Petroleum coke (petcoke) is a by-product of the oil refining process; it has a variety of uses in the manufacturing process of steel, aluminium, cement and an important component in the production of manufactured smokeless fuels.

The petcoke that the Port of Tyne is handling is fuel grade, producing virtually no ash when burned. From its manufacturing facility near Durham, Oxbow now produces circa 100,000 tonnes of high quality briquettes for use on stoves, cookers and open fires, across the UK and Ireland.

Alasdair Kerr, Commercial Director - Port Services Port of Tyne, said: “The Port of Tyne has diversified its bulk cargo operations to handle a wide range of commodities for customers from energy producers to recycling companies.

“This is the start of regular shipments for Oxbow and we are delighted that we have been able to work with them to add value to their business.”

Mike Cusick, Managing Director Oxbow, said: “We have a global reputation for sourcing quality fuels throughout the world, and now that we are working with the Port of Tyne we can continue to get our products to market quickly, further increase efficiencies, and we have reduced road miles. It is a great solution for us. The Port of Tyne has an important role to play in our future success and growth.”