Key data
| Stowage factor | 0.50–1.20 m³/t (typical 0.75)17.7–42.4 ft³/t (typical 26.5) |
|---|---|
| Form | Bulk |
| IMSBC group | C Cargoes that neither liquefy nor carry a chemical hazard. |
| BCSN | METAL SCRAP |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Steel scrap is recycled ferrous metal – from shredded fragment to heavy melting scrap – shipped in bulk to steelworks. Its stowage factor varies widely, around 0.75 m3/t typically, and it is usually deadweight-limited. A Group C cargo, its concerns are physical handling and the risk of contaminants hidden in the mass.
Stowage & loading
Scrap is loaded by grab or electromagnet and worked to a reasonable trim, with the tank top protected against heavy, dropped pieces. The cargo is checked as far as practicable for dangerous contaminants – closed vessels, gas cylinders or worse – that can be hidden among genuine scrap.
Hazards & handling
The hazards are physical and contaminant-related: sharp, heavy, irregular pieces dangerous to personnel; dropped loads damaging the structure; and the real risk of explosives, closed containers or gas cylinders concealed in the mass. Oily turnings can also self-heat, so their condition is watched.
Carriage & discharge
The stable cargo needs little beyond sound stowage, though oily or turnings-rich parcels are watched for heating. Discharge is by grab or magnet; personnel keep clear of suspended loads, and the dirty residue is cleaned from holds on completion.
Key hazards
- Sharp, heavy, irregular pieces and dropped-load structural damage
- Hidden contaminants – closed vessels, cylinders or explosives
- Self-heating of oily, turnings-rich parcels
Loading precautions
- Protect the tank top and handle by grab or magnet with personnel clear
- Check as far as practicable for dangerous hidden contaminants
- Watch oily or turnings-rich parcels for self-heating
Stowage factors are indicative and vary with grade, origin, moisture and packing. Always verify against the shipper's cargo declaration and the applicable IMSBC Code schedule before fixing or loading. This is general information, not professional or safety advice.