The Misrata Free Zone announced the start of testing and trial operations for the project to renovate and upgrade the control system for the grain silos at the Free Zone’s port, in preparation for their first restart in more than 15 years.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the Free Zone explained that the project involved upgrading the control system using a “Siemens S7-1500 PLC,” upgrading the “WinCC” control and monitoring software, and connecting the system via an integrated network to all silo components, including grain extractors and air compressors, thereby ensuring operational integration, rapid response times, and improved performance efficiency.

It added that the development work also included upgrading the temperature and humidity measurement system, and the grain level measurement system inside the silo cells, as well as enabling operation and monitoring via “HMI” screens, which provides real-time monitoring of operational indicators and enhances the safe operation of the silos and the preservation of shipment quality throughout the storage period.

24-Hour Silo Operation

The Free Zone confirmed that the project represents a quantum leap in the port’s grain handling system, as it will enable 24-hour silo operation and reduce ship handling time by approximately 50% compared to before, thereby contributing to increased operational efficiency, faster cargo turnover, and greater port capacity for receiving and handling grain shipments.

It noted that operational trials were successfully conducted today by unloading the cargo of the vessel “KEMET STAR,” owned by Al-Shima Shipping Agency of Misrata, confirming that the operation proceeded smoothly and with high efficiency.