Rio Tinto’s Cape Lambert Facility Returns to Full Operation
09/16/2008 - Rio Tinto’s Cape Lambert port resumes full operations following the return of Car Dumper 2 to service.
Rio Tinto reports that its Car Dumper 2 at Cape Lambert has returned to service, allowing the port to resume full operations. The rail car dumper had been shut since an air compressor car was jammed in the dumper on Sunday, August 31.
The facility achieved full recovery well ahead of schedule, beginning with a series of tests, safety checks and progressive ramp-up. The company reports the dumper returned to peak cycle overnight and had already unloaded several trains.
The twin-cell dumper incurred no significant damage.
Sam Walsh, Rio Tinto chief executive, Iron Ore, said the early return was a credit to the recovery and repair teams and others who maintained on-going operations throughout the recovery phase.
"Not only was this turnaround achieved well inside our expectations, but the difficult task was achieved with safety paramount for all involved. This has made an excellent effort all the more satisfying," he said.
"I am also pleased not only that Rio Tinto's other four dumpers at Dampier and Cape Lambert operated at peak capacity throughout the shut, but that the flexibility gained through our one-port system meant we were able to minimize any loss of tonnage and minimize any demurrage as a result.
The company has now terminated its force majeure notification of September 3, 2008.
Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the U.K., combining Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited. Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe, and southern Africa.
