The Civil Engineering Contractor November 2018 | Page 8

PROJECT OWNERS Richards Bay port conveyor Project: Infrastructure, terminal conveyor Client: Transnet Port Terminal Location: Richards Bay Terminal Construction of civil works, including structural and fire protection for the new C01 conveyor in the Port of Richards Bay, carries an estimated contract value of R67-million and has a contract period of one year and four months. According to a notice published on the CIDB website, DTA 646911 has been awarded to a joint venture between Aveng (Africa) (70%) and Khonzi Trading and Projects (30%). Richards Bay is South Africa’s major bulk port and the most modern. Although built in 1976 for the export of coal, it has since expanded into other bulk and break-bulk cargoes. The multipurpose terminal is situated in the deep-water port of Richards Bay, and is the product of the merging of two separate terminals, namely the Bulk Metal and Combi terminals. The resultant integration of infrastructure and facilities has enhanced the terminal’s ability to logistically manage a variety of cargo types, namely break bulk, neo- bulk, and containers. It is currently undergoing expansion: a deep-sea water port boasting 13 berths, the terminal handles dry bulk ores, minerals, and break-bulk consignments with a draft that easily accommodates Capesize and Panamax vessels. The terminal now exports over 30 varied commodities from magnetite to ferrochrome, woodchips to aluminium, and are steel handled via a computer-controlled network of conveyor belts extending 40km to seven harbour-bound industries. These belts transport cargo between the quayside and the respective manufacturers. This mainly to the UK, US, India, the Middle East, as well as Far East and Pacific Rim countries. Over 15 imported commodities including sulphur, coking coal, and alumina go through the port annually from countries like Australia and Canada as well as West African countries. nn Richards Bay is South Africa’s largest terminal and is currently expanding. 6 | CEC November 2018 www.civilsonline.co.za