Skiptainers could reduce costs for junior miners

A relatively low-cost skiptainer handling system being pioneered in the port of East London for coal exports could help junior miners elsewhere in the country reduce logistics costs. The open-topped containers – made in Uitenhage by Transnet subsidiary TRE – are designed to be offloaded using rotating spreaders. According to Khetho Nyawose, the newly appointed terminal manager for the East London multi-purpose terminal, the system has proven to be environmentally friendly and reliable in the port of Adelaide, Australia. Dust levels are kept to a minimum because the product is loaded well below the lip of the containers, which are carried at a relatively low speed by rail. Furthermore, a mist spray dust suppression system will be used to eliminate any dust that might escape from the hull of the vessel. The containers are stacked on top of each other ahead of the arrival of the vessel. Discharge into the vessel takes place deep in the hold, further reducing emissions. Water spray is also used to dampen any dust. “The system is less capital intensive than others in use, and we believe it will help the junior miners become more competitive.”