Bauxite is listed in the IMSBC Code as a Group C cargo
The ‘A’ rated 170 million GT North P&I Club has warned shipowners carrying bauxite aluminium ore cargoes that they have the potential to liquefy at sea despite being listed in the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC) as a low-risk ‘Group C’ cargo.
According to North’s Risk Management Executive Colin Gillespie, entered vessels have recently experienced a number of instances where bauxite cargoes from Brazil and Indonesia have exhibited the liquefaction characteristics of Group A cargoes. Typically the cargoes involved contained a large proportion of fines.
‘Fortunately none of the incidents have resulted in losses to vessels or crew members. However, as seen in high-profile incidents involving liquefaction of nickel and iron ore cargoes, the resulting loss of vessel stability can be fatal,’ he says.
While bauxite is listed in the IMSBC Code as a Group C cargo, meaning it is not known to liquefy or possess a chemical hazard, this categorisation only applies to cargoes that fall within the very specific description included in the Code. According to the Code, bauxite must have a moisture content of 0-10% to be classified as Group C. It must also consist of 70-90% lumps with a size of 2.5-500 mm and 10-30% powder. Where any of these properties are not met, then the requirements of Section 1.3 of the Code for cargoes not listed should be followed.
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Source: The North P&I Club
