TYPES OF CARGO PIPELINE SYSTEMS

Tankers have varied and sometimes complex pipeline systems which is basically
based on three main types: Free Flow System.
Direct line system
Ring main system.
Free Flow System:
This system is mainly used on large crude carriers which carry only one
grade of cargo which is required to be discharged quickly.
Large gate valves built into the bulk heads of the tanks allow the oil to flow
from the side tanks to the centre tanks, from where the stern trim of the
vessel causes the oil to flow to the aftermost tank, where the suctions of the
main cargo pumps are situated.
The large bulk heads sluice valves permit a good drainage of the cargo. Any
residues are discharged by the stripping pumps.
Direct Line System:
This system permits 2 or 3 grades to be carried and is suitable for VLCCs as
its facilitates quick loading and discharging.
The arrangement is simple with lines leading directly to the tanks.
Due to the straight lengths of the pipeline, there is better suction and less
loss of pressure due to friction.
Fewer bends and valves mean less erosion and leaks, reducing the
maintenance required.
The time spent in line washing is also reduced; however through washing of
the line is not possible unless the washings are flushed into the tank and
discharged from there.
Due to their being fewer valves, leaks are difficult to control and may grades
cannot be carried as the required line and valve segregation is not provided.
Ring Main System:
The system is ideal for product carriers where several different products are
to be carried simultaneously in the different tanks.
From the figure it will be noticed that any pump can be connected to
discharge any tank, making it every versatile.
Cargo may have to be pumped in a round about route but the required two
valves segregation between products can always be met.

 Line washing can be carried out thoroughly without flushing into the tanks.
But it takes a longer time due to the number of bends, joints and valves.
Due to this the pumping rate is also affected and leaks due to erosion
become common as the ship becomes older. The initial cost of fitting this
system is higher.