OREANDA-NEWS. The mechanical assembly of the import and export lines, executed onshore, is one of the stages of construction of the Teluk Rubiah marine terminal and distribution centre, in Lumut, Malaysia, that has seen the most progress over the last few months. The task, which Vale and its contractors commenced in 2011, may well be completed ahead of schedule, according to Soe Myint, site coordinater at the company A&T.

The onshore import line has already been concluded, while the export line is scheduled for completion this month. Approximately 21.2 thousand metric tons of structural steel, along with 32.4 thousand metres of pipeline and 4.5 thousand metres of track, have already been used in the project, which, when completed, will be used to move iron ore by a system of conveyor belts. Other stages that have already been completed include mechanical assembly of the offshore import and export lines, assembly of a ship loader and three mobile unloaders.

Strategy and sustainability

Teluk Rubiah represents an advance in Vale's strategy to establish closer ties with the Asian market and to be capable of offering products that meet demand. The terminal also represents a learning opportunity for the company, as it will feature ground-breaking technology not currently utilized in any of Vale's other port facilities. The company consistently adopted a long-term and cautious approach towards all aspects and impacts likely to affect people, the community and the environment.