Question 1319Deck General70% to pass
Which operation may cause the pressure in an inert tank to fall below the prescribed limits?
AI Explanation
The correct answer is C) Discharging.
During discharging operations, the pressure in an inert tank may fall below the prescribed limits. This is because as the liquid cargo is being removed from the tank, the volume of gas (usually nitrogen or another inert gas) inside the tank increases, causing the pressure to drop. The regulations require maintaining a positive pressure in the inert gas system to prevent the ingress of air and the formation of a flammable atmosphere. Discharging the cargo reduces the volume of gas, leading to a potential pressure drop below the prescribed limits.
The other options are incorrect because: A) Steaming tanks would increase the pressure, B) Crude oil washing would not directly affect the inert gas pressure, and D) Loading would increase the pressure as more cargo is added to the tank.
Related Questions
#1317 The maximum allowable oxygen content within the ship's cargo tanks, inert gas piping and the vapor recovery system is _______________.#1318 Introducing inert gas into a tank already inert with the object of further reducing the oxygen or hydrocarbon content to prevent combustion if air enters the tank is called _______________.#1320 Which step is NOT generally taken when gas-freeing a tank? #1321 Which of the following describes excessive recirculation of inert gas? #1322 While discharging cargo, the cargo tank pressures are falling too low. What can the Cargo Officer do to correct the problem?