Question 1319 Deck General

The correct answer is C) Discharging. During discharging operations, the pressure in an inert tank may fall below the prescribed limits. This is because as the liquid cargo is being removed from the tank, the volume of gas (usually nitrogen or another inert gas) inside the tank increases, causing the pressure to drop. The regulations require maintaining a positive pressure in the inert gas system to prevent the ingress of air and the formation of a flammable atmosphere. Discharging the cargo reduces the volume of gas, leading to a potential pressure drop below the prescribed limits. The other options are incorrect because: A) Steaming tanks would increase the pressure, B) Crude oil washing would not directly affect the inert gas pressure, and D) Loading would increase the pressure as more cargo is added to the tank.