During the oil discharge process, when should the main cargo pumps be turned off?

The primary reason for turning off the main cargo pumps when the remainder is stripped to one tank is based on operational safety and efficiency. Stripping refers to the process of removing the last remaining quantities of cargo from the tanks. This step is critical because it ensures that the remaining oil is fully transferred and minimizes any potential hazards associated with residual oil.

Once there is only one tank left containing cargo, it is sensible and safe to halt the operation of the main cargo pumps to prevent running them dry, which could cause damage to the pumps. Additionally, this practice allows for better monitoring of the final quantities and conditions of the cargo. Implementing this procedure not only supports effective cargo management but also aligns with safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with over-pumping or equipment failure during the discharge process.

Turning off the pumps based on the occurrence of an overfill alarm, waiting for a predetermined time, or leaving the tanks completely empty could lead to unsafe conditions or inefficient handling procedures. Therefore, the optimal practice is to turn off the main cargo pumps once the stripping is nearly complete and limited to just one tank.