JOHANNESHOV, SWEDEN — Bruks Siwertell introduced a port-mobile unloader with an expanded operational range.

It can offer totally enclosed, high-efficiency dry bulk material handling to the grain, soybean meal, alumina and cement industries.

“The port-mobile unloader was initially launched to challenge the limitations of pneumatic discharge systems used in grain handling,” said Jörgen Ojeda, director, mobile unloaders, Bruks Siwertell. “However, we realized that, as well as ensuring high-capacities, no spillage and close-to-zero dust emissions, it delivers many distinct benefits when handling all these materials.”

Unloading dry bulk with screw conveyor technology provides low material degradation rates, minimizing the production of powdery fines, Ojeda said.

“Like all Siwertell unloaders, port-mobile units offer a steady conveying velocity, with no particle collisions or crushing forces, which is in contrast to the cargo degradation concerns that traditionally accompany pneumatic unloaders,” he said.

Fines, produced when materials degrade, are problematic for many dry bulks. For grains and soybeans, the quality of whole shipments can be downgraded, significantly impacting profits.

“Many ports already benefit from Siwertell road-mobile unloaders, which offer competitively-priced flexibility and mobility,” said Ojeda. “For operators looking for a port-based system retaining similar flexibility during operation but needing to discharge much larger vessels at a higher capacity, then our new port-mobile unloaders are a fantastic, extremely cost-effective option.”

The port-mobile unloader is available in two sizes, a 400-tph and 600-tph model. Both can discharge vessels up to 60,000 dwt. They are fitted with a low weight, rubber-tired gantry, which moves the unit to wherever it is needed along the quay. Ensuring a high through-ship efficiency the port-mobile unloader can reposition its +/- 30-degree articulating conveyor arm and reach all areas of the cargo hold, including underneath the hatch corners.

Additionally, port-mobile unloaders use simplified, standard technology, which minimizes maintenance and wear parts costs.