Inside The World’s Biggest Oil Tankers | Oil Tanker Explained

ever wondered why an oil tanker carries water? in this detailed animation, we go inside crude tankers and product tankers to reveal the engineering that keeps millions of barrels of oil moving safely across the oceans. you will see how the double-hull structure works, why ballast water is filled, and how ballast water treatment prevents invasive species such as zebra mussels from spreading. we also explain the free-surface effect and how dividing the cargo into many compartments keeps the ship stable. you will learn the standard loading pattern, manifolds and pumps, and what happens during offshore transfer using single-point mooring (spm). on deck, we cover pressure-vacuum valves; below, we show the engine room, fuel tanks, propeller and rudder. finally, we break down the inert gas system, mast riser and flame arrestor that reduce fire risk, plus heating coils that lower viscosity for easy unloading. perfect for students, engineers and curious minds who want clear, visual learning.

topics covered

types of tankers: crude vs product

hull layout: double hull and ballast tanks

why ballast water is used; treatment to stop invasive species (zebra mussels)

compartmentalisation to control the free-surface effect

loading system: manifolds, loading arms, pumps, balanced filling pattern

stability and turning: propeller, rudder, engine room basics

pressure-vacuum valves for tank pressure control

unloading challenges in cold weather; heating coils/rods for viscosity control

offshore transfer via single-point mooring (spm)

safety systems: cofferdams, inert gas system, mast riser, flame arrestor

international protocols (imo) and environmental compliance