Port of Paranaguá deploys technology to cut dust emissions during bulk loading

The Port of Paranaguá has begun operating new telescopic loading spouts equipped with dust suppression devices at the East Export Corridor, a system designed to reduce particulate emissions during the loading of agricultural bulk cargo.

The equipment — known as Dust Suppressor Hoppers (DHS) — is used to load grains and meal into ship holds. Each spout can handle up to 2,000 tonnes of solid vegetable bulk cargo per hour.

The installation is part of a broader modernization program at Paraná’s ports, backed by an investment of 12.2 million reais ($2.4 million) from port authority Portos do Paraná.

“This type of investment shows that it is possible to increase production and cargo throughput while also protecting the environment with responsibility and sustainability,” said Luiz Fernando Garcia, chief executive of Portos do Paraná.

According to Ronaldo Gnoatto, mechanical coordinator at the authority’s engineering and maintenance division, the telescopic spouts incorporate a new technology developed by a supplier working exclusively with Portos do Paraná.

“The equipment reduces dust generation through the grain flow mechanics inside the tube. As grains and meal pass through the device, they create a vortex that concentrates particles, preventing them from dispersing into the air,” he said.

Another advantage is lower energy consumption, as the system requires fewer motors to operate. Because the mechanism does not rely on filters, maintenance is simpler and does not require periodic shutdowns for component replacement, helping increase cargo-handling productivity at the port.

According to Vader Zuliane Braga, coordinator of monitoring and quality at the environmental division, the first results from the new system have been positive.

“The system has been working very well and is visibly reducing particulate emissions, improving air quality,” Braga said.

Installation of the equipment began in December during the port’s scheduled maintenance period and responds to requirements from Brazil’s environmental regulator, the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama).

“We have several obligations related to the Air Quality Monitoring Program, and this is a major initiative implemented by Portos do Paraná,” Braga said.

Source: Port of Paranaguá

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