Nickel Ore
Concerns have arisen about the safety of cargoes of nickel ore, loaded at Tanjung Buli. These cargoes originate from open cast mining on the Indonesian island of Halmahera and are presented for loading directly from the mine with little or no processing. The consistency of the material is that of a wet mud of finely-divided particles, interspersed with varying proportions of larger rocks. The declared moisture content of these cargoes is in the region of approximately 25% to 35%. In at least one cargo, pools of free water have developed on the cargo surface during loading and during carriage. Because of the method of mining, significant variations in moisture content and physical consistency are likely from cargo to cargo. Contact the Club for further information and guidance.
Nickel Concentrate
Concentrates are materials obtained from a natural ore by a process of enrichment or beneficiation by physical or chemical separation and removal of unwanted constituents. The following images show a cargo loaded to the vessel after confirmation that the moisture content was less than the transportable moisture limit (TML). However, tests conducted on board found the moisture content to be in excess of the TML and cargo operations were ceased. The images show, from left to right, (1) cargo in the hold; (2) cargo in the hold; (3) collecting a cargo sample; (4) water puddle in the hold: and (5) conducting an on board test.
Carriage advice
This photo gallery page provides an illustration of the commodity. Due to the nature of the problems associated with these cargoes, Members are encouraged to contact the Club for carriage advice before loading.
See the Carefully to Carry article
mineral ore concentrates and other materials which may liquefy.
