Bulk handling in the Americas

Unprecedented quantity of bulk solids has been handled in the Americas over the past four decades. Several key events are responsible for this historical feat: Post World War II reconstruction initiated the momentum. Then the depletion of U.S. direct shipping ore gave birth to taconite and new material sources. That was followed by phosphates and met-coal. The energy crisis in the 1970s opened Western coal mines. The expansion of the 'Soo' Lock brought along the giant self-unloaders and new transshipment terminals on the Great Lakes. Iran gave rise to the second phase energy crisis and new coal export terminals. Finally the 1980s world recession forced major cutbacks and made it necessary to conserve and renovate. The resultant activities in bulk handling are plentiful. This paper will attempt to provide a synopsis through the following six facets: Equipment Transportation Systems approach Automation Ecological control Resource conservation and renovations.