New technology increases breakbulk capacity at the Port of Sundsvall

Here, three employees of SCA Logistics share their experience of and insights into the development of breakbulk handling at the Port of Sundsvall.

Larger vessels and more efficient loading

“We have seen a distinct trend towards larger vessels, meaning we can transport larger volumes of cargo at a time and reduce the cost per shipped tonne,” says SCA Logistics’ Sundsvall Terminal Manager Dennis Melarti.

To meet these needs, the port has invested in more powerful cranes and other equipment that is capable of efficiently handling large volumes.

“We have three articulated cranes that can effectively handle bulk, and we are also awaiting delivery of a new crane, our largest model, which is due in the second quarter of next year. We will then be able to load and unload very large vessels with two cranes simultaneously,” says Dennis.

With operational responsibility for the Port of Sundsvall, SCA Logistics is preparing capacity to be able to load up to 30,000 tonnes of paper pulp per vessel in 2025. As Dennis explains, with a draught of 15 metres, the new container port will be able to accommodate larger vessels, thus contributing to breakbulk capacity and making the Port of Sundsvall competitive for future cargo flows.

SCA Logistics Risk Manager Roger Sävåker explains how new technology has improved both the handling and safety of cargoes.

“We have introduced a new clamp attachment for lifting pulp bales. Instead of lifting by the bale twine, which can damage the material, the clamp grips the cargo from the sides.”

This is especially important when handling Chemi-Thermo­Mechanical Pulp (CTMP), when every lift must be executed as carefully as possible to avoid damage.

Roger also describes a new method for loading kraftliner rolls vertically, reducing the risk of damage in transit.

“Loading the rolls standing up means they don’t shift as much in the cargo hold, and we can even place friction mats between the rolls to further protect them,” he says.

While this method does require new equipment, it will reduce damage in transit and ensure that the cargo is delivered to the customer in the best possible condition.

Environmental adaption and the transition to greener fuels

Andreas Disby, Forwarding Manager at Vessel Operations, SCA Logistics, offers perspective on developments in vessels for breakbulk cargo.

“The shipping industry is changing in response to new directives on fuel emissions, and many shipping companies are looking at hybrid vessels powered by greener fuels,” says Andreas.

For SCA Logistics, this means further adaption to sustainable solutions and energy-saving processes. The port’s close cooperation with shipping companies and customers ensures that cargo is not only handled efficiently but also with minimal environmental impact.

Safety, streamlining and growing volumes

Dennis, Roger and Andreas are convinced that, with increasing demand for breakbulk capacity and a long-term focus on sustainability, the Port of Sundsvall will become an even more significant hub. By continuously developing both technology and working methods, SCA Logistics is striving to create a flexible, sustainable breakbulk operation that meets future needs.

“We will continue to streamline our processes to remain competitive and handle the growing volumes of cargo in a safe and sustainable manner,” says Dennis.

Increased capacity and new security solutions are preparing SCA Logistics to receive both larger vessels and more complex cargoes in future.

Text: Håkan Norberg
Photo: Håkan Sjödin