Cargo Handling Method Due to Temperature Decrease in Para-Xylene Cargo During Winter on the MT WOO DONG

Abstract

This thesis is entitled "Cargo Handling Method Due to Temperature Decrease in Para-Xylene Cargo During Winter on the MT WOO DONG". The operation of tankers is very complex, requiring officers and crew to use safety equipment in accordance with the Ship Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP) to carry out cargo operations and tank cleaning effectively. One of the special payloads of concern is Para-Xylene, an aromatic hydrocarbon that is generally derived from crude oil and is used in the production of polyester fabrics and PET plastic bottles. However, Para-Xylene has a freezing point of 13.2°C which is higher than other xylene isomers, thus posing challenges during payload operations, especially in cold weather conditions. Several incidents involving the handling of Para-Xylene cargo on the MT WOO DONG ship from December 18th, 2022 – December 26th, 2022 have been documented, due to problems such as cargo freezing in pipelines and valves, which caused operational delays. To address these challenges, proper planning, preparation, and execution of cargo operations are essential, including monitoring cargo temperatures, implementing warming measures, and ensuring collaboration between port personnel and ships. This study aims to analyze and propose a method of handling Para-Xylene cargo in cold weather conditions on the MT WOO DONG ship to prevent freezing incidents and optimize cargo operations efficiently.