The steady growth in global iron ore demand strongly impacts and changes material flows worldwide. For port operators to stay competitive in this environment, overall plant performance improvements are key.
This is achieved by implementing the most efficient electrical and automation equipment available in the market. To date, ports around the world are already preparing to face the challenge of increased material flow, by extending their capacities.
The Nouadhibou iron ore port in Mauritania followed the trend. Connected to the more than 700 kilometers long single railway line and served by several mine sites in Northern Mauritania, Nouadhibou is the most important iron ore port in Mauretania.
The main challenges for the port were to deal with heavy dutyy environement and manage high process.
ABB commissioned the upgrade to the newest control system including connecting all components to the central control room. The installed turnkey electrical automation system increases conveyor flow rate from 6.000 tons per hour to 10.000 tons per hour.
The project’s scope of supply comprised electrification of a ship loader, six variable-frequency driven conveyors and three transfer towers that were integrated into the existing control System 800XA.
Supported by sensors and instrumentation, both conveyors and transfer towers have been connected to the latest version of System 800xA, which enables most efficient operation and highest productivity
Furthermore, two new E-houses for the variable-frequency conveyor drives were equipped with HV- and LV switchgears, battery cells and control cubicles as well as a tailor-made air conditioning system that now supplies ideal cooling to all components.
To cut dust pollution, filters were implemented on every device of the system, thus eliminating a major issue encountered during iron ore handling.