Açu Port’s Oil Terminal (T-OIL) carried out today its first oil transshipment operation. This operation refers to the contract signed in June 2015 with BG E&P Brasil Ltda., a subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell.

Transshipment involving the Nova Spirit and SKS Sinni vessels is taking place normally and all safety requirements are adopted by the terminal. Both vessels are expected to be unmoored within 36 hours.

At T-OIL, transshipment happens in an area protected by breakwater, enabling safe and quick procedures, efficiency and cost savings for clients, increasing the competitiveness of Brazilian crude. One ship is moored and the other one stands alongside, both surrounded by contention barriers preventing spills at sea. This type of operation offers greater safety in transshipment all year long.

Currently, T-OIL has 20.5 meters in depth and may initially receive Suezmax vessels. By the end of 2017, its depth will be expanded to up to 25 meters. With more depth, Açu Port will be able to receive at T-OIL Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC), for up to 320,000 tons. The North and Central berths on the terminal will be prepared for transshipment between VLCC and SuezMax ships, while the South berth will only offer transshipment between SuezMax ships.