ContiTech, together with its partner Techmi, has recently built the longest conveyor belt in Europe which went into operation at the Vicat cement factory in Montalieu, France. To bring in limestone from the quarry 6.2 km away, Vicat required a cost-effective solution and launched a project to realise its transport needs by conveyor belt. They engaged Techmi, the French expert in bulk handling to build up the entire conveyor system. Techmi compiled in 2012 a quotation including specific requirements concerning the belt. In 2013, ContiTech became Techmi?s strategic partner.
The endless belt is about 13 km long and does a twist and turn on the head and tail of the system to run parallel to the loaded belt on the return. Another advantage is that limestone residues remain on the returning belt rather than falling underneath it. This makes the system considerably easier to clean and is an advantage not just for Vicat but also for the environment.