International Grain Code

Question 1

What is the angle of repose?

Answer 1

The angle between the horizontal and the slope angle a granular material forms when poured in one spot.

Question 2

Granular material shifts more easily at a steeper angle. True or False?

Answer 2

False. The shallower the angle of repose, the easier it will shift.

Question 3

What bulk cargo must comply with the International grain code?

Answer 3

All non cohesive bulk cargoes with an angle of repose of 30 degrees or less

Question 4

What are the requirements of the International Grain Code?

Answer 4

1. The cargo must be trimmed level before sailing
2. The vessel must hold a document of authorisation to prove a ship is accepted to carry grain and the loading manual is accepted by the administration
3. The vessel must hold an approved grain loading manual
4. The vessel must suffer an angle of heel due to grain shift of less than 12 degrees
5. The area between the heeling arm curve and the GZ curve must be at least 0.075m-radians
6. The initial GM must be at least 0.30m
7. The vessel must be upright before proceeding to sea

Question 4

At what point will the bulk cargo begin to shift?

Answer 4

When the ship rolls beyond the cargo angle of repose

Question 5

What is included in the grain loading manual?

Answer 5

1. Ships particulars
2. Lightship displacement and KG
3. Table of free surface moments
4. Capacities and centres of gravity of each compartment
5. Curve or table of flooding
6. Hydrostatic data
   7 Cross curves of stability (KN curves)
7. Maximum permissible grain heeling moments for various displacements and KG values
8. Loading instructions
9. Worked examples for the guidance of the Master

Question 6

How can movement of grain be restricted on a bulk carrier?

Answer 6

1. Use of a weighted saucer on top of the loaded grain
2. Over stowing grain with other items to prevent movement
3. Strapping or lashing to hold the grain in place
4. Securing with wire mesh