Have you seen tank trailers on the road and wondered how their components function? Are you planning to buy a tank trailer for your business but need help in choosing the right model?

Are you an engineer who needs to increase his or her know on the structure of tank trailers. In this book, you will learn designs and specifications you need to know about fuel tank trailers including fuel, oil, diesel petroleum tanker.

Learn more about acid tank trailer in this post: Why Acid Tank Trailer Can’t Be Corroded (Characteristics and Principle)

We will introduce to the heavy load tank trailer, which is also called a tank truck trailer or semi tank trailer. The guide does not focus on the small or home tank trailer. We will cover the small trailers in another guidebook.

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Tank truck trailers are used to transport liquids and gas in large volumes. The trailers come in different models because of the wide variety of liquefied loads.

The internal structure also varies depending on the type of liquid or gas that the trailers are designed to transport. The tanks may be pressure or non-pressurized and insulated or non-insulated.

petroleum tank trailers

Petroleum tank trailers

Tank trailers designed to carry one load has a single compartment while those that carry multiple loads have internal divisions in their tanks.

The distinguishing factors of tank trailers include the shape of the tank, the type of load that a trailer carries, and the size. Other distinguishing factors include refrigeration capability, pressurization capability, and acid resistance.

Some models are specifically designed to comply with a country’s regulations on the transportation of liquefied loads. Hence, the structure of trailers will vary across countries. However, the functionality of the trailers is the same regardless of the manufacturer.

Some the aspects of tank truck trailer that you can expect to learn from this guidebook include:

  • The materials used to make tank trailers
  • How to inspect different components of tank trailers
  • The manufacturing process of the tanks
  • How to buy a tank trailer
  • What you should pay attention and how to stay safe when driving a tank trailer
  • How to maintain a tank trailer and the components you should pay attention to during maintenance

You will learn different applications of tank trailers, their components, and the manufacturing process. So, You will know how to choose the right model for your business.

How To Make A Chemical Tank Trailers

We will start with a detailed description of the tank trailers and then proceed to show you how to inspect, buy, and maintain a tank trailer.

Here are the different kinds of tank trailers guide:

 

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Chapter 1: Fuel/Oil Tank Trailer

 

Have you ever seen an heavy load tank trailer on the road? Can you differentiate it from other tank trailers? If not, this section describes the oil tank trailer in detail.

You will learn the full structure of the trailer and the materials used to make different parts. You will also learn about the internal compartments and the purpose of having several compartments in one tank trailer.

The section covers different components of the fuel tank trailer and compares the two processes of loading, that is, top loading and bottom loading.

The advantages and disadvantages of both methods are outline. First, we look at the definition and description of the oil tank trailer including its major applications.

 

1.1 What is Fuel Tank Trailer?


 

One of the common types of tank trailer you will find on the road is the fuel tank trailer. The trailer is used to transport gasoline, diesel oil, and benzene. It is also used to transport some types of inflammable and plosive liquid.

Gasoline and diesel fuels are used for standard cars and other types of vehicles. Hence, most fuel trailers have more than one compartment. Why do fuel tank trailers have several compartments? Here are the major reasons:

fuel tank trailer

Fuel Tank Trailer

The efficiency principle: A trailer with different compartment can transport different kinds of liquid at the same time. This reduces the transportation cost and saves fuel because the trips are reduced to one.

Transporting each liquid in a different tanker is more expensive and inefficient. Trailers with multiple compartments can transport different grades of gasoline in one trip. A service station can receive all the products needed in just one trip.

To ensure stability: A liquid fluctuates to all directions in the tank when the trailer is running on a slope. If the fuel tank trailer has a large capacity, the fluctuations will cause major changes in the center of mass.

This, in turn, will cause major changes of the axle load, which affect the stability of the truck and trailer. The instability may cause the trailer to jackknife or rollover. Using a multi-compartment model reduces the changes of the axle load and hence keeps the trailer stable.

multi compartment tanker

how multi-compartments work

1.2 Material


 

In this section, we will discuss different materials that are used to make fuel tank trailers. Trailer manufacturers use carbon steel or stainless steel and aluminum allow to make fuel tank trailers.

Each of these materials has its advantages and disadvantages. Let us now look at the pros and cons of each material.

oil tank trailer drawing

oil tank trailer drawing

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Carbon steel and stainless steel

The main advantages of using carbon and stainless on trailers include:

  • Steel has high strength and is not damaged easily
  • The price of steel is competitive and hence steel is popular in developing countries
  • Carbon steel is easy to weld
  • Steel is less prone to stress crack, which is common with aluminum
  • The stainless steel is resistant to rust, can used to transport edibles

The main disadvantages of using carbon steel are:

  • Carbon steel requires galvanizing or painting on the surface to prevent rusting
  • It has a higher density than aluminum alloy
carbon steel tank trailer

carbon steel tank trailer

stainless steel tank trailer

Stainless Steel Tank Trailer

Aluminum alloy

The advantages of using aluminum alloy on tank trailers include:

  • It is lighter in weight than steel
  • Aluminum tank trailer can carry more liquid load
  • The trailers are safer and more secure
  • The material is resistant to rust and hence it does not pollute the liquid during transportation

Some of the disadvantages of aluminum allow include:

  • The strength of aluminum is almost half the strength of steel
  • It is highly prone to stress cracking
  • Welding aluminum plates is cumbersome
  • It is more expensive than steel
aluminium oil tank trailer

Aluminium Alloy Tank Trailer

The type of material used on a fuel tank trailer determines its price and loading capacity. The aluminum trailer may be light and resistant to rust but their strength is low and their price is high.

You must consider the end use of the trailer and your budget when choosing between the two materials. Steel may be your best choice if you need a high-capacity fuel tank trailer at a low cost.

The fact that aluminum is lighter and lower in strength than steel does not mean that aluminum trailers are weak. The trailers have enough loading capacity to transport fuel or oil in bulk.

Learn more specs and dimensions, check this post:

Fuel, petrol, diesel, oil tank trailer Buying Guide – How to Choose Design and Capacity

 

1.3 Parts


 

1.3.1 Tank body, heads, and cylinder

Tank trailers have different shapes include circle, ellipse, and rectangular shapes. Their height of gravity ratio is 1:0.79:0.65. Large fuel tankers have an ellipse and round rectangular shape because of the need for stability.

The low center of gravity in this shape keeps the trailer stable. High pressure tanks, on the other hand, are built in the circle shape.

ellipse tank trailer

ellipse tank trailer

The body of a tank trailer consists of the heads and cylinder. The cylinder is manufactured by coiling and welding steel plates. The end shell is formed by the spinning stamping process, it is unibody structure.
.

tank heads

tank heads

The process involves continuous partial stamping at a specific temperature. For the cylinder and heads to be accurate after welding, their roundness tolerance should be less than 3mm.

Oil Baffle Plate

To reduce the fluctuations of the liquid in the tank, all the rooms in the tank have baffle plates. A longitudinal baffle plate is placed along the axis in the tank to reduce transverse fluctuations of the liquid in the tank.

A transverse baffle plate is placed along the cross section to alleviate the axial fluctuation of the liquid in the tank.

Transverse baffle plates have a manhole on each plate, which generally is not less than 550mm in diameter. The dimensions are necessary for the ease of maintenance of the plates.

oil baffle plate

oil baffle plate

To improve the effect of the transverse baffle plate, two or more manholes are places of the baffle plates. The manholes should be staggered in the same compartment.

1.3.2 Manhole Cover, Breather Valve, and Spill-proof sensor

The manhole cover is simply the cover on the trailer’s manhole as illustrated in the picture below. The cover has important components that you should know about, which keep the tank safe.

manhole cover

manhole cover

Air release valve

One of the important components of the manhole cover is the respiration valve, which is also known as a relief valve. The function of the valve is to adjust the pressure inside tank automatically.

This helps to keep the pressure within a certain range. The relief valve protects the tank and reduces the volatilization loss of volatile oil.

The body of the respiratory valve is made of stainless steel with nickel cadmium. All other parts are made of stainless acid-resistant steel to prevent rust.

A small and medium tank has one breather valve for all the compartments. A large tank, on the other hand, has breathing valves for each compartment.

Spill-Proof Sensor

The spill-proof sensor is the alarm installed on the manhole cover. The sensor produces a sound or noise whenever the height of the liquid inside the tank changes quickly.

When the liquid reaches the right height, the whistle or alarm stops. The sensor in this case plays the role of a filling up alarm. In addition, the whistle stops with the liquid insider the tank discharge empty.

Oil vapor recovery valve

The oil gas from volatile can be recovered to the oil tank, which prevents leakage of the oil gas. Other oil gas recovery devices are used to condense and reuse the oil gas.

1.3.3. Oil Line System 

The system consists of several valves that include the bottom valve, oil vapor recovery valve, and the fuel outlet valve. Let us look at the functions of each of these valves.

Bottom valve

The bottom valve is generally installed in an oil tanker’s outlet.  In case of a crash in an accident, the valve can cut off the pipeline in 5 seconds. This ensures the safety of the cargo and people in the car.

The quick cut off also prevents leakage and explosion in an accident. The quick cut off is enough to save lives and prevent loss of the the liquid being transported.

Tank trailer drivers are always advice to inspect and this other valve before loading the trailer for their own safety.

bottom valve

bottom valve

Fuel outlet valve

This valve is used for quick unloading of the liquid in the tank. Its internal structure complies with fluid mechanics and can minimize internal pressure during a large flow.

The special structure used in the fuel outlet valve help in ensuring that there is no oil leakage when the joint is removed.

fuel outlet valve

fuel outlet valve

 

1.4 Top or bottom loading


 

Loading fuel or liquid in the tank truck trailers is done in two ways. The fuel or liquid can be loaded from the top or from the bottom. Each method has its pros and cons.

Top loading: Loading fuels or liquid is unsafe and risky. Gasoline evaporates into the atmosphere when loaded from the top. The vapor or fumes increase the risk of an explosion at the filling station.

In addition, the evaporated gas is a loss of the total volume of the cargo. Top loading is also harmful to the workers and hence it should be avoided at all costs. In addition, top loading is time consuming.

Bottom loading: The method is recommended for all types of fuel and liquid cargo. It is safe and efficient because the loading speed is fast. Gasoline gas remains within the internal circulation.

Bottom loading has no explosion risk and hence it is considered safe for the workers.

tanker loading

tanker loading

Read More:

Fuel tank Wiki

How to make Stainless Steel Tank Trailers

Composite wall structure, tank trailer formed therefrom and method of manufacturing same

 

1.5 Safety accessories 


 

Safety accesories can ensure that the high-pressure reaches its destination without any leakages, incidents or accidents.

The accessores include a safety valve, an emergency shutting-off system, and an electostatic eliminating device. Each of these safety mechanisms is discussed below.

1.5.1 Safety valve

Whenever the pressure inside tank exceeds the optimal level, the relief valve opens automatically. The gas inside is discharged rapidly, which makes the pressure to reduce.

When the tank drops back to the safe pressure level, the relief valve shuts down to avoid the danger of over-pressure.

safety valve

safety valve

Characteristics of safety valves:

  • The stress can be tightly closed when the pressure returns to normal
  • The opening pressure of the relief valve in not greater than 1.1 times the design pressure
  • The closing pressure of the relief valve is not less than 0.8 times the opening pressure

1.5.2 The Emergency Shutting-off Valve

When the unloading pipe is damaged, the emergency shutting-off system cuts off the flow.  In case the unloading valve fails and the gas or liquid leaks out, the emergency cut-off valve can stop the leakage.

In case of a fire or the temperature of ambient rises above 70 C, the emergency cut-off valve will stop the outflow.

emergency shutting off valve

emergency shutting off valve

1.5.3 The Electrostatic Eliminating Device

When loading and unloading the tank, the liquid under high speed will produce electrostatic because of friction. The electrostatic can cause fire if it is not eliminated promptly.

Hence, an electrostatic eliminating device must be installed in the tank. With the device in plance, the resistance is small.

Read More:

Liquefied petroleum gas

 

Chapter 2: How To Inspect The Welding Quality Of The Tank

 

Welding is an importance process of manufacturing a tank trailer. Inspecting the welding quality is important because tank trailers are used to transport dangerous liquid or gas. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure that the tank will not leak and cause an accident. In this section, we will show you how to inspect the welding quality of a tank trailer.

Welders need to follow the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) when working to ensure that the welding process is of high quality. Even if the welders follow the WPS guideline, you still have to inspect the welding line after the work is complete.

Some of the aspects to look out for during the inspection are cracks or defects in the materials and in the welding line. Several methods are used to detect these cracks or defects. The methods include X-ray flaw detection, ultrasonic inspection, magnetic powder inspection, penetration inspection, and gamma ray flaw detection method. All the methods are NDT, that is, they are nondestructive inseption.

NDT refers to a detection methods that does not damage the work piece or raw materials. However, the method can still detect the surface of the parts and internal quality of material. Some of the methods used to check welding quality in tank trailers are discussed below.

 

2.1 Magnetic Powder Inspection


 

Magnetic particle inspection is a method used to detect the defects on the surface or near the surface of ferromagnetic materials. The materials include all the substances that show strong magnetism whenever a magnetic field is applied.

The inspection process involves magnetising the surfaces of all parts or welded joints. If the parts or joints have any defects, the magnetic powder will gather around those defects.

Hence, it is easy to detect where the defects by observing the movement of the magnetic powder.

The main advantages  and disadvntages of magnetic powder inspection are outlined below:

Magnetic Powder Inspection

Magnetic Powder Inspection

Advantages

  • The method requires simple equipment
  • The operation of the equipment and inspection is easy
  • Testing defects or crakcs through this method is fast
  • Magnetic powder testing has high detection sensitivity
  • The method can be used to find defects on surfaces or near surfaces of ferromagnetic material, carbon steel, and some alloys
  • It is suitable for inspecting thin walls or weld surface cracks
  • Magnetic powder inspection can show unsoldered defects of a certain depth and size
  • The test method can work through coating thickness and contaminant layer
  • It is inexpensive compared to other methods
  • Magnetic powder inspection is suitable to high-volume production inspection

Disadvantages

  • It is difficult to find the air bubble, the cinder inclusion, and the defect hidden in the deep
  • The method is limited because the material must be ferrous for the defects to be detected
  • It requires care to avoid burning in case the welded parts have any electrical contact
  • You must demagnetization  and cleaning of the tested parts is necessary after the inspection
  • The method requires proper alignment of the magnetic field and the defects for it to be effective
  • It works best on smooth surfaces and hence may be ineffective on rough welded parts
  • Tanks trialers are often painted or polished, which interferes with the sensitivity of the testing method

 

2.2 Ultrasonic Welding Inspection 


 

Ultrasonic welding inspection can penetrate into the depths of metal materials. The ultrasonic wave goes from the surface of the part to all other sections. The wave goes back when it reaches the edge of the interface.

Hence, ultrasonic welding inspection can be used to check the parts when the ultrasonic wave encounters an interface. The detection appears as a pulse on the screen. Workers use the pulse waveform to determine the position and size of the defect.

Inspectors can also detect any changes in the thickness of the materials. Ultrasonic testing is also used to measure the changes in the properties of materials. The testing method is used to locate defects on the surface or subsurface of different materials including metals, wood, and plastics.

Ultrasonic Inspection

Ultrasonic Inspection

Advantages

  • Ultrasonic testing has high detection sensitivity than X-ray flaw detection
  • It takes a short period to complete the testing
  • The method is cost effective
  • It requires only single sided access
  • It is flexible, conveneint and efficient
  • It is harmless to the human body
  • Minimal preparation of the parts is required
  • It provides distance information
  • Ultrasonic testing detects more than flaws. It detects changes in thickness and properties of materials

Disadvantages

  • It requires a smooth surface to be effective
  • Ultrasonic testing requires an experienced inspector who can identify different type of defects because the defects are not visual
  • It  is suitable for thicker and larger welding line and parts. It is difficult to inspect thin parts with this method
  • Linear defects that are parallel the ultrasonic wave may be undetected
  • The surface of the past should be accessible to couplant and probe

 

2.3 Penetrate flaw detection


 

With this method, the surface of the component to be tested is first cleaned. The penetrant solution is then applied on the clean surface and pulled down to the defects through capillarity action.

The surface is then cleaned to remove any reduce of the infiltration liquid.  However, some reside of the penetrant or infiltration liquid will remain on the defects. The capillary action of the imaging agent (solvent developer) is used to absorb the residual fluid in the defect and achieve the goal of defect inspection.

Penetrant inspetion is mostly used to detect porosity, cracks, and other defects that are able to break the surface of the material. The flaws should have enough volume to trap and hold the infiltration liquid.

Penetrate flaw detection

Penetrate flaw detection

Advantages

  • The method tests large areas or surfaces effectively and efficiently. Large surfaces are inspected fast and at a low cost
  • It does not require any complex equipment
  • Defect display is intuitive
  • It can be applied to partts with complex geometry

Disadvantages

  • Penetrant testing can only detect flaws that break the surface of the material
  • It is difficult to find the air bubble, the cinder inclusion, and the defect hidden in the deep
  • The method requires smooth and nonporous surfaces
  • The inspectors must clean the residue liquid after inspection
  • It consists of multiple operations that require controlled conditions
  • Inspectors must follow safety guidelines when handling chemicalss to avoid fire, toxicity and other incidences

 

2.4 X-ray flaw detection


 

This inspection method is also referred to as radiographic testing. X-rays are mostly used in the inspection to produce images of the parts using a detector that is highly sensitive to radiation.

Sometimes gamma rays and other high-energy rays are also used in the inspection. The part or object that is being tested is placed between the detector and the source of the radiation.

The density and thickness of the materials that the rays must penetrate through determine the amount of radiation that reaches the detector. The difference in radiation projects an image on the film oir detector. This images shows the internal features of the inspected part including any flaws or defects.

X-rays is used to defect flaws on surfaces and subsurfaces of all types of materials. The process is also used to detect the thickness of materials and location of hidden parts when assembling equipment.

X ray flaw detection

X ray flaw detection

Advantages

  • The method can be used to inspect all types of materials
  • It is precise and highly efficient
  • It can detect defects on the surface and subsurface
  • X-ray inspection can be used to detect flaws on parts with complete shapes or geometry and multiple layers without disassembly the parts
  • The part requires minimal preparation before testing and no cleaning after inspection

Disadvantages

  • The method requires complex and expensive equipment
  • It require a well trained and skills inspector
  • It requires access to both sides of the part or structure
  • Inspecting thick materials take a longer period
  • Radiation is harmful to the human body

 

Chapter 3: How to Buy a Tank Trailer

 

You have learnt about different types of tank trailers, their structures, and applications in the previous chapter. This information is necessary to help you decide the type of tank trailer that will suit your business. The right type depends on the type of cargo that your business handles. Once you identify the type, you must do your homework to pick the right model or brand in the market.

In this chapter, you will learn how to choose the best model of a tank trailer. You will learn all the considerations you should make before ordering for a tank trailer from any manufacturer.

 

3.1 Standard and Certification


 

The standards and certification requirements of tank trailers vary across countries. You need to check the requirements in your country before purchasing a tank trailer.

If you fail to check the standards and certification, you may buy a tank trailer that you cannot use in your country. The standards in most cases outline the dimensions and safety measures that a tank trailer must have to be used in the country.

Government bodies cerfity brands based on their quality and safety. Confirm if the manufacturer’s brand of tank trailers are allowed in your country.

Some manufacturers have different models of the same type of trailer with varying specifications. You need to check the standards for the requirement for the specific you intend buy.

3.2 Inspect the supplier’s strength


 

A tank trailer may meet the standard and certification requirements in your country but fail to meet your needs. Tank trailers transport flammable gases and liquid.

Hence, you must be careful to pick trailers with high-quality tanks. The manufacturer must follow the right production step without skipping step to ensure that the final product is safe.

Any leakages of liquid or gases in transit is risky to the driver and other road uses.

Some of the worst road accidents involve tank trailers that leak and burst into flames. Avoid manufacturers that do not follow production procedures. Many of them cut off some procedurs to save the overall production cost.

Such manufacturers may offer cheaper tank trailers but the risks involved in driving such trailer are high. You need to study the reputation of a supplier before purchasing to ensure that the supplier is committed to safety and quality standards.

One of the inspections to make before buying is confirming that the quality control steps are complete. 

The information therein will help you determine if the supplier followed all the steps for these types of tanks. One of the most important steps for tank trailer that carry high pressure liquid and gas is welding.

The quality of welding for these types of trailers determines their ability to handle the high pressure. The considerations to make when inspecting the quality of welding include:

  • Ensure that the tanks can work effectively under high pressure
  • Ensure that the tanks have no leakages
  • Check if the tanks are stronger and not easily damaged

The purpose of preparing this guide is to help you conduct such inspection on your own. It is advisable to compare different models and inspect each thoroughly. Careful inspection will save you from fatal accidents associated with low-quality tanks.

supplier strength 1

Supplier’s strength

 

Chapter 4: What you Should Pay Attention to and How to Ensure Safety When Driving a Tank Trailer

 

With the information provided in this guide, you can buy a durable model of a tank trailer. However, the tank may develop mechanical issues or cause fatal accidents if you ignore critical safety measures. In this chapter, you will learn about the key aspects of the tank trailer that you should pay attention when driving. We have outlined different types of tank trailers about. The driving safety measures below apply to all types of tank trailers.

 

  • Loading the tank

One of the most important safety measures when handling a tank trailer is following the right procedure when loading the tank. Proper loading is important is to avoid liquid surge, which is common when a tank is half filled.  

The liquid in the tank may surge back and forth when the driver stops the trailer. The surge tends to push the trailer in the direction of the wave. Such movements are dangerous on slippery

Given the risks of a liquid surge, it is important to ensure that the weight of the liquid is equally distribution for tanks will different compartments. In addition,  the driver must leave enough room for the liquid to expand.

The room required depends on the type of liquid being transported. The most important factors to consider the determine the amount of liquid to load in a tank include:

  • The expansation rate of the liquid
  • Legal weight limits in the country
  • The weight of the liquid
  • The temperature of the load

Inspect all the valves before loading to ensure that there are in the right position. Otherwise, they will not function as required especially in times of emergencies. Inspect the emergency shut off systems, cut off valves, intake and discarge to ensure that they are in the right place.

 

  • Inspecting the tank trailer

It is important to inspect the tank trailer just before driving even after following the right loading procedures. Start by inspecting all around the trailer to ensure that there are no leakages.

Do not driving if the loaded gas or liquid is leaking, even if the leakage is small. Check if all the manholes and valves are covered. Driving a tank trailer with open valves is risky.

Inspections are necessary during the regular maintenance services. However, it is important to recheck the parts before loading new cargo.

Tank trailer leakage

Tank trailer leakage

 

  • Safe driving tips

After ensuring that the tank trailer is in good condition to transport the gas or liquid, observer the following tips for your safety:

  1. Control the surges

We mentioned that liquid surges can cause the trailer to roll over when stepping on the brakes. Some tanks have baffles that control the forward and backwards movements of the liquid.

However, the side to side surges will still occur, which can cause an accident when not controlled. One way to control the liquid surges is to keep the pressure on the brakes steady. Avoid releasing the brakes when stopping the trailer.

Another tip to control the surge is to start braking while still a distance away from the stop. Sometimes you must use the emergency brakes to avoid an accident.

In such cases, use stab or controlled braking and avoid steering quickly while applying the brakes. Quick steering can make the tank trailer to roll over.

  1. Keep a long stopping distance

The stopping distance is not only important in controlling liquid surges but also for the safety of other motorists on the road. Determine the safest stopping distance depending on the type of the road.

For instance, you need to double the normal stopping distance when driving on wet roads. Consider the weight of the tank trailer as well. An empty tank trailer is lighter and normally takes a longer time to stop than a fully loaded tank trailer. Hence, you need to increase the stopping distance when the tank empty.

  1. Drive smoothly

Start, reduce speed, and stop the tank trailer smoothly. The center of gravity of most tank trailers is high when loaded. Hence, the level of stability of the trailer is low. Driving smoothly especially when changing lanes or turning the trailer improve its stability.

In addition, driving smoothly helps you to control the surges. Be careful when approaching curves on the road. Slow down the trailer before you get to the curve and then accelerate gradually as you navigate the curve.

  1. Avoid skidding

One major cause of accidents and incidents on the road involving trailers is skidding. If you over brake, over steer, or over accelerate, the trailer is likely to skid.

If you notice that the wheels are skidding while driving, move fast to restore normal traction. Failing to act on time may cause the trailer to jackknife, which simply means that the trailer slided towards the front the truck.

At this point, the trailer has exceeded the normal 45 degrees angle. Practice driving the tank trailer smoothly whether loaded or empty. Skidding and subsequently jackknifing is common on wet and icy roads.

  1. Observe speed limits

Many accidents occur when drivers ignore speed limits. Watch the speed limits on the road and drive within those limits. Avoid the temptation to speed up when the road seems clear.

Consider the weather as well to determine the most appropriate speed. You may need to drive a slow speed during the icy and wet weather to avoid skidding. Hence, it is important to get weather updates before starting any trip.

 

Chapter 5: What You Should Notice During Maintenance of a Tank Trailer

 

Tank trailers require proper maintenance to function at their full capacity. The components will not function according to the manufacturer’s specification if you ignore service and maintenance. Tank trailers are used to transport dangerous and hazardous materials. If any part fails while the trailer is on the road and cause a leakage, the incident may lead to loss of lives.

Countries have different standards on how to transport dangerous materials on the road. The standards include the conditions of the transporters. Hence, maintaining your tank trailer in good condition is a legal requirement. The good news is that top manufacturers give a manual on how to take care of your tank trailer. Here are some of the major parts that you must check during the maintenance process.

  1. Valves and pressure gauge: Always check all the valves including the hydraulic, safety, vacuum and pressure valves. Ensure that each valve function as it should and is properly lubricated. Sometimes valves freeze during the cold weather, which causes them to malfunction.  Clean the valves and lubricate them regularly. All the valves should have no residue or corrosion. Check the pressure gauge as well to ensure that it is in good condition and working properly.
  2. Tank:The most important aspect to consider when maintaining the tank is leakage. Inspect the tank for any holes that may cause the gas or liquid to leak. Seal any leaking parts on the tank. Check for any bents or deformations on the body of the tank. If such deformations are left unchecked, they may lead to cracks as pressure changes during the loading and unloading processes. The body of the tank should be smooth and even. Clean the tank regularly and polish its surface to prevent rust.
  3. Tires: Maintaining tires regularly to avoid rollovers. Inspect the tires for wear and any damages and replace any worn out tires. Ensure that the air pressure is at the right level at all times. Poorly maintained tires can easily cause an accident because they do not have the required traction on the road.
  4. Bolts:Tighten all the bolts during maintenance including the shock absorbed bolts, u-bolts, and slewing ring bolts. Every bolt in the tank trailer must be tight enough to maintain its strength and stability. Replace any damaged bolts with new bolts and ensure to pick the right dimensions.

We have outlined a few of the components of tank trailers that must be checked regularly. However, all the other parts are also important and require proper maintenance.

Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines on how maintain the tank trailer especially when replacing parts. Manufacturers give specific dimensions and quality of parts that should be used in their tank trailers.

In addition, follow the safety guidelines given in your country for such transporters.

 

Conclusion

 

Tank trailers are designed to carry different types of fuel and oil. Each of these tank trailers has a specific manufacturing process especially for the cylinder. The body and inner structure of the tanks are designed based on the type of cargo. Steel and aluminum alloy are mostly used to make the body of the tank trailers.

Choosing and maintaining the right model of a tank trailer is important because of the risks involved. Tank trailers carry dangerous gases and liquid that are harmful to human health. In case of leakages, some of the liquid may explode and cause loss of lives. Hence, you must insist on buying a tank trailer who follows the right manufacturing process.

Careful inspections are necessary before buying a tank trailer. The inspections are also necessary before loading or transporting any cargo with the trailer. Some of the most important components include the cylinder or tank, welded joints, valves, and pressure gauge. Tank trailer operators must use the right loading process, that is, top loading for their safety. In addition, the operators must drive the tank trailers smoothly especially on wet roads to avoid accidents. Loaded trailers roll over easily when driven at a high speed especially near curves and bends.

You can purchase a high-quality tank trailer that will endanger the lives of your workers or road users if you follow this guide. The most important thing is to inspect the components and ensure that you buy from certified suppliers. The right supplier should follow the safety standards and requirements in your country to customize your tank trailer. Always check the body, tires, joints, and valves in the regular maintenance procedures to keep your tank trailer in a good condition.

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