Image source: Flickr

The Loadout Operation

Introduction

Loadout operation is a vital process in the marine/offshore industry that involves the safe transfer of cargo or structures from the fabrication site to a sea-borne vessel for transportation to the final destination. At MBM Consultancy, we specialize in loadout engineering and provide comprehensive solutions for loadout operations. In this article, we will discuss the different types of loadouts, challenges, and engineering considerations involved in loadout operations.

Types of Loadout

There are three main types of loadouts used in the marine/offshore industry:

A. Lifted Loadout – In these loadouts, the cargo is loaded by a simple lift by a crane and placed in the right position on the vessel

Lifted Loadouts (source: www.gspoffshore.com)

B. Skidded Loadout – During a skidded loadout, the engineering team constructs skid beams/rails on the vessel and pulls the cargo onto the vessel from the quay side using winches, allowing it to ‘skid’ onto the vessel.

Skidded Loadout (Source: Flickr)

C. SPMT Trailer loadout – This type of loadout involves loading the Cargo onto a SPMT trailer.. The SPMT trailer then moves from quayside to the vessel using link bridges (which are ramps connecting the Quay to the vessel).

SPMT Trailer Loadout (Source: www.flickr.com)

The selection of the right loadout method depends on the Cargo dimensions and weight, the limitations of the Quay side structure and cost effectiveness.

Generally, we carry out skidded/SPMT loadouts longitudinally, moving the cargo along the length of the vessel. However, in some cases, we also conduct transverse loadouts, moving the cargo along the width of the vessel, when we have concerns about the longitudinal strength of the vessel.

Transverse Loadout (Source www.coscoht.com)

Challenges

Loadout operations can be challenging due to the dimensions and weight of the cargo, limitations of the quay side structure, and cost-effectiveness. We generally perform skidded/SPMT loadouts in steps, and the engineering team carefully calibrates the ballast in the tanks at each stage to maintain the vessel’s even keel and level with the quayside. They also ensure that the longitudinal strength of the vessel remains within limits throughout the exercise. Moreover, the engineering team takes into account the tidal variations during the loadout and considers the rise/fall in tidal levels during the operation when sequencing the ballasting.

Engineering for loadouts

Following engineering aspects are important for loadouts

Study of Quay side structure – Involves study of tidal patterns and draft availability
Vessel selection – depends on cargo size, quay side water depth
Loadout Ballast Engineering – This is done by Naval Architects in consultation with the vessel master. It provides the patterns of ballast for different stages of loadout as the Cargo moves from the Quay side to the vessel in steps. The purpose is to maintain the vessel on level with quay, and on even keel, while ensuring longitudinal strength is within limits. The stability parameters too, need to be checked and be within limits.
SPMT Trailer selection and stability check – for SPMT loadouts
Bridge plate/Ramp design – for SPMT and Skidded loadouts

Loadout engineering is an iterative process which takes multiple factors into account while arriving at the optimum design and ballasting pattern for a specific Cargo. Unexpected surprises during the actual operation cannot be ruled out. To ensure a successful loadout operation, the engineering team works closely with the operations team, adapting and overcoming any challenges that may arise.

MBM Consultancy has developed a template for undertaking Barge Loadouts and is available for purchase.

This Barge Manual follows all rules and regulations set by DNVGL.

You can find the rules and regulations here:

Our loadout engineering team works closely with the operations team to ensure a successful loadout operation. We always remain ready to adapt and overcome any challenges that may arise during the actual operation, despite the best of engineering efforts.

In conclusion, loadout operations are a crucial process in the marine/offshore industry that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and expertise. At MBM Consultancy, we provide comprehensive loadout engineering solutions to ensure that your loadout operations are successful and cost-effective. Contact us today to learn more about our services.