On November 27, LKAB inaugurated its new ship loader on the Port of Narvik in Norway, with the milestone representing a strategic funding within the firm’s logistics system to create the circumstances for long-term operations within the area.
The previous ship loader was commissioned in 1977 and has reached the top of its technical lifespan. Now, a contemporary facility takes over, constructed to satisfy right now’s necessities for effectivity, work atmosphere and environmental efficiency, the corporate says.
Marit Waleniussen, CEO of LKAB Norway, stated: “Our logistics is a aggressive issue. Each enchancment within the port strengthens our place within the world market. The brand new loader is enclosed and outfitted with fashionable security options, which is vital not least from a piece atmosphere perspective. This secures our skill to ship rapidly, safely and sustainably.”
The ship loader is an element of a bigger ongoing funding program of SEK5 billion ($527 million) via 2029. This contains automated silo techniques, a brand new loader at quay 5, sifting stations, belt conveyors, unloading stations and a brand new storage facility for fines. These are all geared toward streamlining logistics between mine, railway and ship.
Jan Moström, President and CEO of LKAB, stated: “We see Narvik as a central a part of LKAB’s future. The Iron Ore Line and the port of Narvik are of nice financial significance for Sweden and a strategically important transport hall for all of Europe. What nonetheless stays is to extend capability alongside the whole Iron Ore Line.”
Narvik’s ice-free and deep-water port is essential for LKAB’s exports. Round 300 vessels name yearly, of which 200 are loaded with LKAB’s merchandise. LKAB accounts for 80% of all iron ore mined within the EU, and the overwhelming majority is delivered through the Iron Ore Line and the port of Narvik. Every year, about 22 Mt of iron ore merchandise are shipped from Kiruna and Svappavaara to Narvik for export.Transport takes place through the Iron Ore Line (Malmbanan), a crucial hyperlink in LKAB’s logistics system. Round 10 prepare units arrive day by day, hauled by IORE locomotives with a capability of as much as 8,000 t per prepare.
Mostrom added: “We’ve been in Narvik for over 120 years and plan for no less than 120 extra. Our continued investments right here ship a transparent sign that we see Narvik as a central a part of LKAB’s future.”
