TUBARAO

• BRTUB
• Latitude: -20.2857
• Longitude: -40.243
• East Coast South America
• Port in Brazil

Location: Serra Espírito Santo 29161-000 Brazil

Web-site: http://www.vale.com/brasil/EN/business/logistics/ports-terminals/iron-ore/tubarao/

Marine Port Description and Specification: Port of Tubarão, Brazil

Location:

• The Port of Tubarão is located in the city of Vitória, in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. It is positioned strategically along the southeastern coast of Brazil.

Coordinates:

• Latitude: 20°18' S
• Longitude: 40°17' W

Overview:

• The Port of Tubarão is one of Brazil’s largest and busiest ports, primarily serving as a significant hub for the export of iron ore and other minerals. Managed by Vale S.A., a major global mining company, the port plays a crucial role in the logistics of mineral export and import.

Key Features:

1. Type of Port:

   • Deep-water seaport

2. Facilities:

   • Specialized terminals for bulk cargo, especially iron ore and coal.
   • Dedicated terminal for liquid bulk including oil and chemical products.
   • Multiple berths with high-capacity loading and unloading equipment.

3. Draft and Depth:

   • The port has sufficient depth to accommodate large vessels, with drafts ranging up to 23 meters (approximately 75 feet), allowing for the docking of very large ore carriers (VLOCs) and Cape-size vessels.

4. Cargo Handling:

   • The port is highly automated and equipped with advanced conveyor belt systems, cranes, and bulk loaders that facilitate high-efficiency handling of large volumes of minerals.
   • On-shore storage facilities for both iron ore and coal, enabling substantial buffer stock management.

5. Annual Throughput:

   • The Port of Tubarão handles hundreds of millions of tons of cargo annually, with iron ore being the primary commodity. The annual throughput exceeds 100 million tons, reflecting its position as a key node in global mineral supply chains.

6. Connectivity:

   • Well-connected by a network of railways and roads linking the mining areas in Minas Gerais and other regions to the port, ensuring steady and efficient transport of ore to the port for export.

7. Services:

   • Comprehensive maritime services including pilotage, towing, bunkering, and marine repairs.
   • Security measures in place to meet international standards, ensuring safe operations and cargo integrity.

Operational Highlights:

• The port operates 24/7, ensuring continuous processing and handling of cargo.
• Advanced environmental management practices are implemented to mitigate ecological impact due to bulk handling operations.

Significance:

• The Port of Tubarão is a vital asset to Brazil’s economy, underpinning the export-oriented growth of its mining sector.
• Its operations significantly contribute to the global supply of iron ore, essential for steel production and various industrial processes worldwide.

Future Developments:

• Continuous upgrades and expansions are in place to further enhance the port’s capacity, efficiency, and environmental sustainability, ensuring it remains competitive and capable of meeting future demand.

The Port of Tubarão stands as a testament to modern engineering prowess and Brazil’s strategic importance in the global mineral market, cementing its role as a critical maritime gateway.