When Chesterfield, Mo.-based Aegis Metal Framing relocated its structural-steel-framing facility to Edenton, N.C., it was able to receive its raw material via barge shipment, thereby reducing the diesel-fuel consumption required for inbound freight. Each barge load contains 2,500 tons (2268 metric tons) of steel coil. The 400-mile (644-km) trip to Edenton from Yonges Island, S.C., requires about 2,000 gallons (7570 L) of diesel fuel, or about 1 gallon (3.8 L) of fuel to push 1 ton (0.9 metric ton) of material. To transport that same volume of steel via truck would require more than 20,000 gallons (75700 L) of diesel. Given the combined steel usage by Aegis Metal Framing and its parent company, MiTek Industries, at the Edenton plant, diesel consumption will be reduced by about 400,000 gallons (1.5 million L) this year, reducing energy costs and the company’s carbon footprint. For more information, visit www.aegismetalframing.com.