Key data
| Stowage factor | 0.18–0.26 m³/t (typical 0.22)6.4–9.2 ft³/t (typical 7.8) |
|---|---|
| Form | Breakbulk |
| IMSBC group | n/a Not classified under the IMSBC Code (e.g. breakbulk or bagged goods). |
| Broken stowage | 15% |
ft³/t values are per metric tonne (1 m³/t ≈ 35.31 ft³/t). Stowage factors are indicative — see note below.
Description
Steel coils are a dense deadweight cargo that brings the ship down to her marks long before the holds are full. Although solid steel is far denser still, the as-stowed stowage factor is governed by how the round coils sit in the hold and the unavoidable void space around them. Planning therefore centres on weight distribution, tank-top strength and securing rather than cubic capacity.
Stowage & loading
Coils are normally stowed eye-to-the-side or eye-fore-and-aft depending on size and the lashing plan, bedded on dunnage and chocked or cradled to prevent rolling. Point loading on the tank top is a real concern given the concentrated weight, so the cargo is spread and dunnaged to keep within permissible tank-top loading, and heavy units are kept low and well distributed for stability.
Hazards & handling
The dominant risks are shifting of inadequately secured units and mechanical damage to the coils and the ship. Sweat and rusting threaten the steel where ventilation and dunnage are inadequate, so condition is recorded carefully. A pre-loading condition survey is standard, with any pre-existing rust, banding damage or distortion noted to protect the carrier against later claims.
Carriage & discharge
Securing is checked and re-tightened during the voyage as the lashings settle, and ventilation is managed to limit sweat without introducing salt-laden air. Discharge uses coil hooks, C-hooks or slings appropriate to the coil type, with care to avoid damaging the wraps. Dunnage and securing materials are cleared on completion and the holds inspected for residual damage.
Key hazards
- Shifting and rolling of inadequately secured coils
- Concentrated point loading on the tank top
- Sweat and rusting where ventilation or dunnage is inadequate
Loading precautions
- Commission a pre-loading condition survey and record existing damage
- Bed, chock or cradle coils and confirm tank-top loading limits
- Agree the lashing plan and re-check securing during the voyage
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.