The investigation into the accident involving the Devon Bay bulk carrier, which sank near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, is investigating the liquification of the cargo being transported as the primary working theory.
The Singapore-flagged vessel was en route from a port in the Philippines to the port of Yangjiang, China. It was carrying approximately 55,000 tonnes of nickel ore. This type of cargo is classified as Group A under the IMSBC Code, meaning it is classified as cargo prone to liquification when its moisture content exceeds the permissible limit.
According to preliminary data, excessive moisture content in the cargo or water ingress into the cargo holds occurred during the voyage. In rough seas, this could have caused the cargo to liquefy, causing it to shift dynamically within the holds, and, consequently, a sharp deterioration in the vessel’s stability. The emergency situation developed rapidly, ultimately leading to the vessel’s sinking.
👥 The Devon Bay had a crew of 21 on board, all Filipino citizens. As a result of the search and rescue operation, some of the crew were rescued, two sailors were killed, and several crew members remain missing.
🔎 An investigation into the incident is being conducted with the participation of the flag state, the shipowner, and insurers. Particular attention is being paid to:
— compliance with IMSBC Code requirements;
— the correct determination and documentation of the TML (Transportable Moisture Limit);
— procedures for sampling and monitoring the actual cargo moisture content during loading.
The loss of mineral cargo remains one of the most dangerous causes of instability in bulk carriers, with accidents developing rapidly and leaving the crew with minimal time to take effective emergency measures.
Ліквефікація мінеральних вантажів залишається однією з найнебезпечніших причин втрати стійкості балкерів, за якої аварія розвивається стрімко і залишає екіпажу мінімальний час для вжиття ефективних аварійних заходів.