CARGO PIPING SYSTEM

OIL TANKERS
CARGO OPERATIONS IN
OIL TANKERS ARE DONE
IN
CLOSED ENVIRONMENT
THERE ARE DIFFERENT
PIPING SYSTEM USED :
•FREE FLOW SYSTEM
•DIRECT LINE SYSTEM
•RING MAINS SYSTEM
FREE FLOW SYSTEM
DESIGN :

•Large Gate Valves built in the

bulkheads of the tanks.

• Oil Flows from Side tanks to

Center Tanks.

• Stern Trim allows all the oil to

flow to Aftermost tank.

•Suctions of Cargo Pumps are

located in Aftermost tanks for
taking out the Oil
Free Flow System
ADVANTAGES :
1. Good drainage of Cargo
2. Small Residues can be easily
discharged by Stripping Pump.
Free Flow System
DIS ADVANTAGES :
1. Poor Segregation.
2. Vessel Usually Requires a
Pipeline system as well.
3. Stability issues can be critical.
Direct Line System
DESIGN :

•Simple Line arrangement

• Lines Lead directly to the

Tanks

• Almost straight length of

pipelines with lesser bends.

•Fewer Valves

•Suitable for VLCC :

Facilitates quick
Loading/Discharging
Direct Line System
ADVANTAGES :
1. Facilitates quick loading / discharging.
2. Better suction and less loss of pressure due to
friction
3. Less erosion and leaks due to fewer
valves/bends. i.e. Lesser Maintenance.
4. Reduced time spent in line washing.
5. System permits two or three grades to be
simultaneously carried.
Direct Line System
DISADVANTAGES :
1. Thorough Washing of Lines not possible.
2. Leaks are difficult to control due to fewer
valves.
3. Many grades cannot be carried as required
valve segregation not provided.
Ring Mains System
DESIGN :

• Multiple Pipelines ;
Multiple bends and valves

•Double Valve segregation.

•Any Tank can be

connected to any Pump .

•Initial cost of fitting is

higher.

•Ideal for Product Tankers

Ring Mains System
ADVANTAGES :
1. Versatile : Any tank can be connected to any
pump.
2. Two Valve segregation between products can
always be met.
3. Line water can be carried out thoroughly
without flushing into tanks.
Ring Mains System
DISADVANTAGES :
1. Expensive .
2. Line Flushing takes Longer Time.
3. Relatively Slow Loading/Discharging.
4. Erosion
5. High Maintenance.
THANK YOU