SEPT-ILES MULTI PURPOSE WHARF COMPLEX

The Port of Sept-Îles  (Seven-Islands) despite its remote location, is the largest port (as measured by tonnage of cargo) in Canada handling over 30 million tons of cargo per year with an emphasis on raw materials.

The vast mineral and energy resources of Northern Quebec are beginning to be harnessed as part of a strategic development plan.  A major impediment to this plan is the limited transportation infrastructure of this very remote and harsh region.  As part of this strategy, the Government of Canada decided to make a major investment in the upgrading and modernization of the Port of Sept-Îles.

"Low cost, high performance hot-dip galvanizing fit the bill perfectly."

This large-scale project was a challenge in many respects.  This new loading structure will accommodate the worlds largest ships loading up to 8,000 tons per hour!  The completed pier reaches well over a quarter mile into the Gulf and the wharf itself is also well over a quarter mile in length.

The depth of technical knowledge the galvanizer had permitted them to make compelling presentations to decision makers that helped cement the decision to hot-dip galvanize.  Another important factor is the large size of the galvanizing baths which minimize the need for redesign of large steel sections.

The use of hot-dip galvanizing here was intensive, totaling more than 5,000 tons including all structural steel, rebar, and everything else from bearing plates to railings and ladders.  The remote location and harsh environment of the port make durability and long service life a must.  The high cost of labor in such locations only improves the competitive position of galvanizing. Low cost, high performance hot-dip galvanizing fit the bill perfectly.

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