Key aspects for effective sampling on board tankers

In the hydrocarbon industry, sampling accuracy and representativeness is essential to ensure that the product meets international and contractual standards. Proper sampling in the cargo tanks of a tanker requires a technical and rigorous approach to obtain a sample that is as representative as possible, avoiding any type of contamination and ensuring the safety of the equipment involved.

Below are some critical aspects that we take into account at BZ CONSULTING to achieve reliable and safe sampling:

Inspection of sampling equipment: Ensuring that the hermetic sampler is in optimal condition, clean and unaltered is essential to ensure the reliability of the sampling. Likewise, all necessary materials such as bottles, drums, funnels, among others, must be clean and dry to avoid contamination of the product.

Representative sampling: Choosing the right sampling method is essential to reflect variations that may exist in the composition of the product within a tank. The sampling process on board a tanker is normally based on the use of a hermetic, or semi-hermetic, sampling instrument designed to take samples from different levels of the tank (Top, Middle and Bottom). This method helps to obtain a comprehensive profile of the product. It is important to know in advance the reference height of each tank, the level or height of the product and the free water level, in order to determine the correct levels at which each level sample should be taken. Subsequently, the level samples from each tank are mixed to obtain a composite sample of the tank. Finally, the composite samples from each tank can be mixed, proportionally, to obtain a composite sample of all the tanks on the ship.

Strong safety conditions: The handling of hydrocarbons requires specific safety protocols. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the measurement of toxic and flammable gases are essential measures to maintain personnel safety during sampling.\

Sample preservation and documentation: Samples must be stored in approved containers, properly labeled and protected from external factors such as heat and light, to avoid alterations. The documentation details the process to ensure traceability and support of the results obtained.

A well-conducted sampling not only ensures compliance with quality standards, but also protects the reputation of companies involved in the hydrocarbon supply chain. At BZ CONSULTING, the implementation of good sampling practices represents a commitment to accuracy, safety and transparency in the management of this key resource for the energy industry.

NOTE: Photographic record taken with our ATEX Zone 2 Iphone SE-3 Intrinsically Safe (Ex-Proof) Phone.