What is dynamic separation?

Dynamic separation occurs during a voyage where the moisture in the cargo migrates to the
surface of a hold as the cargo compacts from underneath due to vibration and vessel
movement. This occurs when the cargo contains enough small particles that stop the moisture
draining from the cargo.

As a slurry of water and fine particles collects on the top of the cargo it creates a free surface
effect in the hold. Over time, the sloshing motion of the slurry can deposit loose cargo
unevenly in the hold. The research also shows that different wave periods of the slurry in
different holds results in the ship having a peculiar motion rather than a regular roll period in
a seaway.

Modelling shows that over time, cargo collects on one side of the holds. As this occurs in
adjacent holds, the ship’s weight distribution and stability become affected. The result in
more extreme circumstances is the ship progressively listing to one side. As this list
increases, so does the action of the free surface water, potentially undermining the surface of
the cargo, resulting in a shift and capsize.

For more information on liquefaction, please refer to sections 7 and 8 of the International
Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code.
Dynamic separation and liquefaction are two distinct phenomena that can occur with bulk
cargoes on ships, each posing unique hazards to the stability and safety of the vessel.
Understanding these differences is crucial for safe cargo handling and maritime operations.

### Dynamic Separation

**Dynamic separation** refers to the process where certain types of bulk cargoes,
particularly those with a high moisture content, separate into layers when subjected to the
motion of the ship. This can lead to free surface effects, adversely affecting the ship’s
stability.

**Characteristics:**

- **Cargo Types**: Typically occurs with cargoes that are partially saturated with water,
such as mineral concentrates.

- **Process**: During the voyage, vibrations and movements of the ship cause the denser,
solid particles to settle at the bottom while water and fine particles rise to the top.

- **Formation of a Free Surface**: The separation creates a free-flowing liquid layer on top,
which can shift with the ship's movements.

- **Stability Impact**: The free surface effect from the liquid layer can reduce the ship's
stability, increasing the risk of capsizing.

### Liquefaction

**Liquefaction** occurs when a bulk cargo with high moisture content turns from a solid or
semi-solid state into a fluid-like state under the influence of compaction and vibrations during
the voyage.

**Characteristics:**

- **Cargo Types**: Commonly associated with cargoes like iron ore fines, nickel ore, and
other finely divided mineral ores.
- **Process**: As the ship moves, vibrations and compaction cause the water trapped
between particles to exert pressure, reducing the friction between particles, leading the cargo
to behave like a liquid.

- **Fluid Behavior**: Liquefied cargo can flow within the hold, creating a free surface
effect.

- **Stability Impact**: The fluid cargo can shift rapidly, causing a sudden and severe loss of
stability, potentially leading to capsizing.

### Key Differences

1. **Nature of Process:**

- **Dynamic Separation**: Involves the separation of components within the cargo,

leading to a liquid layer on top.

- **Liquefaction**: The entire cargo mass transitions into a fluid-like state.

2. **Cargo Behavior:**

- **Dynamic Separation**: Results in a layered structure with a solid base and a liquid top.

- **Liquefaction**: Causes the whole cargo to behave like a liquid, leading to internal
shifts and sloshing.

3. **Stability Effects:**

- **Dynamic Separation**: Primarily creates a free surface effect on top, impacting

stability.

- **Liquefaction**: Causes more severe and unpredictable shifts in cargo, greatly

endangering stability.

4. **Prevention and Mitigation:**

- **Dynamic Separation**: Managing moisture content and ensuring proper trimming can
help reduce the risk.
 - **Liquefaction**: Strict monitoring of moisture content (Transportable Moisture Limit,
or TML) and ensuring cargo is below the Flow Moisture Point (FMP) before loading.

### Summary

Both dynamic separation and liquefaction present serious risks to ship stability, but they
occur through different mechanisms and affect the cargo in distinct ways. Understanding
these differences helps in implementing appropriate safety measures and handling procedures
to mitigate these risks.