The new sulphur terminal in Mussalo – the extensive and technically demanding project was completed on schedule 

Rauanheimo’s new sulphur terminal at the Port of Mussalo in Kotka was completed on schedule in August 2025. In particular, the terminal serves Yara’s granulated elemental sulphur handling and rail transport. The project is a significant investment in efficiency, safety and environmental responsibility, strengthening Rauanheimo’s position as Finland’s leading bulk material handler. 

Modern conveyor system and flexible operation 

The new conveyor system allows sulphur to be unloaded from ships directly via mobile hoppers and conveyors to the warehouse and on to the train loading station. The solution is not tied to a single unloading point, which increases operational reliability and increases the efficiency of the logistics chain. The system consists of six fixed conveyor lines that guide the material flow accurately and safely. 

The design, manufacture and installation of the equipment was carried out as a turnkey solution in collaboration with LNK Industries. Kreate acted as the main contractor and Sweco as the designer. The project started in summer 2023 and progressed in stages without significant delays – a testament to the team’s commitment and careful project management. 

Safety and responsibility first 

The terminal’s structures and storage facilities meet strict safety and environmental requirements. The warehouse has comprehensive sprinkler and fire alarm systems, ATEX-compliant electrical equipment and sulphur dioxide measuring equipment. The project required a chemical safety permit from Tukes and an environmental permit from the Regional State Administrative Agency for Southern Finland. 

Behind the project – Timo Taavitsainen 

The project leader Timo Taavitsainen was responsible for the project as a whole and completed it within the mutually agreed timeframe. Under his leadership, the multi-stage construction and installation project remained under control from start to finish. 

“This has been an exceptionally challenging and rewarding project for us. We have built new infrastructure in the middle of a functioning port without interrupting daily traffic. This required tight coordination and trust from all of the parties involved,” Taavitsainen says. 

“I am particularly proud of the way the experts and contractors from different countries worked together seamlessly. The outcome improves the customer’s security of supply and significantly reduces the environmental burden.” 

Towards more efficient and cleaner logistics 

The Mussalo sulphur terminal is an example of how modern technology combined with long-term development work result in a practical solution. The terminal will strengthen Rauanheimo’s position in Finnish bulk logistics, bring the desired increase in volumes and support our customer’s security of supply in the coming years. 

“This project shows that we can combine practical know-how with technological advances – for the benefit of our customers and the environment,” Taavitsainen concludes.