2 Load model

 The loads to be considered as acting on the double bottom of the foremost cargo hold are those given by the external sea pressures and the combination of the cargo loads with those induced by the flooding of the foremost cargo hold.

The most severe combinations of cargo-induced loads and flooding loads are to be used, depending on the loading conditions included in the loading manual:

• homogeneous loading conditions;
• non-homogeneous loading conditions;
• packed cargo conditions (such as steel mill products).

For each loading condition, the maximum bulk cargo density to be carried is to be considered in calculating the allowable hold limit.

 The flooding head h _f (see figure 1) is the distance, in m, measured vertically with the ship in the upright position, from the inner bottom to a level located at a distance d _f, in m, from the baseline equal to:

• , in general; or

  for ships of less than 50,000 tonnes deadweight with Type B freeboard.

D being the distance, in m, from the baseline to the freeboard deck at side amidship (see figure 1).