OREANDA-NEWS. Almost 50 years after it opened, in 1966, Tubarao could see its capacity increased by ten per cent

The Port of Tubarao in Espirito Santo, the site of Vale's oldest port facilities for the export of its iron ore, is currently being modernized. Almost 50 years after it opened, in 1966, Tubarao is receiving BRL 1.8 billion in investments to become more efficient, with the focus on reducing costs and increasing operational safety.

The port handles approximately 30% of Vale's annual iron ore output. In 2013, the terminal is expected to export 103 million metric tons of iron ore and pellets, 18% below its 125 million-metric ton capacity. The conclusion of this modernization project should result in a 10% hike in Tubarao's capacity.

This investment is intended to upgrade the Tubarao industrial complex and achieve gains in productivity to maintain our competitive edge over our competitors. Four stackers are being procured, one already at the assembly stage, and three reclaimers. The investment will also lead to a reduction in energy consumption and improve energy efficiency, as well as providing employees with a safer working environment. One example of this is the fact that the new equipment can be controlled remotely from an operational control centre.