Superior launches ship-loading conveyor

Mobility is one of the most important functions of the ship-loading TeleStacker conveyor, Superior says. Photo: Superior Industries

Superior Industries completed development of a new model TeleStacker conveyor for loading dry bulk cargo ships.

The multipurpose mobile conveyor incorporates truck-unloading and ship-loading capabilities into a single machine, according to Superior.

“Since expanding our TeleStacker conveyor to marine-based applications in the early 2000s, we’ve collected hundreds of datapoints, design preferences and functional requirements from operators and engineers,” says Scott Gulan, sales manager at Superior. “We gathered all of their feedback and combined it with the knowledge we’ve gained to produce an impressive, multifunctional ship-loading conveyor.”

Mobility is one of the most important functions of the ship-loading TeleStacker conveyor, Superior says. All-wheel travel capability means moves are easy throughout confined quays and terminals, including carousel, crab, parallel, inline and radial movements. Adjusting wheel positions takes less than a minute, the company adds, meaning moves from hatch to hatch or from storage to operation are easier and faster than ever.

Many movements can take place during active material handling to maintain consistent feeding of the ship, Superior says.

According to Superior, a key feature is the conveyor’s integrated truck-unloading system. This means the truck’s ramps, hopper and conveyor are all connected to the tail end of the TeleStacker. Owners and operators will eliminate double handling and preserve material quality from bed of truck to hold of ship, Superior says.

The incorporated truck unloader is operated by the same power source, which lifts or lowers the undercarriage during transportation or adjustment of the truck target.

“Since the unloading and loading machines are one, they move and operate seamlessly and neatly,” Gulan says. “This greatly reduces all the time it takes for operators who historically managed the relocation of several pieces of gear.”

The ship-loading TeleStacker is best suited for loading Panamax vessels, Superior says. Models include units for rear truck unloading and compact side unloading. The 170-ft.-long conveyor’s belt is 42 in. wide for production of up to 1,500 tph.