Fully automated ship unloading system for sand and gravel

At the Albert Canal in Geel, Deprez delivered a showcase of logistical efficiency for Adams: a fully automated ship unloading system for sand and gravel with an impressive capacity of 600 tons per hour. The project perfectly reflects what Deprez stands for: intelligent, robust, and fully integrated bulk handling and storage installations.

From ship to storage box in one smooth line

The grab crane scoops sand directly from the ship into a spacious hopper. From there, the material is transported via a lift conveyor and a transport conveyor, built inside a 30-meter-long enclosed pipe, across the unloading quay and the railway to Adams’ site.

A 140-meter-long storage conveyor then deposits the sand and gravel into the designated storage boxes. In total, ten storage boxes are provided, each with a capacity of 2,000 to 2,500 tons and 5-meter-high walls. The entire system is designed to unload around 1 million tons of aggregates per year.

“Adams is a leading recycling company facing the need for a smooth ship unloading process. The system had to operate sustainably, safely, and autonomously.” – Wences Delanghe, Project Manager at Deprez

Continuity during construction

The project required exceptional coordination. Adams’ site remained fully operational throughout the installation. With only two technicians on site, the entire assembly was carried out in phases without interrupting daily operations.

“From a planning perspective, this was one of our most challenging installations,” says Wences Delanghe. “We had to consider a busy site, limited space, and the obligation to keep the bike path along the canal open at all times.”

Power, precision, and autonomy

The installation is fully automated but can also be operated manually via remote control, allowing the operator to closely monitor and adjust the unloading process.

A traffic light signal communicates with the crane operator when the system is ready for new loads. The crane can handle 500 to 600 tons per hour at full capacity — enough to unload a 3,000-ton ship in just 5 to 6 hours. This roughly equals 120 truckloads of 25 tons.

Designed for safety and sustainability

The 24-meter-long, 3-meter-wide enclosed pipe construction, weighing 20 tons in total, guarantees dust-free and safe handling, even at publicly accessible quays. Extra attention was given to safety and anti-climb measures, as the system is adjacent to a popular cycling route. The system also includes an integrated weighing function for precise recording of unloaded quantities.

Speed pays off

For Adams Polendam, the new installation represents a significant gain in efficiency. Fewer manual movements, shorter unloading times, and an optimized storage structure reduce ship turnaround time, resulting in lower handling costs. With the Deprez installation, the entire process now runs smoothly, safely, and with precision.