Our experienced team are always available to assist with your global inspection and analysis requirements.
Our experienced team is always available to assist you with your global inspection and analysis requirements.
Our expert inspectors can ensure that your cargo does not exceed the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML).
Solid bulk cargoes, such as metal concentrates, may appear to be in a relatively dry granular state when loaded, however, they may contain sufficient moisture to become fluid under the stimulus of compaction and vibration that occurs during a voyage. The resulting cargo shift can be sufficient to capsize the vessel.
Cargoes that contain a certain proportion of small particles and a certain amount of moisture may liquefy when the moisture content exceeds the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML). In the resulting viscous fluid state, cargo may flow more easily, increasing the risk of the vessel capsizing.
It is therefore vital to know before loading if the material is safe to transport by ship and to provide mariners transporting the cargo with an accurate TML and moisture content. The TML is determined by sampling the cargo appropriately and applying one of the IMO-approved test methods.
AHK has many years of experience in the determination of the TML of metal concentrates and other bulk-bearing commodities. Throughout our Group network, there is a high level of expertise in conducting these tests. All analysts are trained to the highest standard, with the UK Group Headquarters operating a regular monitoring programme, which ensures the maintenance of rigorous quality standards.
For over 30 years, we have been directly involved with and acted as a consultant towards improving this test. Throughout our Group laboratories, the flow table method has been developed following the IMSBC Code 2013 for solid bulk cargoes, including graphical validation.
Five of our worldwide locations now cover the scope of Flow Moisture Point / Transportable Moisture Limit testing for Solid Bulk Cargoes by all three industry-recognised tests – Flow Table, Penetration and Proctor-Fagerberg.
We have developed expertise in these approved methods for compliance with the IMSBC code. The Proctor-Fagerberg method includes all IMO-approved versions. The ability to offer this service, utilising all three recognised methods, allows us to carry out specific testing that covers a broader range of particle sizes. The ISO 12742:2007 method is available on request.
Speak to an AHK expert today to ensure your cargo is safe to transport.
Our experienced team are always available to assist with your global inspection and analysis requirements.
