A ship-to-shore hopper used to set new records at the Port of Tilbury and on the River Thames was designed, installed and commissioned by Hull-based Spencer Group.
Teams from Hull-based Spencer Group’s Design, Civils and M&E teams created the new bulk handling device at the largest port serving London, to act as the primary link between vessels and shore conveyors.
Two opposingly mounted vibrating feeders are speed regulated to ensure the hopper maintains a plug of material; preventing potential damage from falling lumps, whilst ensuring the outfeed on to the downstream shore conveyors is fed centrally without spillage.
Spencer Group’s project team also carried out the strengthening of the existing jetty structure at London’s principal port, in order to support the weight of the new hopper.
The hopper recently made history after receiving a visit from the Yeoman Bridge, one of the world’s two largest self-discharging bulk carriers.
The 249m vessel, also known as Big Red, used the hopper, becoming the largest vessel ever to be discharged at the Port of Tilbury as well as the biggest ship to travel down the Thames.
Chris Kirkby, Spencer Group Principal Engineer (Design), said: “The new hopper is an impressive machine, capable of handling different aggregate products from sand to primary crushed stone discharged by some of the world’s largest bulk carriers.
“This was a fantastic project to be part of, with our team playing a significant role in leading the design development from an initial concept through to coordinating the commissioning activities for the hopper.
“The successful outcome of the project is a testament to the absolute collaboration between the whole project team, as well as working closely with our client, Port of Tilbury London Limited, the supply chain and specialist contractors.
“In my 10 years at Spencer Group, it certainly has been a career highlight and a project in which I am proud to say I played a part in.”
