Atlas Energy Solutions, a Texas-based oil field company, has unveiled the longest conveyor belt in America, stretching 42 miles across the oil fields of the southwest U.S. Named “The Dune Express,” the conveyor belt transports millions of tons of sand for hydraulic fracturing at a speed of 10 mph.
The belt was designed to address the inefficiencies and dangers of transporting sand by truck, which is a common sight in the oil-rich Permian Basin. CEO John Turner highlighted the risks associated with massive trucks moving industrial goods and the long delivery process involved.
The innovative conveyor belt comes with a freight capacity of 13 tons and was built to bypass traffic and move alongside it. The company, which recently went public, invested $400 million in the construction of this massive machine to streamline hydraulic fracturing production.
While the belt has faced some environmental concerns as it cuts through a large oil patch, it aims to reduce traffic on highways and improve safety in the region. The sand is primarily sold for fracking operations and distributed to companies in need.
Despite environmentalists’ concerns about increased drilling activity and potential habitat disruptions for endangered species, local officials see the conveyor belt as a positive development due to its potential to reduce traffic and accidents on nearby highways.
The company expects the conveyor belt to operate at full capacity around the clock later this year, with remote operation capabilities and a focus on maintenance to keep it running smoothly and consistently.
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