NOTHING in a bulk plant or storage terminal is subjected to use and abuse like an API coupler. In many high-volume terminals, couplers can be connected 50 or more times each day. That’s 50 head-on collisions with a truck adaptor in a single day’s work.
Today’s couplers are designed to stand up to this heavy usage. Still, terminal operators need to regularly inspect the couplers.
Is a coupler leaking? If so, the situations in which it leaks are important to monitor. Does the coupler leak while connected to a truck?
A minor leak here could indicate seal wear, specifically related to the nose seal, the primary seal between the truck and coupler.
Loading arm adjustment could also contribute to a minor leak. Ideally, loading arms should be balanced at the truck adaptor height of 30-35” off-grade.
A major leak might indicate a weak or broken wave spring. Wave springs provide seal compression when connected to the truck adaptor. In this case, the operator would have to take the coupler out of service to inspect or replace the wave spring.
Another possibility is leaking while parked. Minor leaking while parked could also be due to seal wear, but it may signify greater problems. Thermal expansion can affect API couplers if thermal reliefs are not in place and functioning, pushing them to much higher pressures than their typical rating of 75-80 psi.
It is possible that couplers could experience 300, 400 or even 500+ psi during extreme thermal expansion. This can cause seal damage, or even worse, catastrophic failure. A difficult to open and close handle can be a sign of thermal damage.
Temperature, specifically cold weather, can be the culprit behind some leaks. Regardless of temperature, the terminal must keep product flowing, and though today’s seals are generally reliable in temperatures to 0°F, the API coupler may need additional protection.
Special cold-weather seals designed for extreme cold can keep your couplers in operation well below zero. If your couplers are leaking in cold weather, verify the seal material and consider a lower temperature option.
Is it difficult connecting to the truck adaptor? Check the latches and cams of couplers. These areas are very prone to dirt and debris buildup, and they can cause cams to face difficulties, especially in winter months.
For more information on trouble-shooting API couplers, check out the Tech Support or Resources sections on the OPW Engineered Systems website at www.opw-es.com