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Mining Logistics Project
| This project
involved a logistics analysis for a new copper/cobalt mining deposit in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo in 1997. Seaport Consultants, Inc.'s assignment consisted of
determining the most suitable and cost effective port through which to move product
originating in central Africa. Seaport also determined the best methods to move backhaul
cargoes and mine supplies. The project was accomplished under contract to Morrison-Knudsen International, which was responsible for the rail analysis and contract negotiations. Dedicated trains would move copper cathode and cobalt from mine to port and return with prilled sulfur and mine consumables. Ports in Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa and Angola were first evaluated through a field inspection and numerous industry interviews. In each case, Seaport examined
We also determined rates for inbound cargoes, such as mine consumables, moving through each port and compiled ocean transport costs for use in the overall feasibility study. A candidate port was identified and negotiations begun with operators and suppliers. Finally, Seaport managed the concept design of a container able to carry copper cathode and drummed cobalt on the outbound rail journey from the Congo to port as well as bulk, prilled sulfur on the return rail journey back to the mine. The container would also be suitable for road transport. Materials handling, safety and ventilation requirements were addressed in the concept design. |
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