We have already talked about what bulk freight is and how it is transported in a previous post, i.e, cargo transported in large amounts without being baled or packaged and where the means of transport is the actual container. Having also talked in depth about ferro-alloy transport, it is now time to analyse how the transport and handling of certain more common bulk is in the industrial sector and the reason why it is a must to work with a hazardous goods and logistics specialist.
Fluorspar
The first bulk product we are going to look at is flourspar, a very common mineral in the chemical and electronics industry, and essential for the manufacture of products such as electronic circuits, pharmaceutical products, polymers or glass, as well as many other applications. While not classified as hazardous goods, this bulk must be transported using covered trailers that do not generate dust. If it is in liquid form (HydrofluoricAcid), it must be transported in special steel tanks, subject to strict regular reviews. While no incidents have been reported in relation to this melting agent, this material is highly harmful if inhaled.
Tar
Coal tar is a very common in the coal industry and in the manufacture of aluminium graphite, even though it is mainly used in road surfacing. While it is stable, this element is classified as toxic. Transportation of this element in a solid state must take place at room temperature, taking the utmost care with any particles that could be generated and ensuring proper ventilation at all times. It becomes more hazardous in its liquid state, since it must be transported at temperatures between 200 °C and 220 °C degrees in dry containers, preventing any type of splashing and vapours that could lead to serious accidents.
Anthrocene
This aromatic hydrocarbon is a very toxic element and widely used in the chemical industry as part of the manufacture process of insecticide or preservatives, although it is also commonly used as a starting substance for colourings. This hazardous bulk must be transported in containers that contain no liquids and always below 30 °C. If transported in powder form, the cargo must also be hermetically covered to prevent floating particles.
Pig iron
The fourth most abundant material from the earth’s crust, iron is widely used in the metallurgical industry and in the manufacturing processes of steel or wrought iron, as well as having many other uses. While it poses no particular risks for transport and is not classified as hazardous goods, the density of this raw material makes it necessary to monitor the distribution of the weight of the container where it is transported and load it in a way that the upper levels of the cargo are the same.
Chromite
Chromite is a very toxic and irritating mineral, which is mainly used for the manufacture of bricks as well as part of the process for obtaining aluminum alloys. It must be kept away from oxidizing agents at all times during transport and storage, in a fully sealed container with sufficient ventilation.
As we have already seen, each bulk cargo requires a certain set of specific services and infrastructures. And this is where we can highlight Bilogistik’s ample experience as well as its wide range of services for the transportation of any type of freight, including those classified as hazardous.
