What do chemical codes classify cargo tanks based on?

The classification of cargo tanks using chemical codes primarily involves their construction. This means that the codes take into account the materials used in the fabrication of the tanks, their design characteristics, and their ability to safely handle specific types of cargo. This classification is crucial because different chemicals require different types of tank construction to ensure safety, compatibility, and integrity during transport.

For instance, tanks designed for corrosive substances may need to be constructed from materials resistant to those chemicals, whereas tanks for non-hazardous substances might not require such robust construction. The codes ensure that tanks are built to meet the necessary safety standards that reflect their intended use, which is pivotal for preventing leaks, spills, or other hazardous incidents during transport.

Other options like operational capacity, age and maintenance status, or content types might all be factors in assessing a tank's usability or safety, but the core classification according to chemical codes specifically hinges on the tank’s construction attributes.