Mining/Bulk Processing Industry - Container Handling Case Study

Queensland Magnesia (QMAG), Parkhurst, Rockhampton (Australia) - 18th March 2009

Background

QMAG operates a magnesite mine at Kunwarara, and a magnesia production facility at Parkhurst in Rockhampton, Queensland.

The Situation

There are typically 150 containers loaded each week.

Empty containers are received via road. The empty containers are removed from the truck, using an empty container fork and stored until required.

Containers are filled either on the ground, with 20kg/bulk bags, or with bulk via tipper stands, which angle the containers up for bulk loading.  Once loaded, these bulk containers are removed from the stands via the Mobicon and either placed into the despatch area or directly onto transport.

It is a harsh and dusty site with a yard surface that is hard packed and not level.  A heavy fork was not an option.

It was vital that the plant to maximise the loading window for either rail or export vessels by pre-receiving empty containers and then loading these when and where they required.  Their ability to meet rail and ship deadlines was critical and reliability was crucial.

Container Handling Solution

QMAG implemented a new Mobicon System which saw them achieve:

• Flexibility in their operation with total control over container movements.
• Autonomy with their ability to choose how and when outside operators interface with their site.
• Safety in operation with containers being moved on twist locks, with maximum visibility and only 30cm from the ground.

The single Mobicon operation was augmented in late 2007 by a second Mobicon. 

This second machine was necessary not only due to increasing volumes but also as a means to enable container operations to continue whilst a planned maintenance program was implemented.

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