Key data
| Stowage factor | 1.00–1.40 m³/t (typical 1.20)35.3–49.4 ft³/t (typical 42.4) |
|---|---|
| Form | Bulk |
| IMSBC group | C Cargoes that neither liquefy nor carry a chemical hazard. |
| Angle of repose | ~35 |
| BCSN | PETROLEUM COKE |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Petroleum coke is the solid carbon left after the heavy fractions of crude oil are processed, shipped as fuel and as feedstock for anodes. It comes as uncalcined 'green' coke and as calcined coke, with the green grade the more reactive of the two. Its stowage factor varies with grade and grind, placing it around the line between deadweight and measurement cargoes.
Stowage & loading
Petcoke is loaded by conveyor or grab and is notably dusty and abrasive, so dust control and care for handling gear matter from the outset. For uncalcined green coke the loading temperature is the key check: hot coke straight from production can continue to self-heat in the hold, so a parcel that is too warm is not accepted until it has cooled.
Hazards & handling
The everyday hazards are physical – heavy, clinging black dust that is a respiratory and housekeeping problem, and abrasion of coatings and equipment. The chemical concern is confined mainly to green coke, which can self-heat if loaded hot or stored badly before shipment; calcined coke is far less reactive. Residual hydrocarbons can also give the cargo an odour.
Carriage & discharge
Calcined coke is an undemanding carriage; green coke is monitored for temperature where there is any doubt about its condition on loading. Discharge is by grab or unloader, after which the pervasive black dust calls for thorough cleaning of holds, decks and surrounding areas to prevent contamination of later cargoes.
Key hazards
- Self-heating of uncalcined (green) coke if loaded hot or poorly stored before shipment
- Heavy, clinging dust that is a respiratory and contamination hazard
- Abrasion of holds, coatings and handling equipment
Loading precautions
- For green coke, confirm the loading temperature and refuse a parcel that is too warm
- Apply dust-control measures and protect adjacent areas from contamination
- Distinguish calcined from uncalcined coke, as their reactivity differs markedly
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.