NAVIGATING THE IBC CODE 2020 AMENDMENTS

By January 2021, a revised code for carrying chemical cargo at sea took effect, it opens up for competitive advantages

The shipping industry is no stranger to evolving regulations, and the IBC Code 2020 amendments, effective from January 2021, mark a significant turning point. These amendments apply to all chemical tankers and offshore support vessels (OSVs) transporting offshore contaminated bulk liquid (OBL).

The International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk, or the IBC Code as it is commonly called, sets the global standard for safely transporting hazardous chemicals at sea. The updated IBC Code for shipping outlines stricter standards for vessels and onboard equipment with more stringent requirements for tank pressure settings and an expanded list of toxic substances

 

What is now considered toxic?

The number of toxic substances classified in Chapter 17, Column K has nearly doubled in IBC 2020, increasing from 231 to 429. Common substances such as methanol, diethylene glycol, MIBK, nonyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, and octanol now come under the stricter toxic classification.

 

Increased PV valve setting requirement

The above-mentioned toxic substances are no longer be allowed to be carried on the same ship unless Pressure-Vacuum (PV) valves setting is increased to 20.0 kPa (in most cases from 14 kPa).

 

A need for action

Vessels transporting methanol, diethylene glycol, MIBK, nonyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, octanol, or other products now added to the list need to be adapted to meet the new standards as the International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk ships (COF) will no longer cover these cargoes otherwise.

 

The hidden advantage of compliance

While the IBC 2020 amendments require significant adjustments, they present a hidden operational advantage. Changing the setting from 14.0 kPa to 20.0 kPa allows for higher loading rates – regardless, if the actual cargo carried requires 20.0 kPa setting or not. The positive implication is shorter time spend at terminal and consequently higher efficiency on the vessel. By upgrading to meet the new pressure standards, vessels can continue transporting cargoes now classified as toxic without disruption.

 

Our High Velocity valves solution

Some valve types can cause pressure to rise above the set point, posing risks, such as burst tanks, especially for vessels with lower design pressures. Bay Valves’ High Velocity Valves solve this by opening instantly at the set point and ensuring tank pressure never exceeds the designated limit. This makes it safe to operate a 20 kPa regime on practically all tankers, even those with low design pressures.

 

Get a free assessment for compliance with the IBC Code

The exact implications of the new IBC code, be it IBC offshore or IBC shipping, will always depend on the design and installed equipment of the specific vessel. We, at Bay Valves, offer a free-of-charge assessment of your vessel. The assessment will consider design pressure, loading rates and vapor emission control system (VECS).
We have collaborated with over 72 clients on more than 300 projects, helping shipowners navigate complex regulations. Our engineers specialise in hassle-free, Class-approved upgrades to your P/V valves, ensuring compliance with the IBC Code 2020 amendments.

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Whether you operate a chemical tanker or an OSV, our team is here to help you navigate the IBC Code and achieve compliance effortlessly.