AGT 3601

Thermal fluid heaters are examined by a marine inspector at the inspection for certification, to determine that the complete unit is in safe and satisfactory condition. MI was unable to verify alarms and shutdowns due to inability of barge rep to perform required tests. Barge is restricted from cargo operations utilizing the thermal fluid heater until MI can observe tests. 46CFR61.30-15

After receiving an application for inspection, the OCMI will inspect a tank vessel in his or her jurisdiction once every five years. The OCMI will ensure that every tank vessel is of structure suitable for the carriage of flammable and/or combustible liquids in bulk and for the proper grade or grades of cargo the vessel carries while in service. If the OCMI deems it necessary, he or she may direct the vessel to be put in motion, and may adopt any other suitable means to test the tank vessel and it's equipment. During cargo tank internal examination, inspectors were not able to verify welds and structural integrity of bottom deck plating in port and starboard tanks 1 through 5 due to covering of hardened product. Prior to carriage of cargo, provide a gauging report of non destructive testing of tank top and raised trunks. Ultrasonic testing with three transverse belts of deck will be conducted forward, amidships, and aft of each cargo tank.

When major alterations or major repairs of tank vessels become necessary the work shall be done under the direction of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, and shall be done in accordance with the regulations in effect for new construction insofar as possible. When minor alterations or minor repairs of tank vessels become necessary the work shall be done under the direction of the Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, and shall be in accordance with the regulations in effect at the vessel was contracted for or built, or in accordance with the regulations in effect for new construction insofar as possible. During Internal Structural Examination, the following discrepancies were noted: No. 1 port void (second bay) trip frame had broken weld. No. 2 port void floor frame (third bay) was damaged approximately five feet; crop and renew to original. No. 1 starboard void (second, third and fourth bay) trip frames were tripped. Crop and renew to original.

Thermal Fluid Heater not ready for inspection to perform internal inspection. Inspect internal chamber prior to operating TFH.

Following fire to STBD prime mover, Repair/replace prime mover and test e-shutdown to satisfaction of attending MI prior to conducting cargo ops w/that prime mover.

Flame screens found clogged with cargo residue, improperly installed, or missing from P/Vs. Replace all flame screens on P/V valves.

Excessive oily residue found underneath of the Thermal Fluid Heater and Generator, creating a fire hazard. Clean residue from under equipment.

Numerous P/V valves found missing top bolts. Replace missing bolts.

Flamescreens on the gooseneck vents for both 6 Oil tanks found clogged with residue. Replace all.

Serial numbers on the test records for all transfer hoses do not match. Working pressure on hose listed as 200psi, not 150 psi, and hoses are only tested to 225psi. Hoses must be properly marked with serial number and MAWP, and retested hydrostatically.

Thermal Fluid Heater generator exhaust lagging found soaked with oil. Replace lagging.

Make Proper repairs to the #4 STBD Cargo Tank Tops. 2 divots ~ 7 ft fwd and 4 ft inboard of the tanks meter sticks.

Demostrate proper operation of all shutdowns for the THermal Fluid Heater prior to use of system

All PV valves experiencing difficulty in rising and falling freely. Repair all PV valves on cargo tanks. No cargo whatsoever may be carried until repairs are completed and def check by USCG conducted.

The company failed to conduct the required COI on the AGT 3601 within the permitted three-month time frame prior to the anniversay date of the COI as required by 46 CFR 31.01-15.

Fire extinguishers are mounted in an unapproved cylindrical tube. Provide proper mounting bracket for fire extinguishers. 46 CFR 162.028-3(g).

Flame screens on PV Valves are wasted or completely covered in oil. Replace flame screens on PV Valve.

Barge grounded in the Intracoastal Waterway at approximately mile marker 178 on the night on 04 April. Barge owner must provide proof that all voids were entered and a survey conducted to determine the extent of damage sustained to the vessel. Survey must be completed prior to loading of cargo.