Transport

Transporting aggregates to where it is needed is one of the greatest challenges facing the quarrying industry. As issues such as traffic congestion, pollution and road noise become evermore important; Lafarge has taken the initiative to seek alternative ways to transport its products.

Perhaps the most important element of this strategy is the company's use of the rail networks. The company's rail operations cover four major quarries running more than 200 wagons to 15 distribution depots across the country. Lafarge's innovative 'Self Discharge Train' (SDT) enables bulk aggregate to be delivered quickly and efficiently across the UK. The SDT comprises 120 trucks connected by a conveyor, and four discharge cars. Each car features a boom which can unload aggregate up to 13 metres from the car without impeding an adjacent track. The SDT system halves the time it takes to deliver new track ballast. For more information on the Self-Discharging Train, click here.

To view a video showing how the SDT can be used please click here.

Another way to transport aggregates is via Britain's canal network and a number of Lafarge sites make use of canals to reduce pressure on the country's roads.
 
When transportation by road is the only option, the company adopts various initiatives designed to ensure distribution is as efficient as possible.