What are the three types of inert gas systems?

The three types of inert gas systems commonly recognized in maritime applications are flue gas, oil fired, and nitrogen.

Flue gas systems utilize the exhaust gases from a ship's boiler, which are cooled and then treated before being introduced into the cargo tanks as an inert atmosphere. This method is particularly advantageous because it utilizes existing machinery to generate the inert gas, thus reducing operational costs.

Oil fired systems involve burning fuel oil to generate inert gas. These systems produce a clean gas that can be injected directly into the cargo tanks. It is critical for preventing combustion and maintaining the safety of cargo, especially for flammable materials.

Nitrogen systems use compressed nitrogen to create an inert atmosphere, which is entirely devoid of oxygen, effectively reducing the risk of fire or explosion when loading or transporting flammable cargoes.

Understanding the specific functions and benefits of each system is essential for safe and efficient tank operations in the shipping industry. The other options do not constitute the standard types of inert gas systems recognized for maritime use, making them less relevant in the context of this question.