Vports Upgrades Docks at Port of Vitória, Forecasts Growth in Pig Iron Shipments

Vports has contracted with port operator Multilift to enhance pig iron handling at the Port of Vitória. Pig iron is the fourth most significant cargo at the port. In 2023, pig iron shipments totaled 650,000 tonnes, and there are expectations for increased volumes in the future.

This agreement marks the ninth contract since the private sector took over the port two years ago. “This effort aims to strategically strengthen the state by generating development, employment, revenue, and income,” said Gustavo Serrão, CEO of Vports.

Under the contract, one dock will be dedicated to pig iron cargo to streamline berthing and handling operations. “Our operational planning focuses on reducing operational costs, enhancing our capacity to meet growing demands, and significantly contributing to the region’s economic development,” Serrão added.

The port has been undergoing modernization with an investment of around R$ 150 million, which includes the renovation of silos, revitalization of warehouses, dock repairs, structural improvements, and the optimization of previously unused areas due to maintenance or structural issues.

As part of this plan, docks 905 and 206 at the Paul Port Terminal, used for pig iron and fuel handling, have been refurbished. The upgrades have improved productivity and safety and extended the lifespan of the structures, enhancing competitiveness. According to Anderson Polido, Vports’ Project and Engineering Manager, the docks, built about 65 years ago, required restoration to maintain operational guarantees, as their estimated lifespan is 50 years.

Dock 905 is 160 meters long and 12 meters wide, while Dock 206 measures 261 meters long with the same width. The refurbishment involved paving 5,000 square meters of the quay, structural repairs, and painting over 6,000 square meters, using 22 tonnes of steel and 3,000 cubic meters of concrete. The project, including drainage and backfilling work, took 150 days and involved 200 workers. A significant challenge was carrying out the work while keeping the docks operational without interrupting terminal operations.

Pig iron is produced from iron ore, charcoal, gravel, and limestone in blast furnaces designed for this purpose. This material is used in large steel structures and everyday objects such as cars and appliances.

Brazil is one of the world’s largest producers of pig iron. A significant portion of its production is destined for export, and all of it passes through the port complex.

Source: ES Brasil

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