Various forms of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) are described in the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code. With the 2025 amendment to the IMSBC Code, DRI (D) has been newly introduced. The International Group of P&I Clubs, in conjunction with Dr J H Burgoyne & Partners LLP (Burgoynes) with input from INTERCARGO, has prepared the attached circular on the handling and transport of this cargo.
The principal forms of DRI are Type A (hot-molded briquettes) and Type B (pellets). Fines generated during manufacture and handling processes were conventionally shipped under DRI (C). However, the IMSBC Code defines the moisture content of this cargo as not exceeding 0.3%. Due to handling practices, such as outdoor storage and handling in rain, the moisture content sometimes exceeds 0.3%. To transport such cargo, DRI (D) (By-product fines with a moisture content of at least 2%) was introduced as the fourth DRI schedule.
In the IMSBC Code, DRI (D) is classified both as Group A, which is liable to liquefy, and Group B as Materials Hazardous only in Bulk (MHB). In particular, the main hazard related to DRI (D) transport is the generation of flammable hydrogen gas in the upper space of the cargo hold, and the code focus on the measurement and control of hydrogen gas concentration through surface ventilation.
Please refer to the attached circular for further details. It should be noted that this circular is for guidance only and the relevant entries from the IMSBC Code, which are appended to this Circular, remain the primary source of carriage requirements which should be relied upon.
All Clubs in the International Group have issued a similarly worded circular.