New Regulations for Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) By-Product Fines
Key Ideas
  • Introduction of DRI Type D with a moisture content of at least 2% as a mandatory part of the IMSBC Code from January 2025.
  • The need for a collective industry effort for a long-term safe solution prompted the introduction of DRI (D) by Amendment 07-23 to the Code.
  • DRI (D) fines present a lower risk of self-heating but a higher risk of hydrogen generation, requiring controlled mechanical ventilation and gas concentration monitoring.
  • The International Group clubs have supported revised DRI schedules, including the latest DRI (D), due to past incidents and hazards associated with hydrogen emissions.
The International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargo (IMSBC) Code has issued a circular introducing a new mandatory entry for Type D Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) by-product fines with a moisture content of at least 2%. This development, effective from January 2025, follows the industry's recognition of the hazards posed by DRI, notably the generation of hydrogen and risks of self-heating and explosion. The addition of DRI (D) to the Code came as a result of collaborative efforts within the industry to address the challenges of handling DRI fines that often exceed the low moisture levels permitted for other types of DRI. The new schedule for DRI (D) emphasizes the importance of ventilation and gas concentration monitoring to control hydrogen levels within cargo holds. This approach differs from the requirements for other DRI types, such as DRI (B) and DRI (C), which necessitate inert gas purging to prevent explosive atmospheres. The International Group clubs have advocated for these revisions in response to past incidents involving DRI cargoes and the potential dangers associated with hydrogen emissions. The updated regulations aim to enhance safety practices and mitigate the risks associated with transporting DRI (D) by-product fines.
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