Itaqui Port Invests in Technology to Fast-Track Berth 98 Construction

The Port of Itaqui, managed by Empresa Maranhense de Administração Portuária (EMAP) in São Luís, Maranhão, is leveraging technology to expedite the construction of Berth 98. Last week, the port began using Cantitravel, a specialized piece of equipment that replaces traditional nautical support, enhancing safety, efficiency, and precision in operations.

Cantitravel is a steel superstructure designed to support two cranes with a capacity of 200 tonnes each, along with other equipment needed for piling. The system, commonly used in bridge and linear dock construction, eliminates the need for maritime or floating supports in areas with significant tidal variations and strong currents, where conventional equipment would be less effective.

“This is the first time we’re using Cantitravel in our projects. Berth 98 is a milestone for Maranhão’s port infrastructure. Alongside our partners, we’re bringing more technology to the region and reinforcing the port’s role as a driver of development in the Northern Arc,” said Isa Mary Mendonça, acting president of Porto do Itaqui.

As piling, excavation, and concreting progress, Cantitravel advances with the foundation work. The next phase will involve assembling precast elements and pouring concrete on-site, solidifying the structure. “This system reduces production uncertainty, optimizes resource use, and, most importantly, enhances safety,” noted Marcel Santos, the port’s engineering director.

Accelerated Pace

The project is currently in the foundation phase, with around 20% of the work already completed. The timeline remains on track, reinforcing the commitment to deadlines and the quality of the new port infrastructure. Completion is scheduled for October 2026.

With an investment of R$ 289 million, the new dock will have a depth of up to 18 meters and dimensions of 320 meters by 40 meters, allowing for the docking of large vessels. It is expected to increase the port’s export capacity by over 8 million tonnes annually, boosting revenue by approximately 20%.

The structure, spanning 12,800 square meters, will feature ship loaders, a fire suppression system, water and electricity supply networks, bunker infrastructure for vessel refueling, a stormwater drainage system, a sanitary wastewater treatment system, restrooms and guardhouses, a lightning protection system, and a CCTV surveillance network.

The project is further accelerated by using precast elements and on-site concrete. The structure is built with durable materials, including 302 metal piles installed through reverse circulation drilling and cast in place. The submerged concrete work extends to depths exceeding 30 meters, with a diameter of one meter.

Impact on Port Operations

The expansion of Porto do Itaqui enhances Maranhão’s logistical competitiveness while ensuring compliance with technical and environmental standards. “Beyond job creation, the new berth will significantly increase cargo throughput, benefiting both the state and national economies,” said Thiago Costa, the port’s construction project execution coordinator.

The chart below shows the top most exported cargoes at the Itaqui Port in 2024. This information was derived from DataLiner.

Itaqui Port | Top Exports | 2024 | WTMT

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

The consortium responsible for the construction includes Belov Engenharia, Edeconsil Construções, and EXE Engenharia. Currently, 150 workers are involved in the project, with the workforce expected to double to 300 as construction progresses. Local labor accounts for 80% of the workforce.

Sharing is caring!