Lime Powder for cargo hold preparation before loading salt

Lime Powder for cargo hold preparation before loading salt

Ready stock at Mumbai, Kandla, Kolkata, Chennai, Vizag, Fujairah, Muscat. Buy Lime Powder in BULK from us for CARGO HOLD PREPARATION.

Lime Powder for Cargo Hold Preparation Before Loading Salt

When it comes to bulk shipping of salt and other hygroscopic cargoes, proper cargo hold preparation is not just best practice—it’s a critical requirement. Among the most widely used methods for preparing the cargo hold before loading salt is the application of lime powder. This inexpensive yet highly effective material acts as a protective barrier against corrosion, moisture, and contamination, ensuring the integrity of both the cargo and the vessel.

Why Prepare the Cargo Hold Before Loading Salt?

Salt is a highly corrosive and moisture-absorbing material. When loaded directly into a cargo hold that hasn't been properly treated, it can:

• Accelerate corrosion of the ship’s internal steel structures.

• Draw moisture from the air or any residues present, leading to clumping and cargo degradation.

• Cause contamination if the hold wasn’t adequately cleaned after the previous cargo.

Preparing the cargo hold ensures compliance with international maritime regulations and reduces operational risks, insurance claims, and downtime for cleaning.

Role of Lime Powder in Hold Preparation

1. Moisture Barrier

Lime powder, primarily hydrated lime (Ca(OH)₂), acts as a desiccant. It absorbs residual moisture from the hold surfaces, minimizing the chance of salt drawing in that moisture and clumping or dissolving during transit.

2. Corrosion Prevention

When lime powder is applied to the cleaned and dried steel surfaces of the cargo hold, it creates an alkaline protective layer. This layer neutralizes acids and suppresses rust formation, helping extend the life of the vessel.

3. Visual Indicator of Cleanliness

Lime leaves a visible white coating on the hold’s surface, which helps inspectors confirm that the hold was thoroughly cleaned and treated. This transparency builds confidence with charterers and surveyors.

How to Apply Lime Powder

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Thorough Cleaning: Start by sweeping and washing down the cargo hold to remove remnants of previous cargo. Use high-pressure water jets if needed.

2. Drying: Ensure the hold is completely dry. Moisture will compromise the effectiveness of the lime.

3. Application of Lime Powder:

   • Use manual spraying methods or mechanical blowers to distribute lime powder.

   • A typical dosage is 100 to 300 grams per square meter, depending on the condition of the hold and expected voyage duration.

4. Uniform Coverage: Ensure all surfaces—floors, walls, and frames—are evenly coated.

5. Inspection: Surveyors may be invited to verify cleanliness and lime application before loading.

Precautions During Lime Application

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Lime is caustic. Use gloves, goggles, masks, and coveralls during application.

• Avoid Lime Dust Contamination: After application, keep the hold closed to prevent the wind from blowing lime into the surrounding environment.

• Ventilation: Allow proper ventilation before personnel re-enter the treated hold.

Benefits of Using Lime Powder

1. Cost-effective and readily available
2. Easy to apply with minimal training
3. Reduces vessel downtime due to cleaning
4. Enhances safety by preventing cargo contamination
5. Complies with maritime inspection requirements

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