MSC 85/26/Add.2 ANNEX 3 RESOLUTION MSC.268(85) - US Coast ...

MSC 85/26/Add.2ANNEX 3Page 3614.2 Apparatus and materialsThe apparatus (figure 4-1) consists of a trough of internal dimensions 150 mm x 150 mm x 500 mm,open at the top. The trough is constructed of square-meshed gauze (preferably stainless steel)with a mesh width of about 1.5 mm and a wire thickness of 1.0 mm supported on a frame madefrom, for example, 15 mm wide, 2 mm thick steel bars. The gauze at each end of the trough maybe replaced by 1.5 mm thick, 150 mm x 150 mm stainless steel plates. The trough should berested on a suitable support. Fertilizers with a particle size distribution such that a significantamount falls through the mesh of the trough should be tested in a trough of smaller mesh gauze,or alternatively in a trough lined with gauze of a smaller mesh. During initiation sufficient heatshould be provided and maintained to establish a uniform decomposition front. Two alternativeheating methods are recommended, viz:ABCDAluminium or stainless steel sheathing (thickness 3 mm)Insulating plate (thickness 5 mm)Aluminium foil or stainless steel plate (thickness 3 mm)Position of heating device in trough4.2.1 Electrical heatingI:\MSC\85\26-Add-2.docFigure 4-2 – Electrical heating device (capacity 250 W)An electrical heating element (capacity 250 W) enclosed in a stainless steel box is placed insideand at one end of the trough (figure 4-2). The dimensions of the stainless steel boxare 145 mm x 145 mm x 10 mm, and the wall thickness is 3 mm. The side of the box which isnot in contact with the fertilizer should be protected with a heat shield (insulation plate 5 mmthick). The heating side of the box may be protected with aluminium foil or a stainlesssteel plate.