Tata Steel installed an environment-friendly long pipe conveyor (LPC) at its open-cast coal mines at West Bokaro division in Ramgarh district of Jharkhand on Wednesday.

The facility, as part of endeavour to continually improve technology and drive productivity, was virtually inaugurated by Tata Steel chief executive officer and managing director T.V. Narendran.

Congratulating the entire team, Narendran said: “The implementation of best-in-class technologies and sustainable practices are critical success factors for mining operations. The LPC would improve the productivity and help in reducing the environmental footprint in coal logistics, significantly,”

In addition to the growth of technology in West Bokaro, the 4km LPC is an ambitious project of the company doing away with the 61-year-old mono cable and bi-cable ropeway system.

LPC will bring coal and by-products from washeries to the Chainpur railway siding by replacing the existing ropeway transportation system. The conveyor is driven by controlled start transmission drives, comprising a steel cord belt with fire-resistant properties. Maintenance staff and all equipment will be borne by two maintenance trolleys atop the conveyor. This pipe conveyor will not only have zero spillage but will also be noiseless and improve productivity in the West Bokaro Division.

The single unit can handle both coal and by-product grades and can carry 1200 tonnes per hour, making it much cheaper and safer than road and ropeway transport.

The enclosed structure will ensure there is no degradation of materials along the way.