PORT TALBOT

• GBPTB
• Latitude: 51.5787
• Longitude: -3.79837
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Port Talbot Neath Port Talbot SA13 UK

Port Talbot Overview

Port Talbot is a prominent deep-water harbor situated on the south coast of Wales, United Kingdom. The port primarily serves as a major gateway for the import and export of bulk commodities, with a particular focus on supporting the nearby steelworks owned by Tata Steel. Its strategic location allows it to handle large vessels, making it an important node in the global supply chain for industries relying on bulk materials.

Specifications and Features

Location

• Latitude: 51° 34' N
• Longitude: 3° 45' W
• Country: United Kingdom
• Region: Wales

Harbor Type

• Type: Deep-water Harbor
• Structure: Man-made and natural estuarine harbor

Port Facilities

• Berths:

  • Primarily includes deep-water berths designed for large bulk carriers.
  • Facilities specialized for handling iron ore, coal, and other bulk commodities.

• Draft Depth:

  • Entrance channel minimum depth: Approximately 16.5 meters.
  • Inner basin: Varies but generally maintains significant draft depth to accommodate large vessels.

• Quay Length:

  • Multiple berths with quays supporting various logistical operations.

• Cargo Handling Equipment:

  • Heavy-duty cranes and conveyor belts for efficient loading and unloading.
  • Storage warehouses and open storage areas.

• Modern Facilities:

  • Advanced navigation and communication systems.
  • Real-time monitoring and management systems for operations efficiency.

Services

• Towage and Pilotage:

  • Compulsory pilotage services for guiding vessels into the port.
  • Tugboat services available for assisting large vessels.

• Bunkering:

  • Fuel and oil bunkering services.

• Repairs and Maintenance:

  • Basic ship repair facilities.
  • Workshops available for minor maintenance operations.

• Logistics:

  • Rail connections to major UK networks for smooth inland transportation.
  • Road links to the M4 motorway for freight transport across the UK.

Maritime Safety and Security

• VTS (Vessel Traffic Service):

  • Monitored VTS system to ensure safe and efficient vessel movements within port limits.

• ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code Compliance:

  • Stringent security measures in place aligned with international standards to safeguard port activities.

Major Commodities Handled

• Iron Ore:
  • For the nearby Tata Steelworks.
• Coal:
  • Import for energy production and industrial use.
• Bulk Cargoes:
  • Variety of bulk commodities including aggregates and minerals.

Strategic Importance

Port Talbot's capabilities make it an essential hub in the UK's heavy industry sector, particularly in steel manufacturing and bulk commodity logistics. Its infrastructure supports efficient handling of large-scale imports and exports, contributing significantly to the local and national economy.

Environmental and Community Initiatives

• Environmental Management:

  • Adherence to UK environmental regulations to minimize impact on surrounding ecosystems.
  • Initiatives for sustainable operation practices.

• Community Engagement:

  • Programs aimed at local community development and employment opportunities.

Conclusion

Port Talbot serves as a critical infrastructure asset for the UK's maritime trade, especially for heavy industries. Its deep-water capabilities, modern facilities, and comprehensive services ensure efficient handling of bulk commodities, reinforcing its status as a vital port on the Welsh coast.

These specifications highlight Port Talbot's capacity to manage substantial volumes of maritime traffic and support industrial operations, making it a cornerstone in regional and international trade networks.