Overland Conveyors
Industry Overview
Overland conveyors are belt conveyors that have been designed to carry high tonnage loads over long distances. In some cases, this mode of transportation might not be desirable but can be ideal for consistent movement of large volumes of material. The most common commodities carried are bulk materials and include the following:
- Iron ore
- Coal
- Grains
- Wood
- Waste/Trash
Overland conveyors can be applicable in many different industries and can range from just a few thousand feet to several miles in length. Industries such as mining, power, paper, waste, and cement have utilized conveyors as a way to transport materials.
Advantages
Overland conveyor can be more cost efficient than other modes of transportation. These cost advantages come into play when looking at the long term benefits. With the proper high volume and consistency, conveyors are very efficient and have a much lower operating cost than other modes. Conveyors also offer an environmentally friendly operation that doesn't stir up pollution or produce loud sounds.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantage of conveyors is that they are not flexible and have high capital costs. Conveyors are very costly to build and to move or relocate. Since they can not be moved, conveyors rely on other modes to overcome their accessibility issues.
Competition
Overland conveyors compete with water, rail, and truck for the movement of bulk materials.However, conveyors can be more efficient when looking at the long term costs. Intermodal is also an important aspect to consider. With the limited network, conveyors are forced to work with other modes to overcome the accessibility disadvantage.
TTI
Overland conveyors are an important aspect to the nations intermodal transportation plan. An example of a intermodal application of overland conveyors close to home is the TTI short line and the transportation of coal. TTI carries coal by rail to Maysville where the coal is then dumped onto a conveyor. The conveyor carries the coal about 1000 ft to load it onto a barge. In this case, the conveyor provides a link between modes.
Sources
Metzger, Dick. "Long Distance Conveying-Long Term Savings."Superior Technical Bulletin (2007): n. pag. Web. 13 Nov. 2012. <
"Superior Industries Manufacturer of Conveyor Systems and Components."Superior Industries â Manufacturer of Conveyor Systems and Components.N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2012. <
"Welcome to TTI Railroad's Website." - TTI Railroad Bulk Commodity Reloaders. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Nov. 2012. <