Feasibility Study of Burnside Terminal – Mississippi, USA

PMI formed part and managed the professional project team which was appointed by Trafigura to assist in the feasibility study of the existing Burnside bulk commodities facility located on mile 169.5 of the Mississippi River, USA.

The professional team consisted mainly of PMI, DRA Minerals and RLH Consulting Engineers.

PMI was appointed and completed the following tasks

• Determine Client’s requirements

• Data gathering & site visits

• Coordinate inspections and detail investigations

• Preliminary evaluation

• Conceptual engineering

• Estimation of refurbishment costs

• Recommendations and reporting.

Background

The Burnside facility was constructed in 1956 and has been closed since January 2008. PMI assisted Trafigura in determining the feasibility of converting the old facility into a new modern coal trading facility.

The facility was previously used to import bulk products, mainly bauxite for the Ormet Alumina refinery and export Alumina by barge.

The Burnside facility is well positioned for coal trading. Trafigura is planning to import coal on barges via the Mississippi River and then, off loaded, stockpiled and exported via oceangoing Panamax vessels.

Results

The facility is in a poor condition and extensive refurbishment works are required to get it operational in a safe manner.

Five upgrade options were presented with estimated throughputs, capital costs and implementation times associated with each refurbishment option.

One of the main construction risks are flooding and work associated close to the Mississippi River bank.

The study was completed within budget and on time.