The variety and number of liquid cargoes being transported in bulk by sea are growing steadily as research and industrialization advance in all countries. Most of these products at one time or another are offered for loading aboard general cargo vessels in deep tanks or portable tanks. Although such cargoes generally are considered high-paying, they often involve complex handling problems which if not properly solved can result in substantial losses and claims. In an attempt to advance general knowledge and efficiency in this growing field, the Ship Technical Operations Committee created Panel 0-26.
The panel, composed of representatives of all phases of the industry, was given the task of compiling under one cover a review of current practice. The panel has solicited information and experience data from operators and designers of a large group of representative ships. This bulletin summarizes the experience in tank construction, heating, cleaning or preparation, and coating. It also presents the panel's recommendations on methods of surveying and inspecting deep tanks, and on methods of testing coatings and preparing steel tank surfaces.
The panel intends to continue the development of the subjects covered herein with the expectation of ultimately arriving at empirical standards of design and operational methods. Further, the panel will endeavor to develop methods of relative cost analysis for the benefit of the industry.
As the use of coating products has only now become universal, the panel will endeavor to compile and correlate more definitive recommendations and standards as experience is gained with the ultimate goal of specific recommendations. The complete development of the environmental test will also be undertaken.