Bulk Materials Transportation: What is Rail Car Veneering?
In the search for enhancing operational efficiency and environmental sustainability, companies within the mining and bulk materials handling sectors are continuously seeking out more innovative solutions.
Their goal is to minimise product loss and the carbon footprint for everyone involved. A solution known for its effectiveness and simplicity is rail car veneering.
This blog will answer the question of what rail car veneering is, how it can benefit you and highlight the pivotal role it plays in aligning those in the heavy industrial sectors with Australia with the stringent government regulations on dust control and bulk materials handling transportation.
What is Rail Car Veneering?
Rail car veneering refers to the application of a fine, sprayable coating to the surface of bulk ore materials being transported in open rail cars. This coating is designed to form a crust-like surface veneer, effectively securing the ore beneath and preventing material lift-off during transit. The process is effective at minimising environmental pollution and costly ore loss while enabling compliance with applicable dust control regulations.
How is The Veneer Applied?
Rainstorm has developed an automated and customisable Rail Car Veneering System for the application of its GluonTM water-based polymer emulsion product.
The veneering system is positioned track-side with a spray rig suspended over the track so that the train can pass directly under it. Then, programmed to the specific parameters of the job (car length, speed, type of ore etc) GluonTM is automatically and uniformly sprayed over the surface of loose ore as the train passes beneath the rig. No waste with no spray between cars. Upon application, GluonTM effectively forms a light seal on the ore’s surface effectively preventing dust from being carried off by the wind during rail transport at speed. The durability and strength of this veneer are paramount, ensuring it remains effective until the material safely arrives at its intended destination.
The Benefits of Rail Car Veneering For The Environment
While the primary advantage of ore veneering for transport is the prevention of costly ore loss, the process also has tangible environmental and operational benefits.
Reducing Dust Emissions
By significantly lowering the amount of dust released into the air along the entire transit line, rail car veneering directly curtails several forms of pollution. Primarily:
- Reduced Air Pollution: Pre-transport veneering of bulk materials prevents the formation of airborne dust, benefiting both the environment and any local communities adjacent to transport routes
- Reduced Water Pollution: By preventing dust from reaching waterways, this technique helps protect aquatic life and delicate natural aquatic ecosystems.
Promoting Long-Term Ecological Preservation
This method of dust control demonstrates a commitment to investing in technologies and methods that safeguard ecosystems for future generations, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to ecologically considerate industrial operations.
How Does Rail Car Veneering Help With Regulatory Compliance?
Any heavy industry that engages in bulk materials handling or transportation is held up to rigorous environmental regulations that exist to safeguard natural resources and the public health of persons working and living in nearby industries. Within these regulations are meticulously outlined acceptable standards for air quality and, with it, strict limits on dust generation.
When combined with other proven on-site solutions offered by Rainstorm, adherence to ever-tightening dust control regulations is aided by the rail car veneering process.
Schedule a Consultation with Rainstorm Today
As a result of engineering innovation and proactive sustainable practices, rail car veneering is a pivotal key to the heavy industrial sector, especially with bulk materials handling and transportation.
Whether you’re looking for a more cost-effective approach to your dust control or just how our ore treatment and transport solutions can help you, get in touch with us here at Rainstorm.
With over 30 years of field experience, we have the expertise to offer you on-site knowledge when you schedule a consultation with one of our skilled technicians. Not only will our recommendations meet your operational needs but also set you on the path to a more carbon-neutral future.
