A modern cargo hose is a work of art that, unless misused, can be counted on to keep the cargo contained. Nonetheless, because it is the weakest link in the cargo containment and transfer system, proper handling and use of hoses is critical.
The way a hose is used and handled varies depending on the type of hose and the manufacturer. Metallic, composite, PTFE (polytetrafluorethylene), and polypropylene hoses are the most common varieties.
On board chemical tankers, cargo hoses are regularly utilised for loading and discharge of cargo at a terminal, cargo transfers between ships, and tank cleaning. A ship should have proper manufacturer’s literature on board that describes the hoses carried and any limitations in their use.
Cargo hose certification, marking, and testing
The cargo hoses of a ship must be tested and approved as required. The MCI Codes specify the minimal specifications for the building and testing of cargo hoses on ships. All cargo hoses must be constructed to withstand a bursting pressure of at least 5 times the highest pressure the hose will be exposed to during cargo transfer activities. New lengths of cargo hose should be hydrostatically tested at tolerable temperatures towards a pressure not below IX times its definite supreme working pressure but not in excess of 2/5th of its overflowing pressure before being put into use.
A manufacturer’s test certificate will include the hose’s construction method, performance range, and nominal dimensions. Hoses should be visually inspected on a regular basis and pressure tested at least once a year while in service. The findings of the tests should be kept in a cargo hose condition log book.
Cargo hoses must be labelled with their maximum operating pressure, which must be at least 10 bar gauge. Hoses used to transport goods at temperatures other than ambient should be labelled with the appropriate minimum and maximum service temperature ranges.
Compatibility with cargo
Hoses used to transport chemical liquids and vapours during cargo handling should be suitable with the chemical’s nature and temperature. Any restrictions imposed by the hose manufacturer on cargo qualities and temperatures should be adhered to at all times.
Handling, connection, and application
A hose should always be raised and carried when being transported around the ship. It should not be pulled over ship fittings like piping or walkways, rolled in a way that twists the hose’s body, or hoisted on a crane or derrick with a single wire strop around its mid-length. Hot surfaces, such as steam pipes, should not be permitted to come into touch with hoses.
Because cargo transfer tubes might contribute to cargo contamination, they should be thoroughly cleaned between shipments.
Prior to tendering Notice of Readiness for loading, a comprehensive inspection by a senior officer is required to assure cargo tank readiness.
When loading high-specification commodities, floating hose maintenance in Malaysia cargo lines are the most important consideration. It is critical that cargo lines, drains, and dead ends, as well as cargo tanks, be well cleaned.
