- Moisture in bulk cargo can reduce stability and lead to capsizing.
- Shifting moisture in cargo can impair vessel stability.
- Compliance and moisture checks are crucial for safety.
In the maritime industry, the safe transport of bulk cargoes is critical, especially with respect to moisture-related risks like liquefaction and dynamic separation, reports Britannia P&I.
Understanding the risks of cargo liquefaction
A report from INTERCARGO recently highlighted that cargo liquefaction is a leading cause of fatalities at sea, responsible for over 60% of ship-related deaths despite accounting for less than 20% of all vessel casualties.
Liquefaction occurs when moisture in bulk cargo, such as mineral ores, increases to a point where the cargo behaves like a liquid under vibration or movement. This drastically reduces the ship’s stability, increasing the risk of capsizing. The phenomenon is often difficult to detect until it is too late, which makes it especially hazardous for vessels.
The recent update to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code introduced the term “dynamic separation,” which, while similar to liquefaction, occurs under different physical processes. Dynamic separation happens when moisture within the cargo moves, forming a slurry that impairs the ship’s stability as the cargo shifts. Both liquefaction and dynamic separation can lead to dangerous shifting of cargo, potentially capsizing a ship or causing severe structural damage.
Understanding these risks and the importance of adhering to the IMSBC Code is vital for ensuring the safety of bulk carrier operations. Compliance with the code, including correct cargo declarations and moisture level assessments, helps mitigate these risks and enhances ship safety.
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Source: Britannia P&I
