Beyond Double Hull: River Tank Barge Conversion to Great Lakes Hazardous Chemical Service

Abstract

The retrofit of a double bottom to a 25 000 bbl standard Mississippi River tank barge and its conversion for coal tar cargo service on the Great Lakes are described. A unique structural arrangement made the retrofit to OPA-90 and IBC Code requirements economically feasible. Cargo pumping and heating systems are covered in detail, as are the special handling requirements of coal tar as a marine cargo. The story of the project's development and execution is explained, as well as the combined U.S. and Canadian regulatory requirements that were overcome.