Difference between revisions of "Iron ore (fines)"

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{{Infobox_Miscellaneous
 
{{Infobox_Miscellaneous
 
| image                              = Iron ore (fines).jpg
 
| image                              = Iron ore (fines).jpg
| origin                              = Russia, Brazil, China, Australia, India and the U.S.A.
+
| origin                              = Russia, Brazil, China, Australia, India and the U.S.A.<br>
 
| stowage factor                      = Varying largely; several iron ore products are classified as heavy bulk cargo, which means that due to their dense structure overstressing of tank tops or ship's structures can occur in case improperly loaded and or distributed over a ships hold.
 
| stowage factor                      = Varying largely; several iron ore products are classified as heavy bulk cargo, which means that due to their dense structure overstressing of tank tops or ship's structures can occur in case improperly loaded and or distributed over a ships hold.
 
| humidity and moisture              = Various
 
| humidity and moisture              = Various
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The principle ores of iron are Hematite, (70% iron) and Magnetite, (72% iron). Taconite is a low-grade iron ore, containing up to 30% Magnetite and Hematite.<br><br>
 
The principle ores of iron are Hematite, (70% iron) and Magnetite, (72% iron). Taconite is a low-grade iron ore, containing up to 30% Magnetite and Hematite.<br><br>
  
==Application==
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==Shipment / Storage==
Almost all of the iron ore that is mined is used for making steel. Raw iron by itself is not as strong and hard as needed for construction and other purposes. So, the raw iron is alloyed with a variety of elements (such as tungsten, manganese, nickel, vanadium, chromium) to strengthen and harden it, making useful steel for construction, [[automobiles]], and other forms of transportation such as trucks, trains and train tracks.<br><br>
 
  
While the other uses for iron ore and iron are only a very small amount of the consumption, they provide excellent examples of the ingenuity and the multitude of uses that man can create from our natural resources.<br><br>
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The carriage of most iron ore products in bulk form is subject to the provisions of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC-Code). <br><br>
 +
The code requires the shipper of such bulk cargoes to issue a cargo declaration to the carrier. Such a cargo declaration should include the appropriate information to enable the carrier to take the necessary precautions for proper stowage and carriage of the cargo concerned. A standard form for this information has been developed and the IMSBC-code should be consulted for the further details and particulars of such a form.<br><br>
  
Powdered iron: used in metallurgy products, magnets, high-frequency cores, auto parts, catalyst. Radioactive iron (iron 59): in medicine, tracer element in biochemical and metallurgical research. Iron blue: in [[paints]], printing inks, [[plastics]], cosmetics (eye shadow), artist colours, laundry blue, paper dyeing, fertilizer ingredient, baked enamel finishes for autos and appliances, industrial finishes. Black [[Iron Oxide]]: as pigment, in polishing compounds, metallurgy, medicine, magnetic inks, in ferrites for electronics industry.<br><br>
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==Risk Factors==
  
Though there is no substitute for iron, iron ores are not the only materials from which [[iron and steel products]] are made. Very little scrap iron is recycled, but large quantities of scrap steel are recycled. Steel's overall recycling rate of more than 67% is far higher than that of any other recycled material, capturing more than 1-1/4 times as much tonnage as all other materials combined.<br><br>
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Liquefaction is one of the main risks when carrying iron ore and in particular iron ore fines. Cargoes that are liable to liquefaction are classified in the IMSBC-code as group A cargoes.<br><br>
 +
‘Fines’ is a general term used to indicate the physical form of a mineral or similar cargo and, as the name suggests, such cargoes include a large proportion of small particles. <br><br>
 +
In a dry, granular, well-trimmed cargo the individual particles are in contact with each other such that frictional forces prevent them sliding over one another. However, if there is enough moisture present then there is the potential for the cargo to behave like a liquid. This is because settling of the cargo occurs under the influences of vibration and the motion of the ship. As such, the spaces between the particles reduce in size with an accompanying increase in water pressure between the particles. This results in a reduction in friction between the particles and can allow the cargo to shift suddenly.<br><br>
  
Some steel is produced from the recycling of scrap iron, though the total amount is considered to be insignificant now. If the economy of steel production and consumption changes, it may become more cost-effective to recycle iron than to produce new from raw ore.<br><br>
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The tendency of liquefaction depends largely on the moisture content and its relation to the flow moisture point (FMP). A further relevant term is the cargoes transportable moisture limit (TML). The TML is defined as being 90% of the cargoes FMP and thus incorporates a safety margin of 10% of the FMP for safe carriage on board ships. <br><br>
 
+
The IMSBC-code requires that the shippers ensure that the cargo is properly sampled and tested so the determine the moisture content, the FMP and TML before it is loaded. Relevant certificates stating the sampling protocols and outcome of laboratory tests on moisture content, FMP and TML should be provided by the shipper prior to loading. The IMSBC-code should be consulted for relevant sampling and test procedures.<br><br>
Iron and steel face continual competition with lighter materials in the motor vehicle industry; from [[aluminium]], concrete, and wood in construction uses; and from aluminium, glass, paper, and [[plastics]] for containers.<br><br>
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Only if the cargo has a moisture content that is less than the TML can it be offered for safe carriage by sea. Masters should be vigilant and ensure that cargo is inspected for any signs that the moisture content may be above the TML. For example, free standing surface water, or spattering of cargo as it lands in the holds with resulting run marks are clear warning signs.<br><br>
 
+
The IMSBC Code states that a Master may undertake his own check test, often referred to as the ‘can test’. If he considers that the cargo may not be as dry as is being claimed then he can adopt a complementary test procedure.<br><br>
Spathic ore is used for the production of hydrogen by steam iron [[contact]] process. The ore to be used must have a spongy structure in order to present the maximum surface contact. Generally ore of light yellow colour is preferred. It should not sinter together when subjected to the high temperature of 1.000ºC.<br><br>
 
  
The ore is calcined before use to make it suitable for reduction and oxidation cycles. For the production of hydrogen, the calcined ore is first reduced at 700-1.000ºC by use of water gas or producer gas. Steam is then passed over it. The ore gets oxidised and the hydrogen is liberated from the steam. The oxidised ore is then subjected to the reduction cycle by passing water gas which makes the ore suitable for reuse.<br><br>
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The test is to check for approximately determining the possibility of flow on board ship or at the dockside by the following auxiliary method: Half fill a cylindrical can or similar container (0,5 to 1,0 litre capacity) with a sample of the material. Take the can in one hand and bring it down sharply to strike a hard surface such as a solid table from a height of about 0,2 m. Repeat the procedure 25 times at one-or-two-second intervals. Examine the surface for free moisture or fluid conditions. If free moisture or a fluid condition appears, arrangements should be made to have additional laboratory tests conducted on the material before it is accepted for loading. “It is worthy of note that if the result of the ‘can test’ is negative (i.e. in case no free moisture of fluid is observed after the can test) this is not proof that the cargo is below the TML.
  
The arrangement for the process of oxidation and reduction cycle is made automatic in the plant to get the supply of commercial hydrogen which is utilised for the hydrogenation of vegetable oils. Hydrogenation effects hardening of the oils.<br><br>
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Summary Advice for Masters<br>
Micaceous iron ore is generally soft and unctuous. It is used in the manufacture of welding rods (electrodes). It is also used as a coating material in the preparation of welding rods. Bog iron ore is used as purifying and desulphurising material of producer gas and municipal gases. The ore is filled in purifying tank through which gases are passed and purified. Magnetite is used for the preparation of heavy media in [[coal]]-washing [[plants]]. It has got distinct advantage over [[sand]] as magnetite particles adhering to [[coal]] can easily be separated by the magnetic separator. <br><br>
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Follow the IMSBC Code requirements in relation to Class A cargoes.<br><br>
==Shipment / Storage / Risk factors==
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* Ensure that certification showing the moisture contents of the cargo and the TML are presented before loading commences.<br>
 +
* The cargo shall only be accepted if the moisture content is below the TML.<br>
 +
* Confirm that the certification is from a reputable laboratory and that the moisture content determination was carried within a week of the start of loading. If it has rained in that intervening period then further laboratory tests should be carried out to establish the moisture content of the fines to ensure that it is still below the TML.<br>
 +
* Be vigilant during loading and watch out for any signs of wetness in the cargo. If unsure of the state of the cargo undertake a ‘can test’ which may assist in determining whether the cargo is at or above the TML. If any doubts remain then the Master should seek advice from the responsible person ashore.<br>
 +
* Once a cargo is on board it will be difficult to discharge at the load port as it will almost certainly be regarded as having been exported already.<br><br>
  
<b>Iron Ore (fines) (Liquefaction)</b><br>
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See also Ores (and Ores unprocessed)<br><br>
‘Fines’ is a general term used to indicate the physical form of a mineral or similar cargo and, as the name suggests, such cargoes include a large proportion of small particles. The transportation of iron ore fines by sea from the Indian subcontinent has proved problematic in recent years when the moisture content has been too high at the time of loading. As a consequence the solid cargo has behaved as a liquid, sometimes with alarming results. This phenomenon is called liquefaction and leads to stability problems whereby the cargo can shift at sea under the influences of the motion of the vessel and the effects of vibration. Shifting can be sudden or progressive and [[lead]] to a ship developing a severe list, sometimes resulting in a capsize.<br>
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http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Cargo/Iron_Ore_Fines_Triton_2-2010.pdf<br>
Cargoes from the Indian sub-continent have been particularly prone to this phenomenon in the monsoon season (June to September) because the fines are stored outside very often with no protection from heavy rain. Also, cargoes transported long distances by rail from mines to ports are prone to similar exposures. However, as explained below, such problematic cargoes would never have been loaded if properly sampled, tested and assessed before loading commenced. It is worth noting also that stockpiles can remain moist if left out in the open after the monsoon season. As such, care needs to be taken at all times and close attention paid to pre-loading test procedures. Liquefaction car occur in a cargo that outwardly appears dry on the surface or essentially so; it does not have to be ‘running wet’ with water for it to have the propensity to liquefy.<br><br>
+
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Cargo/Liquefaction_of_Iron_Ore_Triton_1-2010-2.pdf<br>
<b>Liquefaction</b><br>
+
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Carriage_of_nickel_and_Iron_Ore_Fines_20120601_2.pdf<br>
In a dry, granular, well-trimmed cargo the individual particles are in contact with each other such that frictional forces prevent them sliding over one another. However, if there is enough moisture present then there is the potential for the cargo to behave like a liquid. This is because settling of the cargo occurs under the influences of vibration, overstowage and the motion of the ship. As such, the spaces between the particles reduce in size with an accompanying increase in water pressure between the particles. This results in a reduction in friction between the particles and can allow the cargo to shift suddenly.<br><br>
+
http://bulkcarrierguide.com/iron-ore.html <br>
<b>Testing the Fines</b><br>
 
Obviously, before a cargo is loaded the owners and charterers need to be satisfied that it is safe to carry. The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code, published by the IMO, addresses this by requiring that the shippers ensure it is properly sampled, tested and assessed before it is loaded. Cargoes that are capable of liquefaction are classified Class A cargoes. The Code is mandatory under the provision of the SOLAS Convention.<br><br>
 
The Code requires that the cargo be assessed by determining a property known as the flow moisture point (FMP). This is the lowest moisture content at which the material under test begins to exhibit flow (liquefaction). The Code requires that whatever the value of the FMP, it is reduced by 10% so as to incorporate a safety factor. This lower figure is then adopted as the Transportable Moisture Limit (TML) for the cargo; TML – 90% of FMP.<br><br>
 
As such, tests to determine the actual moisture content of the cargo must then be carried out on a representative sample before it is loaded. If the moisture content is at the TML or exceeds it then the cargo should be declared unsafe and rejected. It is important to note that the moisture content determination on the cargo to be loaded must be carried out no more than seven days before the loading commenced. Moreover, if there has been significant rain between the time of testing and loading then further tests must be conducted to ensure that the moisture content of the cargo is still less than the TML. The IMSBC Code sets out the proper Laboratory Test Procedures, Associated Apparatus and Standards. The test should be carried out by a competent laboratory.<br><br>
 
The IMSBC Code requires that the shipper shall provide certification to the Master to confirm the TML and actual moisture content of the cargo before loading can commence. Only if the cargo has a moisture content that is less than the TML can it be offered for safe carriage by sea. Masters should be vigilant and ensure that cargo is inspected for any signs that it may be above the TML. For example, free standing surface water, or spattering of cargo as it lands in the holds with resulting run marks are clear warning signs.<br>
 
The IMSBC Code states that a Master may undertake his own check test, often referred to as the ‘can test’. If he considers that the cargo may not be as dry as is being claimed then he can adopt a complementary test procedure.<br><br>
 
The test is to check for approximately determining the possibility of flow on board ship or at the dockside by the following auxiliary method: Half fill a cylindrical can or similar container (0,5 to 1,0 litre capacity) with a sample of the material. Take the can in one hand and bring it down sharply to strike a hard surface such as a solid table from a height of about 0,2 m. Repeat the procedure 25 times at one-or-two-second intervals. Examine the surface for free moisture or fluid conditions. If free moisture or a fluid condition appears, arrangements should be made to have additional laboratory tests conducted on the material before it is accepted for loading. “It is worthy of note that if the result of the ‘can test’ is negative this is not proof that the cargo is below the TML.<br><br>
 
<b>Summary Advice for Masters)</b><br>
 
Follows the IMSBC Code requirements in relation to Class A cargoes.
 
* Ensure that certification showing the moisture contents of the cargo and the TML are presented before loading commences.
 
* The cargo shall only be accepted if the moisture content is below the TML.
 
* Confirm that the certification is from a reputable laboratory and that the moisture content determination was carried within a week of the start of loading. If it has rained in that intervening period then further laboratory tests should be carried out to establish the moisture content of the fines to ensure that it is still below the TML.
 
* Be vigilant during loading and watch out for any signs of wetness in the cargo. If unsure of the state of the cargo undertake a ‘can test’ which may assist in determining whether the cargo is at or above the TML. If any doubts remain then the Master should seek advice from the responsible person ashore.
 
* Once a cargo is on board it will be difficult to discharge at the load port as it will almost certainly be regarded as having been exported from India.<br><br>
 
<b>See also Ores (and [[Ores unprocessed]])<br><br>
 
  
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Cargo/Iron_Ore_Fines_Triton_2-2010.pdf<br><br>
 
  
http://www.ukpandi.com/fileadmin/uploads/uk-pi/LP%20Documents/LP_Bulletins/Iron%20Ore%20Fines%20aide-memoire.pdf<br><br>
 
  
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Cargo/Liquefaction_of_Iron_Ore_Triton_1-2010-2.pdf<br><br>
 
  
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Carriage_of_nickel_and_Iron_Ore_Fines_20120601_2.pdf<br><br>
 
  
http://bulkcarrierguide.com/iron-ore.html
 
  
  
 
[[Category: Products]][[Category: Minerals and rocks]]
 
[[Category: Products]][[Category: Minerals and rocks]]

Latest revision as of 12:10, 14 January 2021

Infobox on Iron ore (fines)
Example of Iron ore (fines)
Iron ore (fines).jpg
Facts
Origin Russia, Brazil, China, Australia, India and the U.S.A.
Stowage factor (in m3/t) Varying largely; several iron ore products are classified as heavy bulk cargo, which means that due to their dense structure overstressing of tank tops or ship's structures can occur in case improperly loaded and or distributed over a ships hold.
Humidity / moisture Various
Ventilation Usually not required
Risk factors Liquefaction. Overstressing of ship's structures due to the density of certain iron ore products

Iron ore (fines)

Description

Iron Ore (fines)
Iron ores are rocks and minerals from which metallic iron can be economically extracted. The ores are usually rich in iron oxides and vary in colour from dark grey, bright yellow, deep purple, to rusty red. The iron itself is usually found in the form of magnetite (Fe3O4), hematite (Fe2O3), goethite (FeO(OH)), limonite (FeO(OH).n(H2O)) or siderite (FeCO3).

Ores carrying very high quantities of hematite or magnetite (greater than ~60% iron) are known as "natural ore" or "direct shipping ore", meaning they can be fed directly into iron-making blast furnaces. Most reserves of such ore have now been depleted. Iron ore is the raw material used to make Pig Iron, which is one of the main raw materials to make steel. 98% of the mined iron ore is used to make steel. Indeed, it has been argued that iron ore is "more integral to the global economy than any other commodity, except perhaps oil".

Iron ore is mined in about 50 countries. The seven largest of these producing countries account for about three-quarters of total world production. Among the largest iron ore producing nations are Russia, Brazil, China, Australia, India and the USA.

Iron is one of the three naturally magnetic elements; the others are cobalt and nickel. Iron is the most magnetic of the three.

The principle ores of iron are Hematite, (70% iron) and Magnetite, (72% iron). Taconite is a low-grade iron ore, containing up to 30% Magnetite and Hematite.

Shipment / Storage

The carriage of most iron ore products in bulk form is subject to the provisions of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code (IMSBC-Code).

The code requires the shipper of such bulk cargoes to issue a cargo declaration to the carrier. Such a cargo declaration should include the appropriate information to enable the carrier to take the necessary precautions for proper stowage and carriage of the cargo concerned. A standard form for this information has been developed and the IMSBC-code should be consulted for the further details and particulars of such a form.

Risk Factors

Liquefaction is one of the main risks when carrying iron ore and in particular iron ore fines. Cargoes that are liable to liquefaction are classified in the IMSBC-code as group A cargoes.

‘Fines’ is a general term used to indicate the physical form of a mineral or similar cargo and, as the name suggests, such cargoes include a large proportion of small particles.

In a dry, granular, well-trimmed cargo the individual particles are in contact with each other such that frictional forces prevent them sliding over one another. However, if there is enough moisture present then there is the potential for the cargo to behave like a liquid. This is because settling of the cargo occurs under the influences of vibration and the motion of the ship. As such, the spaces between the particles reduce in size with an accompanying increase in water pressure between the particles. This results in a reduction in friction between the particles and can allow the cargo to shift suddenly.

The tendency of liquefaction depends largely on the moisture content and its relation to the flow moisture point (FMP). A further relevant term is the cargoes transportable moisture limit (TML). The TML is defined as being 90% of the cargoes FMP and thus incorporates a safety margin of 10% of the FMP for safe carriage on board ships.

The IMSBC-code requires that the shippers ensure that the cargo is properly sampled and tested so the determine the moisture content, the FMP and TML before it is loaded. Relevant certificates stating the sampling protocols and outcome of laboratory tests on moisture content, FMP and TML should be provided by the shipper prior to loading. The IMSBC-code should be consulted for relevant sampling and test procedures.

Only if the cargo has a moisture content that is less than the TML can it be offered for safe carriage by sea. Masters should be vigilant and ensure that cargo is inspected for any signs that the moisture content may be above the TML. For example, free standing surface water, or spattering of cargo as it lands in the holds with resulting run marks are clear warning signs.

The IMSBC Code states that a Master may undertake his own check test, often referred to as the ‘can test’. If he considers that the cargo may not be as dry as is being claimed then he can adopt a complementary test procedure.

The test is to check for approximately determining the possibility of flow on board ship or at the dockside by the following auxiliary method: Half fill a cylindrical can or similar container (0,5 to 1,0 litre capacity) with a sample of the material. Take the can in one hand and bring it down sharply to strike a hard surface such as a solid table from a height of about 0,2 m. Repeat the procedure 25 times at one-or-two-second intervals. Examine the surface for free moisture or fluid conditions. If free moisture or a fluid condition appears, arrangements should be made to have additional laboratory tests conducted on the material before it is accepted for loading. “It is worthy of note that if the result of the ‘can test’ is negative (i.e. in case no free moisture of fluid is observed after the can test) this is not proof that the cargo is below the TML.

Summary Advice for Masters
Follow the IMSBC Code requirements in relation to Class A cargoes.

  • Ensure that certification showing the moisture contents of the cargo and the TML are presented before loading commences.
  • The cargo shall only be accepted if the moisture content is below the TML.
  • Confirm that the certification is from a reputable laboratory and that the moisture content determination was carried within a week of the start of loading. If it has rained in that intervening period then further laboratory tests should be carried out to establish the moisture content of the fines to ensure that it is still below the TML.
  • Be vigilant during loading and watch out for any signs of wetness in the cargo. If unsure of the state of the cargo undertake a ‘can test’ which may assist in determining whether the cargo is at or above the TML. If any doubts remain then the Master should seek advice from the responsible person ashore.
  • Once a cargo is on board it will be difficult to discharge at the load port as it will almost certainly be regarded as having been exported already.

See also Ores (and Ores unprocessed)

http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Cargo/Iron_Ore_Fines_Triton_2-2010.pdf
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Cargo/Liquefaction_of_Iron_Ore_Triton_1-2010-2.pdf
http://www.swedishclub.com/upload/Loss_Prev_Docs/Carriage_of_nickel_and_Iron_Ore_Fines_20120601_2.pdf
http://bulkcarrierguide.com/iron-ore.html