Transportation of bulk cargo is a complex operation due to the fact that the vehicle involved loses balance more easily and is less stable on the road. If transportation rules are not followed, bulk cargo may crumble and create an obstacle to the movement of other vehicles. In addition, some materials are capable of self-heating and spontaneous combustion.
Bulk cargo includes:
- Building materials – crushed stone, sand, gravel, soil, etc.
- Raw materials and products of the chemical industry, for example, mineral fertilizers.
- Food products and raw materials for their production: sugar, salt, etc.
A separate category includes bulk cargo, the transportation of which is subject to more stringent requirements, since they are characterized by the possibility of displacement. Cargoes delivered in bulk are usually divided into grain and non-grain (coal, ores, etc.).
Transportation of bulk cargo is carried out using special equipment – dump trucks, tankers, containers. When delivering by rail, covered wagons, gondola cars and hoppers are used.
Rules for the transportation of bulk cargo
- A driver engaged in the transportation of bulk cargo must undergo special training to teach the specifics of driving a vehicle, and have access to this type of activity.
- When transporting by road, it must be equipped with a thick awning that prevents materials from scattering and blowing out.
- The load in the body must be distributed evenly so that its parts do not protrude above the level of the sides.
- It is not allowed to exceed the carrying capacity of the vehicle used during transportation.
- If the cargo is heavy and occupies a small area, it is placed at the front side of the car.
- The driver must have a bill of lading, a delivery agreement, as well as other documents required when transporting regular cargo.
- The route is specially designed in such a way that the vehicle moves along convenient roads or along the shortest route.
- It is very important to strictly follow traffic rules and adhere to the recommended speed limit, since some bulk cargo may ignite due to friction during transportation.
Transportation of bulk cargo by rail
- When transporting bulk cargo by rail, covering the car with an awning is necessary only if there is a risk of it being blown out or damaged by precipitation. Some grain crops can only be transported in a covered container or wagon.
- Before loading, all cracks, if any, should be sealed to prevent loaded materials from spilling through them.
- If the car has a side loading, it is necessary to provide protection to prevent spillage when opening the doors.
The remaining rules correspond to the standards developed for the transportation of ordinary cargo.
