Key data
| Stowage factor | 0.30–0.40 m³/t (typical 0.33)10.6–14.1 ft³/t (typical 11.7) |
|---|---|
| Form | Bulk |
| IMSBC group | C Cargoes that neither liquefy nor carry a chemical hazard. |
| Angle of repose | ~35 |
| BCSN | CHROME ORE |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Chrome ore, or chromite, is a heavy ore shipped for ferrochrome and chemical production. At around 0.33 m3/t it is one of the densest dry cargoes, strongly deadweight-limited. Its handling is dominated by that density – the weight packed into a small volume – and by its dust.
Stowage & loading
The ore is loaded by grab or conveyor and trimmed reasonably level. Because so much weight sits in little space, loading is planned to respect tank-top strength and to avoid overstressing the structure, and the low stow leaves the holds far from full when deadweight is reached.
Hazards & handling
The principal concerns are structural and stability-related: concentrated weight can overstress the tank top if poorly distributed, and a low, dense stow affects the ship's stability and motion. The ore is dusty in handling, calling for dust control, and is abrasive to equipment.
Carriage & discharge
Weight distribution and hull stress are the carriage concerns rather than the cargo's condition, which is stable. Discharge is by grab; the dense ore is worked steadily, dust is controlled, and the abrasive residue is cleaned from holds and equipment on completion.
Key hazards
- Tank-top overstress from concentrated weight if poorly distributed
- Stability and motion effects of a low, very dense stow
- Dust and abrasion during handling
Loading precautions
- Plan loading to respect tank-top strength and weight distribution
- Trim to spread the load and protect the structure
- Apply dust control and protect equipment from abrasion
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.