency of the terminal’s aging grab crane.

Insatiable appetites for energy

Rising populations also demand energy. The Indian energy sector is heavily investing in non-fossil fuel and renewable energy production, especially solar and wind. However, it recognizes that this will not be enough, quickly enough, to meet the country’s insatiable appetite for energy. Like the rest of the world, India is trying to balance demand with supply and its government currently sees coal-fired power stations as the only viable alternative for some time to come.

According to India Energy Outlook 2021, India is the world’s third-largest energy-consuming country, and energy use has doubled since 2000, with 80 percent of demand still being met by coal, oil and solid biomass.

Even though India has significant reserves of domestic coal, there is a growing demand for imported coal. Like the fertilizer sector, in many coal import terminals where grab cranes are traditionally used, there are significant environmental problems with spillage and dust creation. Grab

cranes can lose up to two percent of a shipment. Through the use of enclosed Siwertell technology and services, we can help operators decrease their environmental impact when handling coal.

For example, Siwertell ship unloading technology handles coal in a way that absolutely minimizes the environmental impact of the ship to shore link. Enclosed systems minimize dust and eliminate spillage. Installing Siwertell unloaders for coal handling can make very significant positive environmental impacts within import terminals and their surroundings.

Benefiting from this is Essar Bulk Terminals; a company that developed the port of Salaya, in the Indian state of Gujarat, into a world-class terminal to meet the region’s powergeneration needs.

Ensuring environmental protection

Salaya hosts the region’s busy fishing industry and is located close to a national nature reserve and bird

sanctuary; therefore, extremely strict environmental protection regulations are in place. Meeting these are two screw-type Siwertell ST 940-DOB ship unloaders and one belt-conveyor type Siwertell ship loader, which were delivered in 2011.

Accommodating vessels up to 180,000 dwt, each unloader is designed to discharge coal at a rated capacity of 2,300t/h. The loader can handle ships up to 70,000 dwt and is designed to load petroleum coke at a rated capacity of 1,500t/h.

In addition to environmental and capacity advantages, a further benefit of the Siwertell equipment was its relatively low weight, which reduced the cost of constructing the new jetty. Each unloader weighs 912 metric tons and the loader weighs 289 metric tons.

Essar Bulk Terminals, part of Indian multinational conglomerate Essar Group, also operates another Siwertell ship loader in the port of Paradeep. Since 2011, it has delivered reliable, efficient iron ore pellet handling at a rated capacity of 4,000t/h.

By offering the market technology with the highest possible environmental credentials, Bruks Siwertell makes dry bulk material handling as clean as possible

JAN KARLSSON, SALES DIRECTOR APAC, BRUKS SIWERTELL

For those operators who are ultimately looking to switch from handling coal to renewable biomass pellets for energy production, for example, Siwertell ship unloaders and loaders are able to handle multiple materials, efficiently and safely. They support coal-fired power plants with co-firing –burning coal and bio-mass – through to their complete transition to only burning biomass.

Biomass pellets are fragile, and break down if not handled correctly. They are also very dusty and prone to selfignition. Totally enclosed Siwertell unloaders are capable of mitigating these risks, and minimizing any material degradation. This maintains the quality of the shipment and combustion efficiency.

The benefits delivered by Siwertell technology is not just limited to India’s fertilizer and coal handling sectors. A growing environmental

movement in the country is putting ever greater pressure on local governments and port operators to improve their operational practices and deliver cleaner environments.

Switching from grabs

Bruks Siwertell is active in most of the country’s dry bulk markets, with its technology delivering substantial environmental advantages compared to today’s prevalence of traditional grab crane technology in many Indian ports.

By offering the market state-ofthe-art ship unloading and loading equipment, with the highest possible environmental credentials, Bruks Siwertell contributes to making dry bulk material handling as clean as possible, minimizing the impact from spillage and dust.

Furthermore, Siwertell technology delivers market-leading capacities

and efficiencies, enabling operators to maximize port throughput. The well-known phrase, a ship only earns money when it is at sea, emphasizes the importance of equipment that delivers the shortest vessel turnaround times. If terminals can handle more vessels with the same investment, jetty utilization rates are raised along with profitability.

Given India’s population growth and its rapid economic development, the future holds an increased demand for the import of all dry bulk cargoes. This will require modern, efficient, high-capacity ship unloading equipment, which also minimizes the environmental impact of dry bulk material handling.

Bruks Siwertell wants to lead the industry’s sustainability drive, and believes that the installation of enclosed Siwertell technology is an ideal solution from both an economic, and an environmental perspective.

Totally enclosed Siwertell conveyor systems minimize dust creation and eliminate spillage

Bruks Siwertell is involved in almost all of India’s dry bulk markets

JAN KARLSSON, SALES DIRECTOR APAC, BRUKS SIWERTELL

OUR PEOPLE Ted Owenby

SITE COORDINATOR

Based in Alpharetta, USA, Ted Owenby works with almost all Bruks Siwertell products; with early career experiences as a welder, and 13 years in the position, he likes being part of a team, his decisions being trusted, and always looks forward to the next job

WHAT IS REALLY GREAT ABOUT MY ROLE , is how happy our customers are, and the amount of positive feedback that I receive when I go back and visit them a few months after installation. I get to work with pretty much all products in the Bruks Siwertell portfolio, from ship loaders to idler and air-supported conveyors, truck dumps and stacker reclaimers, and most recently Siwertell screw-type ship unloaders and conveyor systems.

This wide range of equipment is always developing and advancing, such as with The Belt ConveyorTM which uses air-cushion technology and the blending bed style of stacker reclaimer.

Experience helps on site

In terms of my responsibilities, depending on the situation, I may work with a team of contractors to complete the installation of an entire woodyard of Bruks equipment, or when I am between these large projects, I will be visiting fabricator workshops to ensure the quality of our equipment, or helping out our aftersales and service division with customer upgrades.

I meet all levels of people in my work and before I am finished on a project, it is not unusual for me to be on a first-name basis with everyone from the mill manager to

each contractor on site, and many people at local supply stores in the area.

To do the job well, you need a good understanding of heavy construction and the ability to work with all types of people. Ironworkers, welders, pipefitters, riggers, and crane operators, for example. These are tough people, doing a demanding job. You have to know when it is appropriate to push for more, or whether a simple thing like a pat on the back and telling them you appreciate what they are doing, will get the same results. I guess it helps that I was one of these guys; an ironworker and a welder for several years.

A job well done

The thrill in my job is finishing, and not because the project is done, but because I love to look back and know that, despite the challenges, we achieved it. I remember riding in the truck with my wife, as she wanted to see the finished installation of three ship loaders in Louisiana, and as we rounded the curve and they came into sight, all she could say was “wow”.

I appreciate that Bruks Siwertell trusts me to make decisions on the fly, and after 13 years, I still look forward to the next job. I know that we, as a company, have grown, and are still growing, filling positions with the right people.

Looking for new hires is a sign of growth, because once you are part of the family, almost no one ever leaves. I have had several opportunities to move up in the company, but I always choose to keep doing what I was hired to do, because it makes me happy.

bruks-siwertell.com

ABOUT BRUKS SIWERTELL

Bruks Siwertell is a market-leading supplier of dry bulk handling and wood processing systems. With thousands of installations worldwide, our machines handle your raw materials from forests, fields, quarries and mines, maintaining critical supply lines for manufacturers, mills, power plants and ports.

We design, produce and deliver systems for ship loading, ship unloading, conveying, storing, stacking and reclaiming dry bulk materials, alongside equipment for chipping, screening, milling and processing wood for the bioenergy, biofuel, board, sawmill, pulp and paper industries.

We are global and local. You will find our main offices in the USA, Sweden, Germany, China, the Philippines and Taiwan, supported by a dedicated network of hundreds of representatives and dealers worldwide.

An extensive global service team offers support to all Bruks Siwertell customers whenever and wherever it is needed.

SHIP UNLOADING · SHIP LOADING · TRUCK UNLOADING STORAGE & RECLAIMING · CHIPPING · GRINDING & MILLING CONVEYING · SCREENING · WOOD RESIDUE PROCESSING