At the coal face equipment to handle and store coal

B&W’s SAMSON coal intake from railcars offers inherent dust control benefits

The B&W SAMSONTM surface feeder goes underground to
receive coal from hopper bottom rail trucks, providing an
economical alternative to traditional deep pits
and tapered hopper designs with conventional
feeder solutions.
B&W Mechanical Handling Ltd., part of the
internationally renowned Aumund Group, has
successfully applied its SAMSONTM feeder
principle for the handling of various types of
coal. For this cement plant the kiln firing coal
is imported by rail and discharged from hopper
bottom wagons direct to a SAMSONTM 800
Series under-rail feeder providing 80 tonnes of
buffer holding capacity and a controlled rate
discharge at 500 tonnes per hour to the coal
storage facility.
This is a new application for the SAMSONTM
design applying the wide apron-belt technology
originally developed for truck discharge. As illustrated above, the
SAMSONTM may be installed in a shallow pit requiring an
excavation depth of only 3.5 metres. This significantly reduces
the associated civil works costs making the whole installation
more economical. Also, the raised discharge design permits a
simplified transfer to the ongoing conveyor system reducing the need
for additional pit depth.
In any materials handling installation dust is generated when
the bulk flow is allowed to free fall in
an uncontrolled manner thus permitting the dust within the
material to separate into free particles which may be easily wind
blown or carried by displaced air into the surrounding area causing fugitive
dust pollution.
This is particularly true of tapered hoppers where the
material falls into the narrowest part of the hopper at the
greatest velocity causing the displaced air to be ejected at a
correspondingly high speed generally carrying
with it dust particles creating pollution.
Since the SAMSONTM body is wider than the
railcar, the material flows outward from the
hopper gates with the minimum of free fall thus
minimizing particulate separation.
Since the free fall distance is minimized the
material velocity is similarly minimized therefore
further reducing particulate separation.
As the material flows outward and at
reduced velocity the velocity of the displaced air
is also significantly reduced
By reducing the material particulate
separation and reducing the velocity of both the
material free fall and displaced air the overall
effect is to reduce dust creation.
By reducing dust creating at source in this manner in many
applications dust control measures are unnecessary or at least
significantly reduced.
By eliminating or reducing the size of dust control equipment
both the project cost and the ongoing operating cost is reduced.
As a further advantage the wide
belt SAMSONTM design is such that the
stored material depth is generally less
than the belt width and therefore the
system cannot bridge or block
regardless of the material flow
characteristics.
For this reason the SAMSONTM is
an ideal solution for handling wet
industrial coals which would normally
require a steep hopper with valley
angles of 70° and a consequent
increased pit depth, typically 12 to 14 metres, to minimize the

risk of bridging and blockage.

SGS Minerals Services: expertise for coal handling and sampling

SGS is a world-leading inspection, verification, testing and
certification company. Recognized as a global benchmark for
quality and integrity, it employs over 56,000 people and operates
a network of more than 1,000 offices and laboratories around
the world.
SGS Minerals Services provides support to clients in the
minerals sector both as a strategic partner and technical advisor.
Through its global network of operations and laboratories, it
delivers a broad spectrum of independent services including coal
and coke, precious and base metals, steel and steelmaking raw
materials, solid biomass, fertilizers, cement, industrial minerals
and diamonds.
During the past 20 years, the development of larger
materials-handling facilities and the increase in the emphasis
placed on accurate and precise sampling has led to a parallel
growth in the application of mechanical sampling. Mechanical
sampling is the only safe and reliable means of sampling the highspeed,
large-capacity conveyor belts that are common at most
ports throughout the world. Most bulk commodities are
sampled either at loading or discharging of vessels at ports. In
some cases, sampling may be carried out at both locations. The

sampling is done for the purpose of commercial transactions.

SAMPLING EQUIPMENT
SGS has designed and supplied sampling equipment for
mechanical sampling systems around the world for the last 30
years. SGS’s equipment is designed to collect representative
samples with equipment that operates very reliably and meet all

international standards requirements. Because SGS also

operates sampling systems, SGS’s equipment designs continue to
evolve and are based on providing the best value in performance
and cost. SGS supplies sampling equipment for the sampling of
all bulk materials which is designed to meet unique material

characteristics.

MECHANICAL SAMPLING SYSTEMS
Sampling is undertaken to collect a representative of the bulk
cargo. This sample is then prepared for either physical testing or
laboratory analysis. The types of tests or analysis that are
performed are dependent on what characteristics are required
to be measured.
Because many decisions are based on sampling results,
sampling is a key operational activity. Despite this, it is often
neglected and one of the least understood operations in the
mining and processing industries. Sampling is often done by
poorly trained personnel with little real understanding of what
they are doing. SGS maintains highly skill inspectors to provide
the best possible manual sampling when required, however
mechanical sampling should be preferred.
SGS’s engineers are at the forefront of mechanical sampling
design and has the operating experience and knowledge needed
to assure that its customers’ systems meet ASTM and ISO
standards, that they are consistently reliable, unbiased and are
easy to access and maintain.
SGS sampling equipment is manufactured and tested under
strict control by experienced SGS engineers. SGS also designs
and lays out the entire sampling system according to the unique
site and material requirements. SGS can also manage the
construction and commissioning of new mechanical sampling
systems. Its mechanical sampling system solutions can involve:

primary samplers;
crushers;
belt feeders;
secondary/tertiary samplers;
sample collectors; and
control systems.

The advantages of an SGS mechanical sampling system include:

eliminating the risk of human error;
generating representative, unbiased samples;
assurance of consistent operation;
time and cost savings resulting from crushing and secondary sampling on line;
they are designed for high availability and to simplify maintenance and inspections of the systems;
they allow maintenance of sample integrity — no sample loss or contamination; and
SGS will guarantee its systems will be non-biased when tested for bias under ASTM D6518.

SGS can perform technical audits, bias testing and provide ongoing
operations and maintenance services to ensure its
customers get the best possible sampling performance from

their sampling systems.

MECHANICAL AUGER SAMPLING
Collecting representative samples of coal from trucks or railcars
can be difficult as manual sampling only has access to the surface
of the coal. It is still vital to collect representative samples. For
operating sites where the preferred full stream mechanical
sampling systems are not available, trucks or railcars can be
sampled using a mechanical auger.
Auger samplers allow the vertical sample collection of coal
through the full depth of the coal. This provides a good method
for sampling coal in trucks and wagons. SGS was the first
supplier of mobile auger sampling systems in the world. SGS
supplies and operates truck mounted, rail-mounted and

stationary augers designed to meet client requirements.

MECHANICAL SAMPLING AT PORTS AND TERMINALS
Because sampling is not the core business of port operators,
mechanical sampling systems installed at ports can be the subject
of neglect resulting in unreliable operation and inaccurate
sampling. SGS can operate and maintain mechanical sampling
systems on behalf of clients. SGS’s experience ensures that
sampling is carried out in compliance with relevant standards
Technical audits and bias tests are important services
provided by SGS to ensure that existing mechanical
sampling systems operate both reliably and
accurately. Due to the significant commercial
value associated with sampling at ports, it is
essential that both the buyer and seller of bulk
commodities have confidence in the analytical
test results of samples taken during loading and
discharge of the vessel.
SGS strives to provide added value to all mining
operations, from the early exploration stages to
ports and terminals, mine closure and the end user.
SGS has specific websites relating to some of the

various services it offers within the mining industry.

ThyssenKrupp Fördertechnik develops new type of barge unloader

At the end of 2007 ThyssenKrupp Fördertechnik, Business Unit
Materials Handling, St. Ingbert-Rohrbach (TKF) won the order to
design and deliver a new type of barge unloader for Indonesia’s
Bontang Coal Terminal (Upgrade Stage 2).
The continuous barge unloader, or CBU, will be used to
handle coal. It is designed to unload barges ranging in size from
7,000dwt to 10,000dwt. Nominal unloading capacity when
handling coal will be 4,100tph (tonnes per hour), with the CBU
operating for a continuous period of 18 hours per day, with an
annual period of 330 days.
The 620-tonne machine consists mainly of the portal

structure with the travel gear and the travel trolley where the

movable boom with the integrated double strand bucket
elevator is mounted. The lifting and lowering of this group will
be carried out by a rope winch system on top of the travel
trolley. This barge unloader is equipped with hydraulic and
electric components, similar to the existing successful TKF ship
unloaders. Repair and maintenance installations, as well as
lubrication and dust suppression systems, are integrated. Safety
and protection equipment are, of course, also installed.
The unloading operations are controlled from the operator’s
cabin or could be done by remote control from the quayside.
Digging depth, machine speed and traversing operations are
controlled automatically to ensure the required throughput is
achieved. The CBU also has a semi-automatic mode to enable
easy manual position and operation.
While reclaiming in the longitudinal direction of the barge,
the bucket elevators can traverse from the one side of the
barge’s hold to the other. The material reclaimed by the bucket
elevator passes the portal belt conveyor and the roller table via
chute system and reaches the quayside belt conveyor for
onward transport.
To unload residual material, a slewing crane is mounted so
that a front loader can be lowered into the barge’s hold to feed
the bucket elevator by pushing together the material from the
barge’s bottom and the corners.
ThyssenKrupp Fördertechnik’s previous references for
continuous unloaders and its excellent track record were
deciding factors in the contract being awarded to TKF. This
continuous barge unloader will be put into operation in the first
half of this year and is another first for TKF in Indonesia,
although TKF has already supplied more than 50 continuous ship
unloaders, working on comparable unloading principle of

continuous bucket elevator worldwide.

Gottwald cranes are increasingly popular in the coal handling sector

Difficult market conditions have dictated that having the right equipment
for handling coal is more important than ever.
Harbour cranes from Germany’s Gottwald Port Technology GmbH
(Gottwald) are becoming increasingly popular for the handling of bulk
material such as coal.
Gottwald, a subsidiary of Demag Cranes AG, has a wide range that
encompasses mobile harbour cranes, portal harbour cranes and floating
cranes. Its four-rope grab versions for professional bulk handling account for a
significant portion of the total number of cranes sold annually.
To date, Gottwald has sold more than 230 four-rope grab cranes
worldwide, a significant proportion of which are aimed at coal
handling. Many of its two-rope cranes are also devoted to bulk

handling.

CUSTOMER CHOICE
Customers cite factors such as low specific investment costs,
lower investments in quay facilities due to reduced weight and
space requirements, ease of maintenance, short delivery leadtimes,
dependable supply of spare parts, high handling rates of up
to 1,800tph* (tonnes per hour) and the electric drive concept as
reasons for choosing Gottwald harbour cranes. Importantly,
Gottwald is also able to configure the cranes into any one of
several arrangements.
Depending on the products to be handled (either just coal or
a mixture of goods) and the infrastructure, terminal operators
can choose between mobile harbour, portal harbour and floating
cranes. All three are based on proven mobile harbour crane
technology from the slew ring upwards. They can be supplied in
a wide range of sizes and with a broad spectrum of different
features and lifting gear to cover a wide range of vessel sizes (up
to Capesize), cargo types and individual requirements. A high

crane classification ensures a long service life.

Floating cranes
Floating cranes are particularly useful when there is a lack of
suitable infrastructure to handle loading/unloading operations.
Not every terminal has an infrastructure for landside bulk
handling. One example is on the Mississippi, USA, where
Gottwald’s reference list for floating cranes has grown at a
steady pace in recent years. A recent project is for two
Generation 5, Model 6, G HPK 6400 B floating cranes, ordered
in quick succession by Associated Terminals LLC (AT), one of the
largest stevedoring and terminal management firms in the Gulf
South, Louisiana.
The cranes are scheduled to enter service this month and
will be used for transhipping a variety of cargo including coal
from large ocean-going vessels to smaller river barges on the
Mississippi. They will bring to four the total number of floating
cranes ordered by AT from Gottwald since 2006, joining another
G HPK 6400 B and an HPK 330 EG, one of Gottwald's
Generation 4 machines. The G HPK 6400 B cranes are the most
powerful in AT’s fleet and among the most powerful on the
Mississippi River.
The 1,000tph* four-rope grab cranes for professional, heavyduty
bulk handling each have a grab capacity on the ropes of 50
tonnes up to a radius of 31m. They can be used alongside ships
of all sizes. The cranes will be mounted on a pedestal supplied
by Gottwald and integrated in tailor-made barge constructions.
Customers order the barge they need, whether new or
refurbished, from their own sources.
Floating cranes, which make additional berths unnecessary
and neatly navigate avoid the problem of approvals procedures,
have become an important part of Gottwald’s portfolio. With
the new AT order, the number of this crane type in use on the
Mississippi amounts to ten and the total number of floating
cranes sold since the launch in 2004 has increased to 17. They
are deployed worldwide in mid-stream operation in ports and
sheltered waters, on rivers and in coastal waters and even on
the open sea; for ship-to-ship as well as ship-to-shore handling;

for import and export related operations.

Portal harbour cranes for complex supply chains
Many coal terminals have equipment such as hoppers and
conveyor belts, requiring individually tailored solutions and a high
degree of specialization. Gottwald’s portal harbour cranes are
ideal for this scenario, as they are designed for use on narrow

and special-purpose quays. The crane portals are designed to

enable road vehicles, rail trucks and conveyor belts to be used
unhindered beneath or beside the portals. Typical track gauges
are 10m to 20m and clear heights from 4m to 8m. The number
of wheels fitted depends on the prescribed rail and quay loadings
— usually four, six or eight wheels per corner of the portal.
One recent project is notable as it is for the very first portal
harbour cranes for India. The contract is for two Model 8,
G HSK 8332 B machines, ordered by Adani Petronet (Dahej)
Port Pvt Ltd. (APPPL), a joint venture between Petronet LNG Ltd
and Mundra Port & Special Economic Zone Ltd, for handling bulk
materials, including coal, in the new multi-purpose terminal for
solid cargo in Dahej, on the west coast of India. The equipment
will start commercial operation in the port, which will handle
about 15mt (million tonnes) per year, at the end of this year.
Both 1,800tph* four-rope grab cranes have 63-tonne grab
curves and maximum radii of 50m and are suitable for use
alongside vessels up to Capesize. The portals are designed with
a track gauge of 13m and a clear height of 6m.
Many bulk handling terminal operators worldwide, including
highly-specialized bulk terminals with high handling capacities and
complex handling systems, have reported high levels of
satisfaction with Gottwald’s portal harbour cranes.
Kinder Morgan, the largest independent dry bulk material
handler in the US, is a customer of Gottwald. When it was
working on the expansion of one of its terminals on the East
Coast, mainly handling coal, a new finger pier with an
incorporated conveyor belt system, was built. To equip this pier,
it chose two 1,800tph* Model 8, G HSK 8216 B portal harbour
cranes. In this way, a customer-orientated solution was
seamlessly integrated in the complex logistics chain within a very
short time. The investment in these two portal harbour cranes
and quay infrastructure shows clearly the comparatively low

total investment costs as opposed to purpose-built machinery.

Mobility and flexibility
Gottwald’s mobile harbour cranes are ideal for terminals that
require maximum mobility and flexibility.
This crane type is popular with many
small and medium-sized terminals. Bigger
and specialized ports also rely on mobile
harbour cranes solely or to support
other equipment.
At Gangavaram Port, India, for
example, two Model 6, G HMK 6407 B
cranes handle, among other things, coal
and bulky project cargoes. The cranes
have 50-tonne grab curves and with
maximum hoisting speeds of 110m/min,
they achieve excellent rates in coal
handling. In November 2008, for
example, the two cranes together
unloaded 42,000 tonnes of coal from a
Panamax vessel on a single day. The
entire ship (with a capacity of 72,000

tonnes) was unloaded in only 58 hours.

Scantech’s online analyzers offer high levels of accuracy

On-line analysis of coal on a conveyor belt is widely used to
monitor and control coal quality, from coal face to shipment and
final use. On-line analysis allows more efficient use of the
resource, more effective process control and more cost effective
methods of mining, processing and burning of coal. Such
analyzers should be viewed not simply as an alternative to
laboratory analysis. The most beneficial on-line analyzer
installations are generally those where the user has realized the
advantages that real time analysis can bring to their process.
The key issue now is not whether the analyzers measure the
coal accurately, as this has been established in numerous trials
over many years. Instead, mines, coal handling facilities, power
stations and smelters are investigating the best ways to utilize
each analyzer’s results.
The plant infrastructure must be in place so that operations
can respond to real-time coal quality information. Ideally, this
response should be automated and not require the operator:

to first notice that a particular result is off target,
secondly, to make the appropriate decision; and
thirdly, to correctly implement that decision.

Coal is presented to the analysis system in real time and, in
some cases, results are provided within seconds of the coal
passing the analyzer. Thus, it is best if the plant automates the
coal delivery, blending, sorting or any other process control.
To maintain each analyzer, Scantech has developed an
extensive service network. The analyzers are inherently very
reliable. For example, solid state air conditioners provide no
problems with high maintenance air filters and solid state hard
drives are used in onboard PCs so that extreme vibration does
not cause premature hard drive failure. Via connection to the
internet, there is very fast and reliable remote access to each
analyzer. This permits diagnosis and rectification of most
problems without the need for an engineer to go to site. If a
site visit is required though, a worldwide group of service agents
and Scantech’s own service engineers are available for remote
and rapid support.
There continues to be significant developments of these
measurement technologies. For example, on conveyor belt
elemental analyzers, known as the COALSCAN 9500X, are now
available to analyze the entire stream, avoiding not only the
operating and capital costs of sampling, but also the sensitivity of
older technologies to variation in ash mineralogy. This
technology is no longer sensitive to variations in bed depth. As
well as measuring ash, this technology measures the ash oxides
and many other parameters useful for efficient plant control.
There have been four generations of this analyzer, with the latest
model requiring minimal maintenance, has very low levels of
external radiation and drift-free analysis.
In order to obtain accurate analyses, the analyzer must ‘see’
as much of the process stream as possible. This requires the use
of radiation that will penetrate deeply into the coal. In practice
this means electromagnetic fields for moisture determination
and gamma rays and neutron radiation for ash and elemental
analysis. These are the techniques used by Scantech analyzers.
For the best accuracy, measurement techniques need to be
penetrating, rather than simple surface or backscattering

methods that see a less representative sample.

Reclaiming coal: the mobile hopper solution

Telestack Limited continues to excel in providing innovative
mobile coal handling solutions to its worldwide customer base.
Telestack mobile materials handling systems are built to last,
combining strength with the highestquality components

available on the market. The success derives from achieving sustainable

value for the client; using mobile bulk handling technology to enhance

operational efficiency, minimize environmental impact and
maximize flexibility.
Telestack Limited has enjoyed great success when installing
coal handling facilities throughout the globe. Most notably to
date has been the contract for the design and manufacture of a
wheeled mobile reclaim hopper which will feed onto a stacker/
reclaimer conveyor belt. Currently, the customer has three lines
in the stockyard consisting of 2 x stacker/reclaimers and 1 x
stacker only. However, when unloading vessels with the 2 x
unloading cranes onto two of the lines, this only allows for one
other for either feeding the local power plant or loading trains
for inland transportation. This presents an operational
‘bottleneck’ and reduces the operational capabilities and
flexibility of the operation. The mobile reclaim hopper will be
fed via 2 x front-end loading shovel (medium capacity). The
machine can be placed in the downstream from any of the three
lines even if the stacker/reclaimer or stacker is operating. This
greatly increases operational flexibility and allows for 1 x line to

be redundant in case of routine maintenance.

CUSTOMIZED DESIGN
The wheeled mobile (optional crawler tracked mounted — see
picture below) reclaim hopper offers maximum flexibility for the
operator, it includes a wheeled bogie unit complete with toe
hitch for easy site movement via a loading shovel. The 18m3
hopper is fed from 2 x front-end loading shovels from both sides
and rear at 1,000tph. Also there is a custom upgrade of
polyurethane low-friction liners on the material transfer points
(hopper, transfer feed-boot and chute) to allow the material to
flow easily without potential blockages and bridging. The hopper
also includes a 200mm aperture grid which excludes any foreign
material from mixing with the coal. As the reclaim hopper is
directly feeding the reclaiming belt, the incline conveyor on the
Telestack unit has luffing capabilities (raise/lower) from 12–20°,
which offers the customer the flexibility to vary the discharge
height, depending on ground levels and the height of the
reclaiming belt at the certain points. The
unit also includes a manual trimming chute
which allows the customer to direct the
material to reduce segregation/degradation
and control the flow of material onto the
belt in the same direction as the stacker/
reclaimer.
This is further enhanced with the design and
manufacture of a mobile feed-boot which
will fit over the current reclaiming belt to
direct the material into the centre of the
belt and again reduce the dust emissions at
this transfer point. The unit will also include
a 100Kva gen-set for all functions to make
the unit a complete independent unit, with
optional lights to ensure 24-hour operation.
These customized solutions/extras
highlight Telestack’s aim to provide for the
specific needs of each application to ensure
the equipment is efficient and reliable during

these types of operations.

Sandwell’s coal projects continue apace despite economic downturn

Sandwell is part of the Ausenco Group of
Companies, a diversified company providing
engineering, procurement and construction
management services internationally for all
sizes of projects. It works in the bulk
handling, marine, transportation, and
industrial sectors.
Sandwell has a lengthy history and
respected name in the coal industry. Today,
its range of clients includes: smaller mines
and local export terminals close to its bulk
terminals design centre in Vancouver,
Canada; large international terminals
including Carbones del Cerrejón and
Prodeco in Colombia; and the larger global
mining companies including BHP Billiton, Rio
Tinto, Vale and Xstrata. Its international
presence and adaptable work practices
allow it to efficiently serve clients and
projects of all sizes.
Sandwell provides primarily engineering
design, procurement, and construction
services, but in the course of its normal
business it has developed some technologies
of use in the coal industry. One ‘traditional’
piece of equipment Sandwell can provide is the Banana SpoutTM.
The key benefit of this spout is to greatly increase the hold
coverage of a shiploader while limiting product degradation, dust
generation, and potential spout blockages.
A less traditional product is Sandwell’s proprietary
‘Transportation Logistics Simulator’ software. Sandwell has been
using simulation modelling to help design bulk terminals for
more than 30 years and is a world leader in this specialty.
Despite the economic downturn in 2009, Sandwell’s Simulation
Group has expanded to 22 professionals worldwide, including
staff in Australia, Brazil and South Africa.
With the advent of ever more powerful computers, Sandwell
has expanded its simulation models to encompass the entire
supply chain, from mine to port. In addition to the bulk
terminal, these models typically include a complex rail network,
numerous mines, and the ship entrance channel to the terminal.
When ship congestion is a concern, the model can include the
other marine terminals in the port and the ship traffic they
generate. This tool has been used
successfully at all project development
phases, from master planning through to
capacity improvement studies for existing
operations. Some examples of supply
chain models completed in the last year
are:

Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and Goonyella Coal Chain, Queensland, Australia;
Surat Basin Mines and Port of Gladstone, Queensland, Australia;
Cerrejon Coal, Colombia; and
Puerto Nuevo, Colombia.

Sandwell’s material handling design expertise includes conveyor design for
standard terminal conveyors in addition to high capacity, long-distance conveying
through its South African office. Also of interest to coal operations is Sandwell’s
experience in dust control, shiploading, marine structures, and coastal engineering.
The input from the company’s coastal group is very important for site selection
of new port terminals. With challenging terminal sites and the high capital costs inherent in marine
structures, Sandwell’s clients appreciate the experience and
creative thinking Sandwell brings to optimize these designs and
make the most of these major capital investments. Sandwell
continues to incorporate the latest advances in structural
elements in our designs, such as composite beams, to reduce
overall system costs.
Even through the slowdown in the commodities markets,
Sandwell has continued to stay active in the coal industry with
several studies and design projects. Recent studies include a
concept study for a proposed coal mine in Queensland Australia,
a concept study for a new coal terminal at Port Alma,
Queensland, a feasibility study for a proposed new coal project
in British Columbia, Canada, and many other studies that remain
confidential at this stage.
Sandwell’s largest current coal project is the Puerto Nuevo
coal export terminal for Prodecto. Prodeco consists of two
open pit coal mining operations (the Calenturitas and La Jagua
complexes), export port facilities at Puerto
Zuñiga and shared ownership in a railway.
Prodeco currently produces 14mtpa of export
thermal coal predominantly for the European
and United States power generation markets.
Sandwell is currently preparing engineering for
early EPCM (engineering, procurement and
construction management) works and detailed
design as part of the first phase development
in Ciénaga, Colombia. The multi-user terminal
development, a significant part of the US$1
billion Prodeco coal project development, will
provide a key export gateway for Colombia’s
third-largest producer of export coal.
Sandwell has worked extensively with
Cerrejon in Colombia for the last decade,
most recently as the EPCM contractor

selected for its 40mtpa expansion project.

Sandvik to supply seven Bolter Miners to Chinese Shendong coal operation

Sandvik Mining and Construction has received a major order
from Chinese Shenhua Energy Company Limited’s Shendong coal
production centre.
According to the contract, a total of seven low-profile
Sandvik Bolter Miners MB670 will be supplied during 2010, with
delivery commencing in May 2010.
The Sandvik MB670 Bolter Miner is equipped to
simultaneously cut a rectangular shaped roadway and install roof
and rib bolts. The MB670 Bolter Miner can be operated at top
speeds in modern roadway development layouts thanks to its
ability to cut and install roof support in simultaneous operations.
Coal mines in China are among the world leaders in achieving
top performances. Advance rates of 50 metres per day using a
Sandvik Bolter Miner are commonly reached.
This order was secured due to the excellent performance
Sandvik to supply seven Bolter Miners to Chinese Shendong coal operation
demonstrated by Sandvik Mining and Construction’s products
worldwide as well as the company’s efforts to continuously
increase health and safety standards for machine operators.
Shendong Coal Branch is a major coal-production company
owned by China Shenhua Energy Company Limited and is
responsible for the development and construction of the
Shenfu Dongsheng Mining Area in the border zones of the
southern part of Inner Mongolia and the north of the Shaanxi
province, as well as the Baode Coal Mine in the Shanxi
province of China.
Sandvik Mining and Construction is a business area within the
Sandvik Group and a leading global supplier of equipment,
cemented-carbide tools, service and technical solutions for the
excavation and sizing of rock and minerals in the mining and

construction industries.

Rulli Rulmeca supplies components for ‘Zeus’ transshipper

Italian company Rulli Rulmeca S.p.A. has supplied rollers and components to the Bedeschi company for use in a coal
transshipment system to be installed on the offshore floating terminal (OFT) Zeus.
In the summer of 2008, Scorpio Logistics Pvt, a Singapore-based company, awarded a contract to Italian company Bedeschi, to supply the coal handling transshipment system to be installed on the Zeus OFT, which will operate in Indonesia and the Philippines.
Three hoppers receive coal and the automatic weighing and dosing system will blend different type of coals according to a set point from the control room.
Great attention has been paid also to all transfer points to minimize dust.
The main shiploader is able to transfer coal at 2,000tph (tonnes per hour) and has a shuttle conveyor and orientable boom end stainless steel chute to perfectly load the materials into Panamax vessels.
The Rulmeca products supplied to Bedeschi for these plants are the following:

for belt width 2,000mm: PSV4 and PSV7 rollers, pulleys CUF series with incorporated bearings and USC-USF series with clamping units and transoms for heavy upper troughing sets; and
for belt width 1,600mm: PSV3 rollers, pulleys CUF series with incorporated bearings and USC-USF series with clamping units, transoms and supports brackets for heavy upper troughing sets.

Figee Crane Services, specialist for handling coal, iron ore and other commodities

Figee Crane Services B.V. has gained extensive
experience and a solid reputation as a reliable and
qualified supplier of harbour cranes, which are
used to handle a wide range of commodities,
including coal. Over the years Figee Crane
Services has specialized in rail-mounted and
floating cranes and is well-known globally as a

manufacturer of this type of equipment.

DELIVERY PROGRAMME NEW BUILD CRANES

floating cranes, including the unique ‘Lemniscate’ floating crane;
single- and double-boom cranes for bulkhandling and general cargo;
gantry grab cranes; and
ship-to-shore container gantry crane — rail-mounted gantry cranes.

LEMNISCATE
Figee Crane Services is a leader in the design and manufacturing
of advanced floating grab cranes. Its very successful range of
Lemniscate floating grab cranes is convincing proof of this
reputation. Both robust and reliable, Figee Lemniscate cranes
mounted on pontoons provide fast, independent operations,
achieving transhipment capacities of up to 25,000 tonnes/day.
They enable loading and unloading on-stream as well as at sea.
The cranes can handle both ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore
operations swiftly and efficiently. Flexibility, reliability and
progressive performance under all circumstances are all features

of Figee Crane Services.

SINGLE-BOOM CRANE
Port throughput is as varied as the world’s trades and cultures.
But wherever cargo is being handled, speed, efficiency and
reliability are essential. Figee Crane Services has ensured that its
multi-purpose single-boom type crane is the best buy in its
range. Multi-purpose terminals will benefit most from this
crane, but even if used for just hook, spreader or grab duty, Figee
single-boom cranes provide excellent results.
Capacities range from 10 to 1,000 tonnes with outreaches
from 20 to 50 metres and more. Rail span and wheel

configuration will be adapted to existing quay facilities.

DOUBLE-BOOM CRANE
Figee double-boom cranes provide excellent results with grab
operations. Grab handling capacities range from 15 to 50 tonnes
at outreaches from 25 to 55 metres and more. The doubleboom
configuration reduces the pendulum length, resulting in
optimum control of the load. The double boom
crane also allows for an excellent position of the
driver’s cabin and integrated hopper. The result
is a high unloading capacity, which makes this
type of crane excellent for grab duties. Of
course, Figee Crane Service cranes come with
all of today’s modern technology, such as antisway,
semi automatic steering, full AC frequency
control, remote access, advanced driver cabin,
and so forth. This crane will pay itself, in no time

at all.

GANTRY GRAB CRANE
Each transshipment situation places its own
demands on man and material. This is why each Figee gantry
grab crane is tuned to the specific requirements of the end user.
A complete rail-mounted transshipment system for iron ore,
including a ship-unloader and gantry crane with two independent
trolleys is one of the possibilities.
Also a 360° slewing gantry crane with the capability of
unloading on both sides of the jetty is included in Figee’s product
range. Customers looking for efficiency, short cycle times, high
transshipment capacity, safety, ergonomics and durability, will find
that a Figee Crane Services gantry grab crane satisfies all these

requirements.

THE FIGEE CRANE AVAILABILITY CONCEPT
Figee aims for optimum availability and trouble-free operation of
its cranes. To achieve this, the Figee Crane Availability Concept
(FCAC) focuses on uptime, logistics efficiency, knowledge and
cost control. Only optimum crane performance will give the
required competitive advantage in today’s fast-changing markets.
Even the smallest deviation can have an enormous impact on the
company’s profitability.
In case of emergency, the FCAC connects customers directly
to the crane technology centre via a Remote Access Control
Centre, offering instant support and remote diagnostics.
This facility will provide cost-saving benefits like reduced
downtime, absence of travel and avoidance of unproductive
engineering hours. With a worldwide network, Figee is able to
offer its customers round-the-clock service. Figee’s call centre
offers a rapid response.
The concept allows customers to focus on their core
business. In the meantime, they are assured of continuous
availability of the equipment at predictable low costs.
In conclusion Figee Crane Services is committed to supplying
the best possible service to its customers. Its cranes will have
100% availability in combination with a long lifetime. Figee
intends to be its customers’ lifetime partner for the crane

operation.

THE GROUP
Figee Crane Services B.V. is a member of the Kenz Figee Group.
Today, Kenz Figee B.V. is a crane-building quality centre, serving
the global market.
The four individual professional subsidiaries, all with their
own characteristics, are specialists in the crane industry with
activities worldwide for the Oil & Gas and Harbour industry.
They are: Figee Crane Services B.V.; Kenz Cranes B.V.; Kenz

Offshore Services B.V.; and Dutch Crane Engineering B.V.

Hitachi helps coal make a comeback in Wales

The growing global demand for energy has led to a reversal of
fortunes for the Welsh coal industry. According to Celtic
Energy, a leading mining company based in south Wales, the fuel is
being sold as fast as it can be produced. Director Huw Richards
says, “We’ve never seen such a need for coal. The demand is very
high.”
Celtic Energy produces just over one million tonnes of coal
per year from its three sites.
Approximately half of this is transported to Aberthaw power
station in Wales, and the remainder is used for domestic
and industrial markets in the UK and Europe.
To achieve its production targets, Celtic Energy has invested
in a new Hitachi EX1900-6 excavator for its East Pit surface
mine. Supplied by Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe)
NV (HCME), the EX1900-6 is the first of its kind in the UK and is
powered by a Cummins QSK38 38-litre engine producing 775kW
(750hp) — the first Tier II offhighway engine to be used for this
application in the country. HCME area manager for Heavy & Mining
Equipment Malcolm Edwards says, “The Cummins engine is durable,
efficient and is a tier above what we need to comply with current
European emission regulations.”
Celtic Energy ordered the Hitachi EX1900-6 following the
success of its predecessor, an EX1900-5, which is in operation at
the company’s Selar surface mine.
“We chose the Hitachi EX1900 models because of their size, this
particular application and the site geology. The 12m³ bucket is
one of the main advantages because it is able to load the 100-
tonne rigid dump trucks in five passes. The EX1900 combined
with the 12m³ bucket is ideal for the complex geology,
characterized by steeply dipping seams and small partings
between the seams,” says Richards. “Swing, loading and travel
speeds are also important factors. The machines need to be
fast.”
The new EX1900-6 will work 80 hours per week and make a
significant contribution at East Pit, helping to achieve its
excavation and coal production targets. To meet these
expectations, product support and routine maintenance provided
by the Swansea depot of HM Plant, the official UK Hitachi dealer,
are crucial. Equally important are the routine engine inspections
provided by the Cardiff branch of Cummins UK.
Hitachi helps coal make a comeback in Wales
“When we bought the first machine,” says Richards, “there
was a fair commitment from HM Plant to support it. They have
invested in people with expertise to be around it. Part of our
decision to buy the second machine was returning that
compliment to HM Plant.”
Another factor in Celtic Energy’s investment is the global
residual value of Hitachi machinery. “We think Hitachi is a
reputable name in large mining equipment, which is important,”
explains Richards.
Further investment by Celtic Energy in Hitachi mining
excavators depends on a public inquiry decision on an extension
to its Margam surface mine later this year. Should the outcome
be favourable for Celtic Energy, it will no doubt strengthen the
successful partnership it has developed with Hitachi, supported

by HM Plant and Cummins.

Ship unloaders from Sumitomo: ideal for handling coal

Sumitomo Heavy Industries Engineering & Services Co (SES)
specializes in the manufacture of cranes and material handling
machinery. The company’s equipment can be used to handle a
wide range of cargoes, including coal. SES is part of the
Sumitomo Heavy Industries Group, a major Japanese heavy
industry concern.
The company’s business covers the entire life-cycle of cranes
and material handling machinery, starting from R&D and going
through all the stages including engineering, manufacturing,
commissioning, maintenance and after-sales service.
One of SES’s main product lines is the ship-unloader. Within
this, it offers a full line-up, including grab bucket types,
continuous ship unloaders (CSUs — i.e. bucket elevator types),
vertical screw conveyors (VSC) and twin-belt unloaders (TBU).
SES has a particularly strong presence in the CSU market,
with its bucket elevator-type CSU. This CSU has demonstrated
high levels of efficiency in unloading coal as well as iron ore. This
success has greatly streamlined the unloading operations of its
customers. Due to SES’s strong presence in the market, it has
delivered many CSUs to power plants and steel mills; its first
CSU was delivered in 1978.
Special features of SES’s bucket elevator type CSU include:

it is environmentally friendly:

it has a totally enclosed material pathway that minimizes dust emission; and
it makes extensive use of inverter motors instead of hydraulic drives to minimize maintenance and risk of oil spillage.

it offers great efficiency in unloading:
it has an L-shaped digging head with catenary mode which maximizes reach into the deepest parts of the ship’s hold and greatly speeds up bottom clean-up, thus ensuring total unloading efficiency.
maintainability and ease of operation:
it has an overload protection system, preventive maintenance system and operating condition monitoring system, etc., all of which minimizes the burden of maintenance and maximizes availability and operability.

As a leading manufacturer of continuous ship unloaders for
coal, as well as other commodities, SES will continue its
dedication to product development and after-sales service to

meet the needs of its customers.

NM Heilig delivers new high-capacity shiploader to OBA Bulk

In January this year, NM Heilig BV completed a
brand new shiploader for the OBA Bulk
location in Amsterdam. This new coal handling
shiploader enables OBA to load ships over a
length of 180 metres and 25 metres wide and
with a draught of 6 metres. The shiploader
has been designed according to the FEM and
the NEN 2000 series standards for crane

building.

COMPLYING WITH QUALITATIVE AND
COMMERCIAL DEMANDS
The shiploader is constructed according to
the international regulations of crane
engineering, although this machine officially is
not a crane. By building it according to these
regulations, the machine meets all of OBA’s
requirements, as this shiploader has been
categorized as an M8 machine. In terms of
fatigue and stresses, the shiploader is
categorized in crane group 5. These
categorizations have been the input for the
Finite Element Model of this machine.
A great feature of this shiploader is the
new revolutionary design for pulleys. This
ensures 100% greasing, triple seal for dust and
dirt and it also fits the M8 standards. The
main improvements have been made in the
area of maintenance, possibilities for

dismantling and pollution prevention for the

bearings, resulting in a reduction of downtime for the customer.
N.M. Heilig B.V.’s products are known for their excellent
quality and all machines are tested thoroughly before delivery.
This model has been tested for several situations and external
factors like collisions with machines and wind speeds up to eight
on the Beaufort Scale (Bft) in operation and over 12Bft in
parked position. All tests achieved excellent results.
N.M. Heilig B.V. greatly values safety, therefore the machine
has been extensively studied in the engineering phase to create a
safe, easy maintainable, durable and perfectly operable machine.
All of the machine’s movements are frequently controlled in
order to create fluent movements. In this way, excessive wear of
moving parts is prevented. The highest standards have been
applied during manufacturing, as there is no room for error. This
means that all of N.M. Heilig B.V.’s materials and operators are
certified and therefore comply with the strict demands of the

customer.

A REAL HEAVY-WEIGHT MACHINE
The machine was built in ‘batches’, where large parts are preassembled
in the workshop. After that, it was transported to the
construction site to be fitted together with the other
components.
The 40x4.5-metre boom, with a weight of 70 tonnes, was
completely assembled by N.M. Heilig B.V. in Heerhugowaard.
The Factory Acceptance Test was carried out in this workshop.
The boom was transported in one piece to Amsterdam to be
loaded on a barge. There the boom was hoisted to the main
frame. The hoisting was performed by a 650-tonne and a 400-
tonne crane. These cranes were needed as a flight of 50 metres
with a weight of 35 tonnes had to be made to place the boom.
A new quay was built to accommodate this shiploader. This
was delivered in summer of 2009, at the same time the
fabrication of the shiploader was well on its way and erection on
site could start right away. The new quay was needed to
support the 250-tonne shiploader which will load ships with a

rate of 3,000tph (tonnes per hour).

OTHER N.M. HEILIG B.V. PROJECTS
Prior to this shiploader, N.M. Heilig B.V. built a brand new train
loading station, which is fed by a mobile hopper
through one of two 900-metre-long conveyors.
Through a system of movable conveyor heads, the
train loading station achieves a capacity of 3,000tph.
This new system loads trains so efficiently that the
capacity has increased from three trains in 24 hours to
six trains in 24 hours.
Following on from these projects, OBA has
ordered a total of 850 metres of new conveyors from
N.M. Heilig B.V. for the discharge of a new 60-tonne
bridge crane at a rate of 4,250tph. This doubles the
current discharge route from the quay to the
stockyard. With this investment OBA can
simultaneously unload two Capesize vessels at a rate
of 4,250tph.
With these projects N.M. Heilig B.V. proves that it
builds high-quality, innovative and cost-efficient
machines that satisfy all requirements, so the customer

can benefit the most from N.M. Heilig B.V.’s solutions.

Survey and analysis of coal with Indonesia’s Carsurin

Established in 1968, the private surveying
company and laboratory group Carsurin
is a leading company in Indonesia, and as
such is heavily involved in the analysis of
coal, among other commodities. In
addition to its eight branches and seven
laboratories, it has both the expertise
and local knowledge to ensure that all
coal and mineral survey jobs are
conducted with quality and integrity.
Carsurin is also the dedicated
laboratory services for Indonesia's
leading companies such as PT Kideco Jaya
Agung and Indominco/Banpu Group, PT
Jembayan Muarabara, etc.
Carsurin aims to be the eyes and ears
of its clients in Indonesia, protecting
them from any unprofessional practices.
It offers: professionalism and quality with
integrity; 24/7 availability; provision of
reliable and factual information; extensive
knowledge of Indonesian coal
suppliers/mines; fast response and a focus
on customer service; and on-time reporting and quick
turnaround time.
The range of services that it can provide in relation to mining
include:

geological survey for coal and minerals

This includes: general survey/reconnaissance; geological mapping
(semi details and details); geophysics survey; transportation route
survey; quality determination: laboratory testing/sample analysis;
quantity determination: resource/reserves quantity evaluation
and estimation (inferred, indicated, measured tonnages);
trenching/test pit/stratographic drilling/scout drilling/intensive
drilling; geophysical logging; topographic mapping; stripping ratio
determination; sounding, hydrology, bathymetric, oceanographic
survey for jetty construction; preparation of final exploration
report and recommendations for future work; due diligence;
feasibility study; mine plan and design; and environmental impact
analysis (AMDAL). It can also prepare JORC (Joint Ore
Reserves Committee) compliant reports. These reports can
help determine coal resources/reserves and quality. The JORC
Code of estimation and reporting of coal and mineral resources
and reserves is an internationally recognized standard for stock
exchange and public information documents, such as a results of
JORC-compliant exploration and evaluations program are
required also for banks and finance houses.

production/mining stage

This includes: coal preparation; composite blending system;
quality control services; onsite/dedicated laboratory services;
stockpile management; and collateral management.
shipment stage
This includes: pre-shipment inspection (PSI) at stockpile; loading
supervision; quantity and quality survey on barge; quantity and
quality survey on vessel; and discharging supervision.

laboratory analysis

Carsurin's laboratories are ISO/ILAC/KAN accredited. Not only
for coal, Carsurin can also provide mineral testing for various
commodities such as iron ore/sand, nickel, manganese, bauxite
and others. Carsurin is fully equipped by highly qualified lab
technicians and surveyors.
It offers a professional high-quality
service with integrity; quick turn-around
time; coal analysis within three working
days; and mineral analysis within five

working days.

LOCATIONS
Carsurin is strategically located in the
following locations: Cilegon, West Java;
Samarinda, East Kalimantan; Tanah
Merah, East Kalimantan; Bontang, East
Kalimantan; Banjarbaru, South
Kalimantan; and Kendari, Southeast

Sulawesi.

EXPORT VERIFICATION
Since 5 July 2008, Carsurin has been
appointed a licensed surveyor and is
qualified to issue Laporan Surveyor (LS)
certificates in accordance with the new
Indonesian Minister of Trade’s decree
No. 384/M-DAG/KEP/6/2008 dated 27
June 2008. This decree mandates that
certain mining products exported out of Indonesia must have an
LS prior to securing a Pemberitahuan Ekspor Barang (PEB),
effective 5 July 2008.
The LS Certificate issued by licensed surveyors must have
the Quantity & Quality (Q&Q) data reinstated from the
Certificates of Analysis (COA) and Certificates of Weight
(COW). The responsibility and accountability of LS licensed
surveyors is to verify that the Q&Q results are true and valid.
Therefore, if the Q&Q is not conducted by the licensed LS
surveyor then the LS surveyor must witness the Q&Q job.
Being one of the pioneers in the Indonesian coal industry,
Carsurin offers both Q&Q as well as LS Certification, a

consolidated job and one process flow.

STAYING COMPETITIVE IN THE MARKET
Carsurin believes strongly in the importance of building and
maintaining relationships with its clients to enable long-term
co-operation to benefit both sides. It also ensures that its work
is carried out in an ethical fashion. Laboratories are also closely
monitored to always comply with ISO standards and to perform
well with the helps of high-quality equipment and qualified
manpower. This helps Carsurin to build a brand image and to
improve its recognition from overseas.
Currently Carsurin is planning to expanding to the Sumatera
region in Indonesia to cater for the needs of its clients there and
to explore other potential business opportunities. The area
offers potentially large coal reserve and many companies are
involved in coal mining explorations. Two of Carsurin’s new
laboratories are expected to be completed by April this year.
Carsurin is developing its newest service in Clean
Development Mechanism for environmental projects in
Indonesia. Climate change and environmental issues have been a
hot topic in forums across the world, and this has helped to
persuade major corporations to manage waste they produce or
by minimizing their carbon emissions through the usage of a
more efficient energy-saving technology. Carsurin basically
provides consultation and experts to help its clients design an
environmentally-conscious mechanism in their daily operations.

Going through the coal handling process with Bedeschi

eThe first two steps in the coal handling process are raw
material preparation, and crushing. The selection of a primary
crushing system rather then a secondary type depends on the
type of material, hardness, humidity and abrasiveness.
Very hard coal and low moisture requires an impact machine,
gyratory crushers or jaw crushers. However, when dealing with
a high degree of moisture and sticky material, a double roller
crusher sizer is required, as this is the only type of machine
which can deal with sticky material, thanks to its rotors
geometric configuration and cleaning scrapers which prevent

clogging.

HOPPER AND APRON FEEDER
The best ‘feeder’ to the crusher is a hopper and an apron feeder,
continuously feeding the crusher. The hopper must be of a
suitable size for the flow of material discharged by the trucks
and it advisable to grant a buffer suitable to contain one or two
trucks of material. With modern dump trucks, it is useful to
have a hopper of 100–150m3. The hopper shape must be
suitable for the correct material downflow, especially in the case
of moisture sticky material and of material that may freeze: the
wrong sizing or shape can adversely affect the flow of the

material and cause stoppages.

GENERAL LAYOUT
The selection of a fixed, mobile or semimobile
crushing unit is based on the position
of the crushing unit, on the layout of the plant
and whether its positioning will be the same
or it will change during its life-time. There
can be therefore different configurations:
cement hopper, lined with steel sheet; steel
hopper of various dimensions; fixed crushing
units; semi-mobile crushing units, assembled
on skids; surface feeding units, which allow
the reduction of the hopper volume.
Once coal has been reduced to the
appropriate size, a storage area is required.
The main criteria when deciding on the type
of storage are: the moisture of material and
therefore its stickiness; and pre-blending

requirements.

SCRAPER RECLAIMER WITH THE NEED FOR PRE-BLENDING
The selection is mainly oriented towards longitudinal or circular
storage: both type of machines are very similar since they both
have a traditional stacker (rotating or running) and a frontal rake
reclaimer.
There are cases, though quite uncommon,
where in the longitudinal storage the stacking
is done by a central tripper or a shuttle belt
conveyor hanging on the shed ceiling. This
solution reduces the cost but involves

considerable levels of dust.

SELECTION CRITERIA

available space: circular storage needs at least 30% less space than longitudinal storage, so the shed can be much smaller;
preblending and throughput constancy: longitudinal storage is highly discontinuous in the cones at the beginning and ending of pile. On the other hand, the pile sectional of the circular storage is more constant; the section is always the same nx360° long;
possibility of future expansion: longitudinal storage can possibly be extended in the future, while circular storage cannot. However, from a statistical point of view, in the experience of Italian bulk handling specialist Bedeschi, very few longitudinal storage facilities have been extended;
idle time during pile exchange: once circular storage has performed the first pile, it goes on with a continuous working process, which is technically endless, followed by the reclaimer. Longitudinal storage, with its two piles, has a discontinuous process: the stacker is working on one pile and the reclaimer on the other one. The pile exchange is normally performed by the operator.

SCRAPER RECLAIMER WITH NO NEED FOR PRE-BLENDING
Stacking is performed with a traditional lateral stacker or with a
tripper. The reclaimer can be selected among a lateral cantilever
boom reclaimer, a portal or semiportal reclaimer. The process is
absolutely equivalent; the different choice is due only to the
plant design reasons and to the costs of the civil work.
With a boom length bigger than 25–30m., it is more
economical to use a portal reclaimer.
A very long cantilever boom requires a very heavy
counterweight with relevant overall dimensions and suitably
elevated loading on the foundations.
A further important point in the longitudinal reclaimers is the
possibility of obtaining piles which are not delimited by
transversal walls. This can happen with quite long piles (with a
rate length/width of approximately ≥ 2.5 ÷3).
When the rate is lower to that above mentioned, the length
of the full section is the same or shorter to that of the end
cones with the consequent discontinuity of the reclaiming.
In this case it is advisable to have transversal walls which
delimitate the deadlock problems and have thus the pile full
section all along the length.
This is a typical situation in the additives storage section
where there might be numerous and very short deadlocks, of
different materials.
The automatic control of stacker and reclaimer is often the
solution to this kind of problems: the fast and frequent pile
change can be performed without the need of any operator.
The above-mentioned situation also implies some specific
technical solutions to the machine and its relevant accessories
and electronic sensors: the reclaimers work as dosing system
since they have to fill the downstream correspondent hopper;
therefore the pile changes are controlled by the downstream

hopper minimum level.

BUCKET RECLAIMER WITH NO NEED FOR PRE-BLENDING
In the case of moist and sticky materials (with moisture higher
than 10%), it is fundamental to utilize bucket
machines (not with scrapers). Bedeschi’s
buckets are suitable for reclaiming material with
moisture higher than 30% and their scraping
system assures the buckets perfect emptying
and cleaning. These difficulties are emphasized
when the process is performed in very cold
countries where the material characteristics
can change quite often and depend both on
temperature and according to the different
seasons. In springtime and autumn, the material
can be very sticky while it gets frozen in winter.
In this case nothing is better than the bucket
system which can even break the icy crust
formed on the surface of material.
The selection criteria are the same as
described in the ‘Scraper reclaimer with no
need for pre-blending’ though with the use of

buckets instead of scrapers.

BUCKET RECLAIMER WITH THE NEED FOR PRE-BLENDING
The only possible solution for pre-blending and reclaiming of
moist and sticky material is the Bedeschi reclaimer Bel C with
side-walls.
It is a bucket reclaimer which can reclaim the sticky material,
and empty and clean the buckets, by means of a special blade
scraper system.
The trolley and its relevant boom runs along the bridge and
allow the frontal reclaiming of material from the various stacked
layers granting in this way the mixing of the different layers and
an excellent pre-blending.
Bedeschi has very wide experience in this field, with
customers all over the world.
The installation of hoppers down-stream the line, before the
grinding system, is a great disadvantage once dealing with the
handling and conveying of sticky materials: the risk is to clog the
hoppers and stop the line. A very reliable solution is to
eliminate the intermediate hopper and feed the down-stream
mill directly from reclaimer (this is valid both for the lateral
bucket reclaimer and for the frontal Bel C bucket reclaimer). In
this case it is necessary to install a weight feeder on the
machine, suitable to measure and feed continuously the downstream
mill. This solution requires that the reclaimer motors be
equipped with an inverter, controlled by the weight feeder
feedback, which will allow to use the reclaimer as a dosing
system.
Bedeschi Company can supply all the above-mentioned

handling solutions for raw materials.