4 Loading Specific to Bulk Carriers

4.1 Guidance for loading/unloading sequences

4.1.1 Scope of application

The requirements given in [4] are applicable to bulk carriers of 150 m in length and above.

4.1.2 The typical loading/unloading sequences are to be developed paying due attention to the loading/unloading rate, the ballasting/deballasting capacity and the applicable strength limitations.

4.1.3 Typical loading and unloading sequences are to be prepared and submitted for approval by the builder.

4.1.4 The typical loading sequences as relevant are to include:

• Alternate light and heavy cargo load condition,
• Homogeneous light and heavy cargo load condition,
• Short voyage condition where the ship is loaded to maximum draught but with limited bunkers,
• Multiple port loading/unloading condition,
• Deck cargo condition,
• Block loading.

4.1.5 The loading/unloading sequences may be port specific or typical.

4.1.6 The sequence is to be built up step by step from commencement of cargo loading to reach full deadweight capacity. Each time the loading equipment changes position to a new hold defines a step. Each step is to be documented and submitted to the Society. In addition to longitudinal strength, the local strength of each hold is to be considered.

4.1.7 For each loading condition, a summary of all steps is to be included. This summary is to highlight the essential information for each step, such as:

• How much cargo is filled in each hold during the different steps,
• How much ballast is discharged from each ballast tank during the different steps,
• The maximum still water bending moment and shear force at the end of each step,
• The ship’s trim and draught at the end of each step.

Figure 1 : Loading Sequence Summary Form