UPM Pulp Matters 1/2023

PULP FAC T

The new direct connection from Uruguay to global markets increases efficiency and supply security.

Still the trucks are only a short term solution and everybody at UPM Uruguay is eager to put pulp on the rails. “Rail is the most suitable transport mode for big volumes from, for example, economic, environmental and safety perspectives,” Rey says. ALL ABOARD THE PULP TRAIN As it turns out, the rebuilding of the 273-kilometre rail connection leading from Paso de los Toros to the capital is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Uruguay’s history. While UPM was very active in initiating the revamping of the railway, the connection will be state-owned and open to other users as well, including passenger trains. As the government is finalising the railway connection, UPM is ready to shift logistics from road to rail – but only gradually. “Once the rail option is available, we will start to utilise it little by little, maintaining a good balance in logistics operations.” Eventually UPM expects that it will be running six daily trains, each carrying 1,664 tonnes of pulp. Rey adds that the terminal is certainly “ready for rail” with five rail tracks leading directly to it. Two tracks are used for

pulp, one for chemicals, while the other two are available for shunting and reserve use.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Another piece of the puzzle is, naturally, the local workforce. Rey reports that some employees from the terminal went to UPM’s Fray Bentos pulp mill to learn the ropes and came back with valuable knowledge that they could pass on to others. “Also, we’ve brought instructors from Fray Bentos here to support our new crew, and we’re using new training tools, such as crane simulators, to get our people ready.” While learning how to handle chemicals, for example, water was used in the training as a substitute before the real thing. “We have learned the industrial way of doing things, with focus on automation and safety.” Eager to hit the ground running, Rey believes that all the planning and preparation is about to pay off very well indeed. “There are always some surprises along the way, but we’re ready to start running the show.”

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PUL P MAT TERS 01/2023