The Marine Transport of Coal and Coal Products from the Beluga Coal Fields of Alaska

摘要

The unique characteristics of the subbituminous Beluga coal deposits include low sulfur content and proximity to deep water navigation. Important markets for these deposits are expected to be developed in U.S. West Coast areas extending from Puget Sound to Southern California. The economics of mining, processing, and transport may favor use of this resource in the form of conventional dry bulk coal, methanol, or coal-oil mixture. Parametric feasibility studies of dry and liquid bulk carrier characteristics for operation between proposed terminals in Cook Inlet and the lower West Coast states indicate that lowest transportation costs will be obtained with restricted draft proportions, at service speeds generally in the 13 to 14 knot range. The adoption of self-unloading gear and coal-fired steam propulsion systems may prove economically advantageous for some of the voyages considered. The year-round feasibility of operation of large bulk-type vessels from Cook Inlet is generally accepted, based on existing experience with operations of conventional shipping at Anchorage, Drift River, and Nikiski. Modifications to conventional designs that may enhance winter operations include provision of greater-than-normal power margins, deep ballasting capability, superior maneuvering ability, and special mooring gear.