How Unitrans Manages the Complexities of Bulk Material Handling
Unitrans is a leading provider of logistics and transportation services across Sub-Saharan Africa. Our Mining Division boasts extensive expertise in managing the complexities of bulk material handling. With a focus on innovation, safety, and efficiency, Unitrans uses advanced technologies, including Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles to optimise operations for our mining customers.
Mining and bulk material handling
Bulk material handling in mining is fraught with complexities that are commonly associated with the physical and operational challenges of moving massive quantities of materials efficiently and safely. One of the primary complexities is maintaining a continuous and efficient flow of materials across a mine site. This involves navigating different terrains, catering for changing environments, and ensuring efficient delivery throughout the mining operation.
Overcoming the complexities of bulk material handling
The successful handling of bulk materials in mining requires a sophisticated blend of engineering, technology, and strategic planning to address these multifaceted challenges. Unitrans provides a comprehensive range of services to the mining industry, including on-mine and off-mine services, bulk handling, drilling and blasting, load and haul, road maintenance, dust suppression and stockpile management. Operating in the often rugged and remote mining environments of Sub-Saharan Africa, our teams have developed specialised expertise in overcoming challenges posed by terrain, weather, and infrastructure constraints. We deploy customised solutions that prioritise safety, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
Our PBS vehicle fleet
As part of our operational approach, we use Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles as one element to help overcome the challenges associated with bulk material handling in mining. As an industry leader, our use of PBS vehicles improves efficiency and sustainability in bulk material handling. Our PBS vehicles are designed based on performance metrics, rather than traditional size and weight restrictions. This deployment enables:
- Increased productivity: PBS vehicles increase payload capacity that enable Unitrans to transport larger loads – up to 140 tons, reducing the number of trips required, decreasing the queuing in loading and offloading areas and lowering our operational carbon footprint.
- Enhanced safety features: Advanced safety features, including improved braking systems and stability controls play an important role in helping our drivers navigate challenging terrains in mining operations.
- Cost savings: The use of PBS vehicles translates into reduced fleet size, fuel consumption and lower overall transportation costs.
Improving bulk material handling for a mining company
At a customer’s mining site, our Unitrans team implemented a PBS road train transportation solution that resulted in significant improvements across their operations. By optimising vehicle configurations and achieving higher payloads, our team was able to deliver a 23% reduction in fuel consumption per ton hauled which led to enhanced operational efficiency for our mining customer. This also led to a decrease of 54% in the number of vehicles required to perform the operation. As a result, the mining customer reaped the benefits of improved productivity and a measurable reduction in their carbon footprint.
Our deep understanding of PBS technology and its application in the mining industry sets Unitrans apart from its competitors. Our in-house engineering expertise and extensive experience within Africa’s mining sector enables our teams to develop tailored solutions that deliver exceptional performance, safety, and sustainability for our customers across Sub-Saharan Africa’s mining industry.
