Optimizing safety and efficiency of iron ore as bulk cargo
Rairo, Vincent (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025112429421
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025112429421
Tiivistelmä
The idea behind the study is to explore methods to improve safety and efficiency of transportation of iron ore transport as bulk cargo. The aim of the work was to determine the best practices and procedures to maintain compliance while minimizing operational and cargo risks including liquefaction, shifting, and structural over-stress. The study was conducted using a literature based approach obtaining information from i.a. International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, classification society guidelines and academic papers about logistics efficiency. The approach was based on a comparative analysis of regulatory requirements, ship design and operational procedures and monitoring practices applied in modern bulk shipping. These components were analyzed in terms of their interactions towards the safe transportation of iron ore cargo.
According to the research presentation, the most serious potential risks of iron ore transport were: Cargo instability; Uneven loading; Inadequate structural monitoring. The study showed that the implementation of IMSBC Code testing and documentation requirements, as well as real-time loading monitoring and better crew training could lead to a significant reduction in number of cargo liquefaction cases. Furthermore, implementation of digital monitoring systems and automated port technologies were found to improve not only the operational accuracy but also efficiency in loading and transporting. The combination of technical, procedural and digital solutions was identified as the best strategy to optimize iron ore transportation. Safe operation of iron ore was found to be based on continual monitoring, adherence to cargo moisture limits and structural load control.
According to the research presentation, the most serious potential risks of iron ore transport were: Cargo instability; Uneven loading; Inadequate structural monitoring. The study showed that the implementation of IMSBC Code testing and documentation requirements, as well as real-time loading monitoring and better crew training could lead to a significant reduction in number of cargo liquefaction cases. Furthermore, implementation of digital monitoring systems and automated port technologies were found to improve not only the operational accuracy but also efficiency in loading and transporting. The combination of technical, procedural and digital solutions was identified as the best strategy to optimize iron ore transportation. Safe operation of iron ore was found to be based on continual monitoring, adherence to cargo moisture limits and structural load control.