Machine translation from English source
Sulfur is a cargo that will attack the ship's hull if proper measures are not taken before loading, namely:
The holds must be completely cleaned, washed and flushed with fresh water.
Having previously experienced unexpected corrosion damage, we ask technicians to be especially careful in all activities related to the supply of sulfur. In particular, technicians should check the moisture content of sulfur by taking daily readings using a hygrometer and keeping detailed records of the results.
Dry sulfur is harmless, but wet sulfur is extremely aggressive to bare metal. The lime coating acts as a physical barrier and neutralizes the acidity of the sulfur slurry.
Holds
The holds should be coated with a concentration of lime so that the lime acts as a buffer between the cargo and the hold bulkheads, hull, frames, etc.
In a number of tests carried out by general testing laboratories, it was found that the application of lime washing was most effective when the lime was mixed in a ratio of 2 parts water to 1 part lime, in terms of pumping and adhesion to bulkheads, etc.
It was recommended to use hydrated or slaked lime, although if this is not possible, energy limestone can be used. Any scratches in paintwork must be done well to provide a good barrier between the gray and bare steel. Holds must be completely dry before loading, and ventilation in dry climates must be maximized (certificates for seafarers).
The holds should be partially filled with lime to prevent contact of sulfuric acid with the Steel.
The loaded cargo contains a certain permissible amount of water, which will accumulate in the holds during navigation. Lime in the holds neutralizes contaminated water. It is advisable not to pump water using the ship's pumping installations unless absolutely necessary, since once the lime is removed, the holds will no longer be protected.
Under no circumstances should a ship's pumping installations be used to pump contaminated sour water after discharge when cleaning holds. Use only portable pumps for this task.
The ship shall have suitable equipment to coat the ship's sides, bulkheads, tanks, etc., in the cargo holds with a concentration of lime. The holds must be ready for inspection before loading. In the owners' experience, a portable submersible pump and a small hose outlet attached to a spray nozzle to spray lime on Steel have been used successfully.
Bulk sulfur is included in the list of flammable goods. For this reason, we insist that all cargo areas be kept free of dungeon or other debris.
In both the loading and unloading openings, to prevent sparks, you must ensure that no metal chains or slings are deployed.
Fires can occur when loading dry sulfur as a result of the accumulation of static electricity on the loading pipes. These fires can be extinguished by sulfur spraying or by using a fine spray of fresh water, and where possible a fresh water hose should always be available. The use of sea water should be avoided and only used if there is a danger to the vessel. Sea water can cause cargo damage and possible cargo claims. Some forms of iron sulfide are pyrophoric and may cause a fire near the top of the tank during draining. Such fires can also be extinguished by judicious use of a fine stream of fresh water.
Craftsmen should ensure that all equipment is ready before hand, including ladders, long-handled scrapers, a small hose and sufficient lime.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY SULFURIC ACID IN COAL CARGOES (certificates for seafarers)
There have been cases where steam-washed coal resulted in the formation of significant amounts of sulfuric acid, which subsequently led to structural damage to holds and bilge systems.
Therefore, we draw your attention to the IMO BC Code. Additionally, please ensure that the following precautions are taken.
Ask the shipper if he has coal with high sulfide content and if the coal is likely or may cause an acidic aspect.
Request coal analysis details, focusing on fire moisture content, sulfur content (get specifications in writing).
Examine the incoming coal carefully for any yellow crystals or spots.
Monitor for any significant changes in the size of coal supplied.
Look for coal 10-15 degrees above ambient temperature or signs of steam
emissions during loading.
If you have any suspicions, ask for an independent analysis (certificates for seafarers).
Take samples of the coal and any coal that is unusual in appearance.
Store samples in airtight plastic containers for future use.
If the supercargo is present, get his name, as well as the names of any other persons present (surveyors/movers, etc.).
See if coal is washed before loading.
Make sure the holds are dry before loading.
Make sure holds are properly sealed.
Observe the holds, check the drain for acidity and take samples (clean glass bottles) from time to time.
Try to obtain a sample of the coal before it is loaded and, if possible, obtain a sample of water or wet coal from the bottom layer.
When swimming, use only surface ventilation.
Temperature must be measured daily and recorded (certificates for seafarers).
Do not enter the holds.
