SKM is bringing world-leading in-pit crushing and conveying (IPCC) capabilities to Vale’s development of the S11D iron ore project in Brazil’s Para region. This innovative system uses conveyor belts rather than trucks to transport ore from the mine to the stockpiles, reducing carbon emissions, lowering operating costs and improving site safety (http://corporate.im-mining.com/imevents/IPCC-2013.asp). SKM will provide engineering for the award-winning system, procurement support, project execution planning and project management services.This truckless mining at S11D brings additional advantages because of the large amount of material to move and overcomes difficulties posed with traffic management of the required truck fleet. It also provides a solution for terrain with steep grades (difficult for trucks) and the lack of a readily available skilled workforce (the mine is in a remote location).

Vale’s new mine in the Para region is expected to produce 90 Mt/y of iron ore, increasing total iron ore production in Para to 230 Mt/y. It is part of a $19.5 billion budget that includes new rail and port infrastructure. The mine is expected to begin operations in late 2015.