North CARGO - User Manual

CARGO
Carriage
of Coal

Summary

Introduction

Exporters

The Main Hazards

Flammable Atmospheres

Coal can emit methane, creating a fire/explosion risk where an ignition source is present.

Liquefaction

Coal with fine particles and moisture may liquefy, becoming unstable under external forces.

Asphyxiation

Dangerous atmosphere in holds due to methane, CO2, CO, leading to oxygen depletion.

Self-heating

Coal can emit methane and heat itself, posing fire and explosion risks.

Corrosion

Coal reacts with water to produce corrosive acids and hydrogen gas.

Precautions Prior to Loading

Visual Inspection

Master must physically inspect cargo to ensure it is safe to load.

Coal Cargo Bilge Water

Maintain accurate bilge pumping records; ensure cargo is not HME for overboard discharge.

Summary

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The device in question is the Smart AR882A IR Device, an infrared thermometer designed for measuring the surface temperature of coal, either before loading or within the ship's hold. This device plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe carriage of coal by allowing masters to quickly and accurately assess the cargo's temperature, a key safety precaution against self-heating.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Smart AR882A IR Device is to provide non-contact temperature measurements of surfaces. Specifically in the context of coal carriage, it is used to measure the surface temperature of coal cargo. This measurement is vital for identifying coal that may be self-heating, as cargoes with a temperature above 55°C should not be accepted for loading due to the increased risk of fire and explosion. The device helps in early detection of potential hazards, allowing for timely intervention and adherence to safety protocols outlined in the IMSBC Code. Its non-contact nature makes it suitable for measuring temperatures in potentially hazardous or hard-to-reach areas, minimizing direct exposure to the cargo.

Important Technical Specifications:

While the provided image and text do not offer a comprehensive list of all technical specifications for the Smart AR882A IR Device, its core functionality as an "IR Device" indicates it operates on the principle of infrared thermometry. This means it detects the infrared energy emitted by an object and converts it into a temperature reading. Key specifications typically associated with such devices, though not explicitly stated here, would include:

• Temperature Range: The range of temperatures it can accurately measure. For coal cargo, this would need to cover temperatures up to and potentially exceeding 55°C.
• Accuracy: The tolerance or margin of error in its temperature readings. High accuracy is critical for reliable safety assessments.
• Distance-to-Spot Ratio (D:S): This ratio indicates the size of the area being measured at a given distance. A higher D:S ratio allows for measuring smaller targets from further away, which can be advantageous when inspecting large cargo holds.
• Emissivity: Infrared thermometers require an emissivity setting, which accounts for how well an object emits infrared energy. Different materials have different emissivities, and for coal, this setting would need to be appropriate for accurate readings. Some advanced devices offer adjustable emissivity.
• Response Time: How quickly the device can take a measurement. A fast response time is beneficial for efficient inspections.
• Display: The type of display (e.g., LCD) and its readability in various lighting conditions.
• Power Source: Typically batteries, with an indication of battery life.

The image shows a handheld device with a clear digital display and a trigger for operation, suggesting it is designed for ease of use in industrial environments. The model number "AR882A" implies a specific product line with potentially detailed specifications available from the manufacturer.

Usage Features:

The Smart AR882A IR Device is highlighted as an easy-to-use tool for masters to check the surface temperature of coal cargo. Its key usage features include:

• Non-Contact Measurement: This is a significant advantage, allowing temperature checks without direct physical interaction with the coal, which can be hot, dusty, or in an enclosed space. This enhances safety for the operator.
• Quick Assessment: The device enables rapid temperature readings, facilitating efficient inspections of large quantities of coal, both on the quay prior to loading and within the ship's holds during the voyage.
• Early Hazard Detection: By providing immediate temperature data, it helps in identifying coal that is above the critical 55°C threshold, preventing the loading of unsafe cargo and allowing for proactive measures against self-heating.
• Portability: As a handheld device, it is highly portable, allowing masters and crew to move easily around the cargo area to take measurements at various points.
• Digital Display: The clear digital display ensures that temperature readings are easily visible and interpretable, even in challenging conditions.
• Trigger Operation: The presence of a trigger suggests a simple point-and-shoot operation, making it user-friendly even for those without extensive technical training.
• Versatility: While specifically mentioned for coal, such IR devices are generally versatile and can be used for temperature checks of other surfaces or equipment on board, contributing to overall vessel safety and maintenance.

Maintenance Features:

While the provided text does not explicitly detail maintenance features for the Smart AR882A IR Device, general best practices for infrared thermometers and similar electronic equipment would apply:

• Regular Cleaning: The lens, which is critical for accurate readings, should be kept clean and free from dust, dirt, or moisture, especially in dusty environments like coal terminals.
• Battery Management: Regular checking and replacement of batteries are essential to ensure the device is always operational when needed.
• Storage: Proper storage in a protective case can prevent damage from impacts, extreme temperatures, or moisture, extending the device's lifespan.
• Calibration Checks: Although not mentioned, for critical safety equipment, periodic calibration checks against a known temperature source would typically be recommended to ensure continued accuracy. This might involve sending the device to a specialized service center or using an in-house calibration standard if available.
• Firmware Updates (if applicable): For more advanced digital devices, occasional firmware updates might be available from the manufacturer to improve performance or add features, though this is less common for basic IR thermometers.
• User Manual Adherence: Following the manufacturer's instructions for care and use is paramount for maintaining the device's functionality and accuracy.

In summary, the Smart AR882A IR Device is an indispensable tool for ensuring the safe carriage of coal by providing a reliable, non-contact method for monitoring cargo temperatures, thereby mitigating the risks associated with self-heating. Its ease of use and portability make it a practical asset for vessel masters and crew in adhering to international safety regulations.

North CARGO Specifications

General

Brand	North
Model	CARGO
Category	Farm Equipment
Language	English