Certification of Cargo Containers

Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers

Rules for

Certification of

Cargo Containers

Rules for

Certification of

Cargo Containers

1998

American Bureau of Shipping Incorporated by Act of the Legislature of the State of New York 1862

American Bureau of Shipping

Two World Trade Center, 106th Floor

New York, NY 10048 USA

Foreword

The American Bureau of Shipping, with the aid of industry, published the first edition of these Rules as a Guide in 1968. Since that time, the Rules have reflected changes in the industry brought about by development of standards, international regulations and requests from the intermodal container industry. These changes are evident by the inclusion of programs for the certification of both corner fittings and container repair facilities in the fourth edition, published in 1983.

In this fifth edition, the Bureau will again provide industry with an ever broadening scope of services. In response to requests, requirements for the newest program, the Certification of Marine Container Chassis, are included. Additionally, the International Maritime Organization’s requirements concerning cryogenic tank containers are included in Section 9.

On 21 May 1985, the ABS Special Committee on Cargo Containers met and adopted the Rules contained herein.

On 6 November 1997, the ABS Special Committee on Cargo Containers met and adopted updates/revisions to the subject Rules. The intent of the proposed changes to the 1987 edition of the ABS “Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers” was to bring the existing Rules in line with present design practice. The updated proposals incorporated primarily the latest changes to IACS Unified Requirements and ISO requirements.

The effective date of the Rule changes is 13 May 1998 in line with other 1998 ABS Rules.

Contents

Rules for Certification of Cargo Containers

SECTION

1 Conditions of Certification........................................................................................................... 1 2 Design Review............................................................................................................................... 5 3 Materials and Fabrication............................................................................................................. 7 4 Quality Assurance.........................................................................................................................11 5 Definitions.....................................................................................................................................13 6 Design Considerations ..................................................................................................................15 7 Testing............................................................................................................................................33 8 Marking..........................................................................................................................................37

9 Tank Containers............................................................................................................................43 10 Thermal Cargo Containers...........................................................................................................49 11 Container Surveys.........................................................................................................................55 12 Certification of Container Repair Facilities................................................................................57 13 Certification of Container Refrigeration Machinery...................................................................59 14 Certification of Carbon Steel Container Corner Castings..........................................................63 15 Certification of Container Chassis...............................................................................................65

Appendices

Section 8 Appendix A Approval plates required for containers certified in accordance with the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) and the International Convention for the Transport of Containers under Customs Seal (TIR).

Section 15 Appendix B Association of American Railroads Container Chassis for TOFC Service Standard Specification M-943-80.

Appendix C International Road Federation Limits of Motor Vehicle Sizes and Weights.

Section 1 Appendix D International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC).

Section 1 Conditions of Certification

1.1 Certification

The Certification process consists of a) the development of Rules, Guides, standards and other criteria for the design and construction of containers, for materials and equipment, b) the review of design and survey during and after construction to verify compliance with such Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria and c) the issuance of certificates when such compliance has been verified.

The Rules, Guides and standards are developed by Bureau staff and passed upon by committees made up of container manufacturers, naval architects, marine engineers, shipbuilders, engine builders, steel makers and by other technical, operating and scientific personnel associated with the worldwide maritime and container industry. Theoretical research and development, established engineering disciplines, as well as satisfactory service experience are utilized in their development and promulgation. The Bureau and its committees can act only upon such theoretical and practical considerations in developing Rules, Guides and standards.

1.3 Certificates and Reports

Plan review and surveys during and after construction are conducted by the Bureau to verify to itself and its committees that a container is in compliance with the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau and to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. All reports and certificates are issued solely for the use of the Bureau, its committees, its clients and other authorized entities.

1.5 Approval of the Prototype Container

Certification will be based primarily upon the container meeting the design considerations in Section 6, the performance tests in Section 7 for all containers, and additional design considerations and tests in Sections 9 and 10 for tank containers and thermal containers. When a prototype container meets the requirements of the Rules and has passed the required tests the Prototype Test Certificate will be issued.

1.7 Certification of Production

Certification of the production units will be based upon the satisfactory conclusion of container plan review, prototype approval, the production tests required by Section 7, the acceptance of the manufacturer’s quality control procedures and the survey of each container. Additional tests are required for tank containers and for thermal containers as set forth in Sections 9 and 10. The production units, when considered acceptable to the Bureau, will be certified and a Container Production Certificate issued.

When a container is accepted for general service a decal, as shown in Figure 1.1, signifying that the container is in compliance with the Rules, is to be affixed to the container. When a container is accepted for special service under 1.17.2, a decal as shown in Figure 1.2 signifying that the container meets the requirements for its intended service is to be affixed to the container.

1.9 Optional Inspection

When requested by an Owner the Bureau may also inspect containers in accordance with Owner specifications in addition to the inspection required by the Rules for certification.

1.11 Representations as to Certification

Certification is a representation by the Bureau as to the structural fitness for a particular use or service in accordance with its Rules, Guides and standards. The Rules of the American Bureau of Shipping are not meant as a substitute for the independent judgment of professional designers, naval architects and marine engineers nor as a substitute for the quality control procedures of shipbuilders, container manufacturers, steel makers, suppliers, manufacturers and sellers of marine materials, machinery or equipment. The Bureau, being a technical society can only act through Surveyors or others who are believed by it to be skilled and competent.

The Bureau represents solely to the container manufacturer, container Owner or client of the Bureau that when certifying it will use due diligence in the development of Rules, Guides and standards and in using normally applied testing standards, procedures and techniques as called for by the Rules, Guides, standards and other criteria of the Bureau. The Bureau further represents to the container manufacturer, container Owner or other client of the Bureau that its certificates and reports evidence compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards or other criteria of the Bureau in accordance with the terms of such certificate or report. Under no circumstances whatsoever are these representations to be deemed to relate to any third party.

1.13 Responsibility and Liability

Nothing contained in any certificate or report is to be deemed to relieve any designer, builder, Owner, manufacturer, seller, supplier, repairer, operator, other entity or person of any warranty express or implied. Any certificate or report evidences compliance only with one or more of the Rules, Guides, standards, or other criteria of the American Bureau of Shipping and is issued solely for the use of the Bureau, its committees, its clients, or other authorized entities. Nothing contained in any certificate, report, plan or document review or approval is to be deemed in any way a representation or statement beyond those contained in the paragraphs entitled, “Representations as to Certification.” The validity, applicability and interpretation of any certificate, report, plan or document review are governed by the Rules, Guides, and standards of the American Bureau of Shipping who shall remain the sole judge thereof.

1.15 Authorization

The Committee of the American Bureau of Shipping has authorized the Surveyors to the Bureau to carry out the necessary surveys, when requested to do so by the owners or builders of cargo containers, to insure compliance with the following requirements and to certify compliance.

1.17 Scope

1.17.1 General Service

These Rules are intended to apply to new cargo containers which are:

Of a permanent character and accordingly strong enough to remain serviceable for a reasonable period after repeated use.

Specially designed to facilitate the carriage of goods, by one or more modes of transport, without intermediate reloading.

Fitted with devices permitting their ready handling, particularly their transfer from one mode of transport to another.

Containers which do not meet the criteria stated herein will be specially considered.

1.17.2 Special Service

The Bureau is prepared to consider special modified requirements applicable to cargo containers where it can be shown that the special requirements are consistent with the intended service conditions. In such case a prototype is to meet performance tests based on intended service.

1.19 Containers Not Built Under Surveillance

Individual existing containers, or sample units from an existing container series, which have not been built to the requirements of these Rules, but which are submitted for certification, are to be subjected to testing in accordance with the requirements of these Rules. Where found satisfactory, they will be certified accordingly.

1.21 Approval of Modified Containers

The owner of a container which has been approved in accordance with the requirements of the CSC and has been modified in a manner resulting in structural changes is to notify the Bureau of those changes. The Bureau may require retesting of the modified container as appropriate prior to recertification.

1.23 Loading, Handling, and Securing

These Rules are published on the understanding that responsibility for securing containers, for control of stacking loads, and for reasonable handling and loading, as well as for avoidance of distributions of weight which are likely to set up abnormally severe stresses in containers, does not rest upon the Committee, or the Bureau.

1.25 Governmental and Regulatory Agency Requirements

When authorized by an Administration signatory to international conventions, and upon request, the certification procedure may be extended and containers surveyed for compliance with the provisions of the conventions, and certified thereto in the manner prescribed.

The International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) is an international agreement to which ABS is authorized to certify containers. As an assist to the reader, the convention is reproduced in Appendix F.

1.27 Disagreement and Interpretation

Disagreement regarding the interpretation of the Rules, is to be referred to the Bureau for resolution. In case of disagreement between the Owners or builders and the Surveyors to the Bureau regarding the material, workmanship, extent of repairs, or application of these Rules relating to any container certified or proposed to be certified by this Bureau, an appeal may be made in writing to the Committee, who will order a special survey to be held. Should the opinion of the Surveyor be confirmed, the expense of this special survey is to be paid by the party appealing.

be affixed to each Bureau-approved cargo container that meets the requirements of its intended service.

Design Review Section 2

Section 2 Design Review

2.1 Application for Certification

The application for the certification of containers is to include a statement that the containers will be built in conformance to these Rules; that they will be manufactured under a quality control program acceptable to the Bureau; that they will be available for inspection during manufacture and testing and that they will be tested in accordance with prescribed procedures. The application is also to affirm that changes in design, materials, or fabrication methods will not be made without written approval.

Each application is to be accompanied by plans and data of the container to be certified. The plans are to delineate the arrangements and structural details of the containers as they are to be built. In addition to the plans a test agenda is to be submitted which details the actual load values and identifies the load medium to be used during the testing of the prototype.

2.3 New Design Series

For the application of each design series to be certified, plans and data including at least the following are to be submitted:

ABS Application form—one copy*

ABS Container data form—one copy*

ABS Data Form Supplement for Thermal Containers [if applicable]—one copy*

ABS Data Form Supplement for Tank Containers [if applicable]—one copy* ABS Material identification form—four copies* Following drawings—four copies each:

General arrangement

Sub-assemblies

Detail of components

Markings, including data plates

Prototype test agenda—one copy

Quality control procedures—one-time requirement for each manufacturing facility.

*To assist clients in providing the information necessary for the certification of the container the Bureau has printed application forms, available upon request.

2.5 Approved Design Series

For the application of additional units to be certified to an approved design series, the submittal is to include at least the following:

ABS Container Data form—one copy*

ABS Data Form Supplement for Thermal Containers [if applicable]—one copy*

ABS Data Form Supplement for Tank Containers [if applicable]—one copy*

Marking drawing—if owner has changed—four copies

2.7 Changes

When changes are being made to an application or to an approved design series, the submittal is to include at least the following:

ABS Container Data form—one copy*

ABS Data Form Supplement for Thermal Containers [if applicable]—one copy*

ABS Data Form Supplement for Tank Containers [if applicable]—one copy*

ABS Material Identification form—one copy*

Design comparison table

Marking drawing—if owner has changed—four copies

General assembly, subassembly and detail drawings as appropriate showing any revision from original design—four copies

All changes will be reviewed and if the modifications are deemed significant retesting of those parts of the container affected by the modification may be required.

2.9 Certification to Other Requirements

When the application includes a request for certification to governmental requirements, international conventions, or other standards, the submittal is to include the necessary information required for the reviews.

Design Review Section 2

Section 3 Materials and Fabrication

3.1 Material Standards

Except where specifically approved, all structural materials are to conform to an established specification or recognized national standard. In the selection of materials due regard is to be given to established practices in the country in which the material is produced and the purpose for which the material is intended, the expected service, and the nature of construction of the container.

3.3 Welders

The Surveyor is to be satisfied that the welders are proficient in the type of work that they are called upon to do either through requiring any or all of the tests outlined in the following paragraphs or through due consideration of the system, training apprenticeship, plant testing, inspection, etc.

3.5 Qualification

The tests, if required for qualification in the various positions for different materials and thicknesses, are given in Figures 3.1 through 3.4. Test positions are flat (F), horizontal (H), vertical (V), and overhead (OH). Testing in V and OH qualifies the welder for all positions.

Alternatively, upon the request of the employer, the welder may be qualified by use of radiography tests except for gas metal arc welding with the shortcircuit transfer technique, for which the tests shown in Figures 3.1 through 3.4 are required.

FIGURE 3.1 Square Groove Butt Joint

Material:	6.0 mm (¼ in.) Sheet to Casting
Test Position:	F H V OH
Qualifies for:	F F, H F, H, V F, H, OH

Specimen: The plate is to be 150 mm (6 in.) x 150 mm (6 in.). The weld is to be a minimum of 150 mm (6 in.) in length and is to be welded from one side only. The root gap is to be 2.0 mm (⁵/64 in.).

Test: The corner casting is to be secured and the sheet is to be bent 180º towards the corner fitting. The axis of the bend is to be parallel to the axis of the weld. Criterion: A weld will be considered satisfactory if:

a. No cracks are evident after bending.

b. Due to the severity of the test, cracks do occur; but the fractured face shows no evidence of defects, and the throat is equal to or greater than the thickness of the sheet steel. Breaks in the base metal shall not be cause for weld rejection.

FIGURE 3.2 T-Joint Fillet Weld

Material:

3.0 (Z, in.) Sheet to Casting and

6.0 (Zv in.) Sheet to Casting

Test Position:

F H V

Qualifies for:

F F, H F, H, V

F, H, OH

Specimens: The plates are to be 150 mm (6 in.) x 150 mm (6 in.). The welds are to be a minimum of 150 mm (6 in.) in length. The throat size of the fillet weld is to be equal to the thickness of the thinner material.

Test: The corner fitting is to be secured and the sheet is to be bent back and forth until failure.

Criterion: A weld will be considered satisfactory if the fracture surface shows complete fusion at the faying surface.

FIGURE 3.3 Square Groove Butt Joint

Material: 1.2 mm (.048 in.) to 1.2 mm (.048 in.) sheet

Test Position: F H V OH

Qualifies for: F F, H F, H, V F, H, OH

Specimen: The plates are to be 150 mm (6 in.) x 150 mm (6 in.). The weld is to be a minimum of 150 mm (6 in.) in length. The root gap is to be 1.0 mm (C v in.).

Test: One sheet is to be secured and the other is to be bent 180º back towards the held end. The axis of the bend is to be parallel to the axis of the weld.

Criterion: A weld will be considered satisfactory if:

a. No cracks are evident after bending.

FIGURE 3.4 Lap Joint Fillet Weld

Material:

1.2 mm (.048 in.) to 1.2 mm (.048 in.) Sheet and

2.0 mm (.080 in.) to 4.0 mm (.157 in.) Sheet

Test Position:

F H V OH

Qualifies for:

F F, H F, H, V F, H, OH

Specimen: The top plates are to be 150 mm (6 in.) x 150 mm (6 in.). The bottom plates are to be a minimum of 200 mm (8 in.) x 200 mm (8 in.) The welds are to be a minimum of 150 mm (6 in.) in length. The throat of the fillet weld is to be equal to the thickness of the thinner material.

Test: A cold chisel is to be wedged between the two sheets until failure.

Criterion: A weld will be considered satisfactory if the fracture surface shows complete fusion at the faying surface.

Quality Control Section 4

Section 4 Quality Control

4.1 Quality Control Manual

The principal manufacturers engaged in the production of containers are to submit a quality control manual which gives in detail those inspections and controls which are to be followed to assure that the quality of the production units are comparable to that of the prototype. The quality control manual is to contain the information listed in 4.1.1 through 4.1.5. This manual is to be initially submitted to ABS for review in order that compliance may be verified with this section of the Rules. Subsequent to a satisfactory review by ABS, the manufacturing facility is subject to an audit by the attending Surveyor to confirm compliance with the quality control procedures outlined in the submitted manual. All changes or revisions to the manual including any quality control procedures are to be submitted to the Bureau for review.

4.1.1 Description of Organization A description of the manufacturers organization consisting of management, purchasing, production, and quality control functions is to be shown in the manual. Evidence to support adequate manning levels of inspection at the various manufacturing stages is to be provided by the manufacturer.

4.1.1.1 The line of responsibility for the quality control function is to be independent from the production function.

4.1.1.2 The quality control function is to be shown to be adequately staffed in order to maintain control of the purchased materials, manufacturing processes, testing as applicable, and final acceptance of the finished container.

4.1.1.3 Arrangements for introducing approved design and production changes to ensure that they are acted upon at the appropriate production stage are to be addressed in the manufacturer’s manual or procedures.

4.1.1.4 The manual or procedures is to address the manufacturer’s system of performing internal audits and corrective actions.

4.1.1.5 It is to be shown in the manual or procedures that compliance with these Rules is evidenced during the ABS review process and demonstrated to the attending Surveyor during periodic audits of the manufacturer.

4.1.2 Material Identification Methods are to be established and covered in the manual or procedures to control and identify all material, including methods for welding electrode identification. Structural material identification arrangements such as mill test reports (MTR’s), material purchase orders, etc. are to be sufficient to enable the MTR to be traceable to the material.

4.1.2.1 Arrangements to ensure that supplies and services from a sub-supplier meet with the design requirements are to be addressed in the manual or procedures.

4.1.2.2 Identifiable test data for materials and components is to be made available for the attending Surveyor.

4.1.2.3 Arrangements are to be made by the manufacturer to demonstrate proper storage of stock materials and spare parts which is consistent with good industry practice.

4.1.3 Workmanship Quality

Methods are to be established to assure workmanship of consistently acceptable quality. Jigs or fixtures suitable for maintaining dimensional accuracy during repeated use are to be provided at the mainframe assembly points or locations. The manual or procedures are to address that the jigs or fixtures are periodically verified by the manufacturer’s quality control function.

4.1.4 Control Records

The procedures for maintaining records are to be adequate to assure the proper identification of material and satisfactory checks on workmanship.

4.1.4.1 A system of documentation at the stages of manufacturing containers is to be covered in the manufacturer’s manual or procedures. The system employed is to be demonstrated to the attending Surveyor. This system may be comprised of traveler forms, inspection checklists or procedures evidencing inspections being performed at the various stages of manufacturing.

4.1.4.2 The records of inspection, tests, and results of examinations and corrections are to be complete and reliable for each container. The record of inspection is to contain the manufacturer’s identification numbers, dates of delivery and names and addresses of purchasers.

Quality Control Section 4

4.1.5 Fabrication Quality Control Methods The weld procedures and inspection techniques employed in the fabrication of containers are to be to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. Special attention is to be given to the methods for proving the adequacy of the corner fittings, and their attachment to the main structural members. The quality of corner fittings may be verified by certification in accordance with Section 14. In any circumstance, copies of the certified MTR’s for the corner fittings are to be made available to the attending Surveyor.

4.1.5.1 All stages of the container manufacturing as shown above together with the final dimensional examinations necessary are to be under the responsibility of the quality control function.

4.1.5.2 The rejection procedure and rejected component identification arrangements are to be clearly defined by the manufacturer.

4.1.5.3 All welding to be performed in the fabrication of the container or its subassemblies is to be carried out by qualified personnel in the positions for which they are qualified to weld.

4.2 Quality Control Surveillance

The manufacturer’s production facilities and quality control methods are to be available for audit by the Surveyor during his periodic visits. When, in the judgment of the Surveyor, unacceptable workmanship, faulty material, or inadequate quality control procedures are evident, certification may be suspended pending corrective action to the Surveyor’s satisfaction.

4.2.1 All weld procedure specifications (WPS), procedure qualification records (PQR), and welder’s performance qualification records are to be in accordance with recognized standards and are to be reviewed to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.

4.2.2 All nondestructive examinations performed by the manufacturer are to be accomplished by personnel qualified to conduct such inspections in accordance with recognized standards. Where nondestructive examinations are performed, it is to be demonstrated that such testing is properly recorded by the manufacturer and found to be to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.

4.3 Factory Approval Certificate

Manufacturing and testing facilities for proving prototype and production containers are to be approved by ABS. The scope of the approval process will include that the following steps be completed:

4.3.1 The manufacturer is to submit a written application for ABS Factory Approval.

4.3.2 The manufacturer is to submit three (3) copies of their quality control manual and applicable procedures as listed in these Rules. Supplemental information in the way of company brochures, profile, description of facilities, equipment, storage, process flow diagrams, etc. may be provided for reference purposes.

4.3.2.1 A review letter is issued to the manufacturer describing the evaluation of all elements of the manufacturer’s system governing the control and quality of the product.

4.3.3 An audit of the manufacturer’s facility is performed after issuance of the ABS review letter to the manufacturer. This audit is performed by an ABS Surveyor working in close cooperation with the manufacturer’s representative, to confirm implementation of the quality control system.

4.3.4 The approval of the manufacturer’s facility is contingent upon successful completion of the review process in such a manner that there are no outstanding comments and upon successful completion of the initial audit by an attending Surveyor.

4.3.5 The validity of the Factory Approval Certificate is subject to the continued maintenance of conditions under which the approval was granted by ABS. Periodic audits of the manufacturer are to be performed on an annual basis.

Definitions Section 5

Section 5 Definitions

5.1 General

The following definitions for symbols and terms are used throughout these Rules.

5.3 Maximum Gross Weight (R)*

R or rating is the maximum allowable combined mass of the container and its cargo to which the container is tested and is expressed in kilograms and pounds.

5.5 Design Gross Weight

The design gross weight is the weight rating on which the structural design of the container is based, and is to be equal to or greater than the maximum gross weight.

5.7 Tare (T)

T or tare is the mass of the empty container, including its normal complement of fittings, equipment and devices and is expressed in kilograms and pounds.

5.9 Payload (P)

P or payload is the difference between R and T and is expressed in kilograms and pounds.

5.11 Design Load

The design load is the minimum statically applied load which the container is to be designed to withstand.

5.13 Design Load Factor

The design load factor is a factor which takes into account, insofar as practicable, the static and dynamic loads and other applicable considerations.

5.15 Reference Mass

The reference mass is that mass which is to be multiplied by the design load factor to obtain the design load.

*When Assembly Resolution A.737(18) of the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) comes into force the term “maximum gross weight” will become “maximum operating gross mass.” The CSC and Resolution A.737(18) have been reproduced in Annex D.

5.17 Floor Load

The floor load is the combined static and dynamic load imposed on the floor by the cargo and by the wheels of handling equipment.

5.19 End Load

The end load is the combined static and dynamic load imposed by the cargo on the container walls or doors, or both, which are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the container.

5.21 Side Load

The side load is the combined static and dynamic load imposed by the cargo on the container walls or doors, or both, which are perpendicular to the transverse axis of the container.

5.23 Roof Load

The roof load is the combined static and dynamic load imposed on the roof of a container.

5.25 Specified Dimensions

The specified dimensions of the length, width, and height of a container are the maximum allowable outside dimensions.

5.27 Prototype

A prototype is a representative unit of a series of identical containers built under conditions which duplicate, insofar as is practicable, the conditions under which all of the containers in the series are to be fitted.

5.29 Production Units

Production units are identical containers built under conditions which duplicate, insofar as is practicable, the conditions under which the prototype was built.

5.31 Corner Fitting

A corner fitting is a fixture consisting of standard apertures and faces which provide a common interface for handling and securing containers.

Certification of Cargo Containers 13 ABS^®

Definitions Section 5

Certification of Cargo Containers 14 ABS^®

Section 6 Design Considerations

6.1 General Specifications

Construction is to be structurally sound and when appropriate, weathertight. All fittings and appurtenances are to be within the maximum outside dimensions of the container. The main frame, corner structures, sides, and ends are to have sufficient structural strength to remain serviceable and withstand, without significant permanent deformation, the static and dynamic loads imposed by lifting the container by top or bottom corner fittings, the stacking loads, and the impact and racking loads encountered in normal service. The floor structure is to be strong enough to support the payload under dynamic loading conditions encountered in normal service and concentrated fork-lift truck axle loads. The specific design loading requirements are to be not less than those given in 6.11. The manufacturer is responsible for designing the container with sufficient strength to withstand the design loads, and is to include factors of safety allowing for fatigue, normal wear and tear, manufacturing fabrication techniques, and material properties.

6.3 Service Conditions

6.3.1 General

Containers used in multimodal transport should be serviceable under normal operation in weather conditions ranging from tropical to arctic zones. Each transport mode has its own operating load requirements which can be expressed as accelerations in the vertical, transverse or longitudinal direction.

6.3.2 Marine

Containers operating in the marine mode are often stowed in vertical stacks within the cells in a ship’s hold. When stowed in this manner, containers will be restrained at the end frames against longitudinal and transverse movement by the cell structure. The reactions of the entire stack of containers are taken through the four bottom corner fittings of the lowest container. Containers may also be stowed on deck or in a hold restrained by lashings, deck fittings, or both. Containers are normally stowed with the longitudinal axis of the container parallel to that of the ship.

It is assumed that the combined effect of a vessel’s motions and gravity results in an equivalent 1.8 times gravity for vertical acceleration, an equivalent 0.6 times gravity for transverse acceleration, and an equivalent 0.4 times gravity for longitudinal acceleration, acting individually.

6.3.3 Highway

Containers operating in the highway mode are carried by container chassis which provide support and restraint through the bottom corner fittings, the base structure, or through a combination of the two.

It is assumed that the combined effect of a vehicle’s motions resulting from road conditions, curves, braking, and gravity results in an equivalent 1.7 times gravity downward for vertical acceleration, an equivalent 0.5 times gravity upward for vertical acceleration, an equivalent 0.2 times gravity for transverse acceleration, and an equivalent 0.7 times gravity for longitudinal acceleration.

6.3.4 Rail

Containers operating in the rail mode are carried by railcars in two primary systems: container on a flat car (COFC) in which the container is supported and restrained through the bottom corner fittings; and trailer on a flat car (TOFC) in which the container and its chassis are carried as a single unit on the railcar.

It is assumed that the combined effect of a railcar’s motions resulting from the ride characteristics of the railcar, switching operations, and gravity results in an equivalent 1.7 times gravity downward for vertical acceleration, and equivalent 0.3 times gravity for transverse acceleration, and an equivalent 2.0 times gravity for longitudinal acceleration.

6.3.5 Terminal Handling

Handling equipment will subject the container to certain forces that must be considered when designing a container. The lowering of containers onto supports produces a dynamic load. It is assumed that the combined effect of this dynamic load and gravity results in an equivalent 2.0 times gravity downward for vertical acceleration.

6.5 Dimensional Tolerances

6.5.1 Overall Dimensions

The overall dimensions of the container may vary from the specified dimensions within the tolerances shown in Figure 6.1. Tolerances for intermediate specified dimensions may be obtained by interpolation.

6.5.2 Corner Fitting Location Tolerances The tolerances for the distance between the centers of apertures of corner fittings for the length, width, and height are to be equal to the tolerances of the overall dimensions of the length, width, and height.

6.5.3 Diagonal Tolerances

The value of diagonal tolerances K1 and K2 are not to exceed those given in Figure 6.1.

6.5.4 Measurement Criteria

The dimensions and tolerances apply when measured at a temperature of 20°C (68°F). Measurements taken at temperatures appreciably different are to be adjusted accordingly.

6.7 Design Features

6.7.1 Corner Design

A container is to have four top and four bottom corner fittings, oriented to define the corners of a hypothetical rectangular box. Figure 6.7 illustrates the recommended dimensions and tolerances of corner fittings. The dimensions of the corner fittings in Figure 6.7 are the same as those specified in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Standard 1161 Series 1 freight containers—Corner Fittings—Specifications. The corner fittings are to meet the strength requirements imposed on the containers by handling methods described in Section 6, but are to be not less than the strength requirements specified by ISO Standard 1161. Although Figure 6.7 illustrates corner fittings as separate elements of construction which must be attached to corner posts to form the corner structures of a container, the figures and references to “corner fittings” in the text do not preclude the use of corner structures having the necessary apertures as an integral feature of some other structural member, i.e., post, rail, or crossmember.

6.7.2 Roof Clearance

The top corner fittings are to protrude a minimum of 6 mm (¼ in.) above the highest point of the roof or upper structure. The transverse and longitudinal areas adjacent to the top corner fittings may be designed with reinforcements or “doubler plates” to protect the roof from being punctured during top lifting operations. Such reinforcements may extend the full width of the container and not more than 750 mm (29¼ in.) from each end and may not protrude above the top surface of the corner fitting.

6.7.3 Load Transfer Area

The base structure of a container is to be provided with a load transfer area in accordance with Figure 6.2, which may be formed by the bottom surfaces of the crossmembers or corresponding substructure. The plane of the load transfer area shall be positioned 12.5 mm +5, –1.5 (Zx in. + Czn – Zzn)* above the plane formed by the lower faces of the bottom corner fittings. Containers fitted with intermediate transverse members having a spacing of 1000 mm (39C, in.) or less, and recessed as required, comply with this requirement. Except for the bottom side rails and the bottom corner fittings, no part of the container is to project below the plane of load transfer areas. However, the transverse and longitudinal areas adjacent to the bottom corner fittings may be designed with reinforcements or “doubler plates” to protect the base from being damaged during handling and securing operations. Such reinforcements may not extend more than 470 mm (18½ in.) from the side faces of the bottom corner fittings and not more than 550 mm (22 in.) from each end of the container with the bottom surface recessed not less than 5 mm (Czn in.) above the bottom surface of the corner fitting.

The transfer of load between the underside of the bottom side rails and the carrying vehicle is not provided for in these Rules. The transfer of load between side rails, or fork-lift pockets, and handling equipment should only occur when provisions have been made in accordance with 6.9.1 and 6.9.2.

6.9 Optional Design Features

6.9.1 Fork-Lift Pockets

Fork-lift pockets may be provided for handling containers in the loaded or unloaded condition. The fork-lift pockets are to meet the dimensional requirements specified in Figure 6.3 and pass completely through the base structure of the container so that lifting devices may be inserted from either side. Fork-lift pockets are to be provided with a base strap or equivalent at each end.

6.9.2 Lifting Areas

Lifting areas may be provided for handling containers in the loaded or unloaded condition by means of grappler arms or similar devices. The lifting areas are to meet the location requirements specified in Figure 6.4.

6.9.3 Gooseneck Tunnels

Tunnels may be provided in containers to accommodate chassis goosenecks. The tunnels are to

*Note This is the location of the load transfer area, it is not a tolerance. To phrase the load transfer requirement another way: The load transfer area is to be on a plane located not less than 11 mm (Mzn in.), nor more than 17.5 mm (ZZzb in.) above the plane formed by the lower surfaces of the bottom corner fittings.

meet the dimensional requirements specified in Figure 6.5.

6.9.4 Cargo Securing Devices

Cargo securing devices may be provided in containers for securing cargo.

6.11 Design Loading Specifications

6.11.1 General

The design loads on which the requirements of this section are based take into account, as far as practicable, the dynamic loads likely to be encountered in container operation. Factors such as characteristics of load application, load repetition, load reversal and container life are to be considered in the design of the container. Due regard is to be given to local stresses resulting from attachment devices used for handling and securing a container.

6.11.2 Corner Structure Loads—Stacking

Type of load

Concentrated compression

Direction of load

Vertically downward, eccentrically applied, and equally distributed among the four corner structures.

Reference mass

Design load factor

1.8 x 8*; each corner to take one fourth of the design load.

Basis

The container corner structure is to have sufficient strength to allow containers to be stacked when transported by vessels. Vertical accelerations imposed by vessel motions (pitch and heave) are to be considered. The maximum vertical acceleration caused by combined pitching and heaving, taking into account the time phasing, may be assumed to be 0.8 g. When the equivalent dynamic force of 0.8 g is added to the static force of 1.0 g, the resulting total force may be taken as 1.8 g. It is assumed that the containers are stacked 9* high in cell guides. Normal cell clearance may be assumed to be 38 mm (1Zx in.) in the longitudinal direction and 25 mm (1 in.) in the transverse direction.

**For 10 ft containers the design load factor is 1.8 x 5 for 6 containers in a stack.

**For 10 ft containers the lifting forces are to be applied at an angle of 60º to the horizontal.

6.11.3 Lifting Loads

a. Lifting from Top

Type of load

Concentrated tension

Direction of load

Vertically** upward, applied tension at pickup points on four top corner fittings. Reference mass

Design load factor

2.0; each corner to take one fourth of the design load.

Basis

The container top corner fittings and associated components are to be capable of suspending the loaded container when lifted by any of the suitable lifting devices.

b. Lifting from Bottom

Type of load

Concentrated tension

Direction of load

Applied at pick-up points on four bottom corner fittings, acting parallel to the sides, along a line drawn from the bottom corner fitting through a point located above the roof at midlength at the following angles [to the horizontal]: 30º for 40 ft containers

37º for 30 ft containers

45º for 20 ft containers

60º for 10 ft containers Reference mass

Design load factor

2.0; each corner to take one fourth of the resultant load due to angle based on a vertical component equal to R/2.

Basis

The container bottom corner fittings and associated components are to be capable of supporting the loaded container when lifted by any of the suitable lifting devices.

c. Lifting from Fork Lift Pockets

Type of load

Concentrated

Direction of load

Vertically upward applied at pick-up area Reference mass

Design load factor

1.6

Basis

The loaded container is to be capable of being supported on two horizontal bars each 200 mm (8 in.) wide, projecting 1828 mm (72 in.) into the fork pocket.

d. Lifting from Grappler Arm Positions

Type of load

Concentrated

Direction of load

Vertically upward, applied at four lifting positions

Reference mass

Design load factor

1.25

Basis

The loaded container is to be capable of being supported at the four positions where provision has been made for lifting equipment.

6.11.4 Floor Loads

a. Wheeled Vehicle

Type of load

Concentrated wheeled vehicle load

Direction of load

Vertically downward

Reference mass

5460 kg total (2730 kg per wheel)

12000 lb. total (6000 lb. per wheel)

Design load factor

1.0

Basis

The container floor is to be capable of withstanding concentrated loads imposed by an industrial truck or other vehicle with a maximum axle loading of 5460 kg (12000 lb.). The minimum wheel width is to be assumed to be 180 mm (7 in.) with an imprint area not greater than 142 cm² (22 in.²) per wheel. The minimum wheel center to center distance may be assumed to be 760 mm (30 in.).

b. Cargo Type of load

Concentrated cargo load

Direction of load

Vertically downward Reference mass

Design load factor

2.0

Basis

The container floor is to be able to withstand a concentrated cargo load, uniformly distributed from side to side, over any 3 m (10 ft). The load is considered to be twice the maximum cargo mass (2P) of which 22680 kg (50000 lb.) is to be uniformly distributed over the mid 3 m (10 ft) with the balance of the load uniformly distributed over the remaining area of the container floor.

6.11.5 Floor and Rear Panel Loads

a. Cargo Type of load

Uniformly distributed

Direction of load

Longitudinally outward Reference mass

Design load factor

0.4

Basis

Front and rear end panels are to be capable of withstanding the forces imposed by transport equipment operations, assuming acceleration during rail car impact. The front end panel is to be of sufficient strength to withstand the forces encountered during emergency brake application when the container is transported by highway vehicles.

b. Racking Type of load

Concentrated

Direction of load

Transverse, applied at top corners

Design load

150 kN. (33700 lbf)

Basis

Front and rear end panels are to be capable of withstanding the racking imposed on the bottom container in a stack when the containers are carried on deck under conditions affording limited external racking restraint.

6.11.6 Side Panel Loads

a. Cargo Type of load

Uniformly distributed

Direction of load

Transversely outward Reference mass

Design load factor

0.6

Basis

Side panels are to be capable of withstanding forces imposed by vessel motions. Vessel rolling may be assumed to be isochronous, simple harmonic type motion. The minimum period for one complete roll may be assumed to be 13 seconds. The maximum distance of the center of gravity of the container from the vessel’s roll axis may be assumed to be 13.70m (45 ft).

b. Racking Type of load

Concentrated

Direction of load

Longitudinal, applied at top corners

Design load

75 kN. (16850 lbf)

Basis

Side panels are to be capable of withstanding the racking imposed on the bottom container in a stack when the containers are carried on deck under conditions affording limited external racking restraint.

6.11.7 Lashing

Type of load

Concentrated

Direction of load

Longitudinal, transverse and vertical, applied at corner fittings Design load

Refer to Figure 6.6

Basis

Top and bottom corner fittings are subject to externally applied loads transmitted through that aperture or face of the corner fitting perpendicular to the load.

Each corner fitting may be subject to longitudinal, transverse and vertical forces applied individually or simultaneously, provided that:

The longitudinal and transverse components are not to exceed the magnitude specified in Figure 6.6, but in no case, is the resultant to exceed 150 kN (33700 lbf).

The longitudinal, transverse and vertical components are not to exceed the magnitude specified in Figure 6.6; but in no case, is the resultant to exceed 300 kN. (67400 lbf)

The top and bottom corner fittings are to each, in conjunction with the container structure, be capable to withstanding each of these loads when applied to any end or side aperture of the external faces. The container is to be capable of withstanding the reaction to each of the loads illustrated by Figure 6.6.

6.11.8 Roof Load

Type of load

Uniformly distributed applied over an area 600 mm x 300 mm (24 in. x 12 in.) located on the top of the container. Direction of load

Vertically downward

Reference mass

200 kg (440 lb)

Design load factor

1.5

Basis

Container roof structure is to be capable of supporting two 100 kg (220 lb) workers on the container roof.

6.11.9 Base Structure Loads

Type of load

Concentrated

Direction of load

Longitudinal, applied through bottom apertures of bottom corner fittings Reference mass

Design load factor

Basis

The base structure is to be capable of withstanding the forces imposed by transport equipment operations, assuming acceleration during rail car impact.

6.11.10 Cargo Securing Device Loads (where provided)

Type of load

Concentrated tension

Direction of load

Applied away from the cargo securing device in all directions

Reference loads*

10 kN (2200 lbf) for an anchor point in the base structure; 5 kN (1100 lbf) for a lashing point in any part of the container other than the

base structure.^*

Design load factor

1.5

Basis

Cargo securing devices are to be capable of withstanding the inertial forces imposed by cargo in transit.

*The reference loads for platform and platform based containers: 30 kN (6600 lbf) for an anchor point and 10 kN (2200 lbf) for a lashing point.

FIGURE 6.1 Assembled Corner Fittings—Diagonal Tolerances

Overall length, height and width dimensions are measured along the appropriate edges.

FIGURE 6.1 (continued)

FIGURE 6.2 Location and Dimensions for Load Transfer Areas

FIGURE 6.2 (continued)

FIGURE 6.3 Location and Dimensions for Forklift Pockets

Dimensions and Tolerances

	Fork pockets for loaded and unloaded containers mm (in.)	Fork pockets for unloaded containers only mm (in.)
A	2050 ± 50 (81 ± 2)	—
B	355 min (14 min)	—
C	115 min (4½ min)	—
A´	—	900 ± 50 (36½ ± 2)
B´	—	305 min (12 min)
C´	—	102 min

(4 min)

FIGURE 6.4 Location and Dimensions for Grappler Lifting Areas

FIGURE 6.5 Location and Dimensions for Gooseneck Tunnels

FIGURE 6.6 Lashing Loads (Forces)

C₁	= 100 kn (22400 lbf)
C₂	= 150 kn (33700 lbf)
T₁	= 150 kn (33700 lbf)
T₂	= 150 kn (33700 lbf)
T₃	= 1/2 R
T₄	= 100 kn (22400 lbf)

FIGURE 6.7 Top Corner Fitting—Millimeters

Notes

1 Solid and broken lines (— and - -) show surfaces and contours which must be physically duplicated in the fitting.

2 Phantom lines (— - —) show optional walls which may be used to develop a box-shaped fitting.

FIGURE 6.7 (continued) Top Corner Fitting—Inches

Notes

1 Solid and broken lines (— and - -) show surfaces and contours which must be physically duplicated in the fitting.

2 Phantom lines (— - —) show optional walls which may be used to develop a box-shaped fitting.

FIGURE 6.7 (continued) Bottom Corner Fitting—Millimeters

Notes

1 Solid and broken lines (— and - -) show surfaces and contours which must be physically duplicated in the fitting.

2 Phantom lines (— - —) show optional walls which may be used to develop a box-shaped fitting.

FIGURE 6.7 (continued) Bottom Corner Fitting—Inches