This multi-year project involved extensive field programs and 3-D numerical modelling of tidal hydrodynamics and sediment transport, including ship effects, to develop a sediment management program to minimize dredging volumes and related downtime at Vale’s Pier IV export facility in Brazil.

Project Highlights

In 2017 Vale completed construction of their $1.77 billion Pier IV iron ore terminal with an export capacity of 230 million tonnes/year consisting of two berths that accommodate large vessels with loaded drafts from 18 to 23 m. Between 2010 and 2017 Baird was retained by Vale to develop design for capital and maintenance dredging associated with this terminal construction. The site has a 7m tidal range with strong tidal currents (up to 2.5 m/s), and 3 to 8m high migrating sand waves through the berth area and frequent large submarine slope failures.

Baird completed extensive 3-D numerical modelling of tides and sediment transport including piles and ship effects supported by a variety of field measurements and daily high-resolution bathymetric surveys, using an advanced 3-D imaging system. Baird’s involvement resulted in reduced capital and maintenance dredging requirements by a factor of more than 10. Baird were also integrally involved in assisting Vale in obtaining permits for dredging and offshore dumping supported by detailed numerical modeling of dredging impacts, dumping impacts and long-term stability of the disposal site.