What is the pressure of the dry bulk cargo tank?

• A. 80 psi or less
• B. 100-500 psi
• C. 25 psi or less
• D. 3000-5000 psi

Answer: (A)

Dry bulk cargo tanks are not designed to carry high-pressure contents. They operate near atmospheric pressure, with a design or working limit kept low to protect the tank structure and to control any air movement during loading and unloading. That’s why the typical stated pressure for these tanks is 80 psi or less—it accommodates normal venting and slight pressure changes without risking damage. Higher pressures, like 100–500 psi or thousands of psi, would require much heavier construction and aren’t appropriate for dry bulk compartments. So saying 80 psi or less reflects the safe, low-pressure operation of dry bulk cargo tanks.