From design to pre-assembly: the Eco Hopper

The Eco Hopper is a large receiving hopper with a capacity of 165 m³, equipped with various dust-reduction systems and designed to unload ships more cleanly and efficiently. A crane with a grab bucket deposits the material into the hopper, after which it is transferred via conveyor belts into trucks or other transport lines. Thanks to four wheel sets, each with two tyres, the machine is fully mobile and self-propelled.

Six engineers, one machine

For a major project such as the Eco Hopper, everything starts with layout engineering: smartly planning and structuring the design in advance. In this phase we jointly define the machine’s requirements and break it down into logical sections. The layout engineer first positions these sections in a single main model, quickly making it clear how the machine will take shape.

Because of the size of this project, six engineers are involved and it has been divided into different sections so that each could develop their own part. The layout engineer not only maintains an overview but also coordinates collaboration, ensures that all components fit together perfectly and intervenes where necessary, making sure the complete design comes together as one whole.

Robbert, the layout engineer for this project, says: “The Eco Hopper is one of the largest machines I have ever worked on. The scale of this project also brings organisational challenges that we need to address already during the engineering phase. With our relatively small team we are creating something enormous.”

From model to production hall

Once the 3D model is complete, the engineering team supplies the full drawing package to the production hall. Work preparation then ensures that all individual components reach the welders so that everything can be welded together, and the assembly drawings enable the fitters to start the final build.

Close cooperation with the customer

For projects of this size we hold weekly online meetings with the customer to discuss progress. In addition, site visits are scheduled to inspect the location where the machine will be installed, and the customer is always welcome to follow production progress in Biervliet.

Pre-assembly in Biervliet

During pre-assembly our technicians put together the components designed earlier. Already in the engineering phase maximum transport dimensions were taken into account, ensuring that the parts can be transported to the customer without issues. Only on site are all components brought together.

In Biervliet the entire mobile section is already assembled and extensively tested, including driving, steering and jacking. This approach makes final assembly at the customer’s site much faster and more efficient. The accompanying photos show how this giant machine grows step by step from concept to reality.

Robbert: “This project contains a lot of technology that contributes to a clean, healthy and sustainable working environment at the customer’s site. What I find truly special is that we produce this entire project in Biervliet. I’m looking forward to witnessing the testing on site and seeing the product run over the conveyor for the first time.”