ACT Takes Big Bite Out of Gas Container Weight

Jan. 1, 1998
WORKING with Van Hool, a Belgian tank builder, Anderson Columbiana Trading (ACT) has developed a new IMO-5/DOT51 gas tank that is about 25% lighter than

WORKING with Van Hool, a Belgian tank builder, Anderson Columbiana Trading (ACT) has developed a new IMO-5/DOT51 gas tank that is about 25% lighter than comparable units. Two chemical companies have already ordered more than 240 of the new LWGT (Lightweight Gas Tank) containers, according to Aris Antoniou of ACT.

The 17,110-liter (4,500-gallon) tank on display was constructed of carbon steel and has carbon steel baffles. Pressure capabilities are 25.5 bar (370 psi) under the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) code and 27.6 bar (400 psi) under the RID/ADR road and rail transport rules in Europe.

Two years of development went into the new tank container, which was designed under Section 8, Division 2 of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) code. Division 2 allows a thinner wall. The tradeoff is more engineering and more inspection and testing during manufacture.

Stress and fatigue analysis were required. Vessel welds were checked with radiography, and non-destructive testing was called for on all attachment welds. All design drawings had to be approved and stamped by a registered professional engineer.

"What we ended up with is a gas tank container that is not just lighter but better overall," Antoniou said. "Further, we're able to sell it at a competitive price."

Fisher discharge valves are standard for the US market, while those sold in Europe typically will have Fort Vale or Mecathermic valves. Oseco pressure-relief vents are standard. ACT, PO Box 1700, McKinney TX 75070.

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