Liquefaction of Bauxite cargoes
Category: Cargo: dry Date: 14/03/2012 Area: Americas
We would like to advise Members that in the last few weeks there has been a reported increase in the number of cases involving the liquefaction of bauxite cargoes deriving from the Amazon bay region (especially Trombetas).
The precise cause for suchexcessive moisture content has not yet been determined but it is thought to be connected to the prevailing rainy season (the effects of which are exacerbated by the practice of some terminals to not suspend loading during periods of rain) and to the fact that the cargoes are not left in the storage areas long enough to drain.
Fortunately to date most of the issues that have derived from these incidents are mainly related to delays and extra costs with the discharge operations. We advise all Members who may be loading these cargoes to take necessary precautions including, if practical, a tripartite agreement for the carriage to ensure safety of crew, vessel, and cargo, as well as protection of marine environment.
For guidance on cargoes that are prone to liquefaction, Members should refer to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code and/or contact the Club.
Source of information: Brazmar Marine Services Ltda (as agents only) brazmar@brazmar.com
N.B.: All the above comes from the Shipowners’ Club
