Sumitomo Powered Conveyors Keep Atlanta Airport Expansion Moving Ahead

Sumitomo Machinery Corporation of America has partnered with one of the nation's major conveyor manufacturers to ˜ move dirt. The $52.2 million dollar expansion of Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport includes construction and development of a new International Concourse and what is called the "5th Runway." The conveyor company engineered an Overland Conveyor System to move the earth that will provide the foundation for this massive expansion. 
In this 3-year project, the Overland Conveyor System will be used to move 25-30 million cubic yards of aggregate (rocks and dirt) that is being transferred from local quarries and pits to the construction site. This aggregate is being moved from as far as 4 miles away from the construction site, to provide the base build-up for a new terminal and a double runway for large airliners. 

A total of eighteen 500 HP motors coupled with Sumitomo's Paramax™ Speed Reducers drive the conveyor system. Sumitomo drive systems are known for their proven durability and reliable performance in rugged environments worldwide. 

Michael D. Johnson, Region Manager for Sumitomo Sales, said that the Atlanta Airport Construction team preferred an Overland Conveyor System for its cost-effectiveness and long term operational strengths. "The alternative method of moving such a massive amount of earth would be large, heavy dump trucks driving over public roads," said Johnson. "Needless to say, this Overland Conveyor System is not only saving hundreds of thousands of dollars over the course of 3 years, it will also allow the project to reclaim some of its equipment investment should it be used again." It is possible that at the conclusion of the Atlanta project, the Overland Conveyor System could find itself in service at yet another airport expansion project. Johnson noted that Sumitomo's exceptional performance, in both Paramax product strength and ability to meet a demanding delivery schedule, enabled this dynamic partnership with the conveyor designer and manufacturer.