Overview
A tank car is a specialized type of railroad car designed for the safe and efficient transport of liquid commodities. These cars are distinct from other railroad cars due to their cylindrical shape and are equipped with secure seals to prevent leakage. Tank cars play a crucial role in industries such as chemical manufacturing, agriculture, petroleum extraction, and food processing.
Description
Tank cars are equipped with fittings and features, including:
- Manway: An opening at the top of the tank car used for loading and inspecting the car.
- Outlets and Valves: These control the flow of the liquid during loading and unloading.
- Cylindrical Body: The central body of the tank car is designed to hold liquids securely and is generally made from steel, aluminum, or other robust materials.
- Insulation: Some tank cars are insulated to maintain temperature-sensitive liquid commodities.
- Protective Devices: Including head shields and safety valves to manage internal pressure and protect against damage.
Examples
- Petroleum Products: Tank cars transport various petroleum products like crude oil, gasoline, and diesel.
- Chemicals: Often used for liquid chemicals such as sulfuric acid and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
- Food Products: Items such as milk, vegetable oils, and wine are common liquid commodities shipped via tank cars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the key safety features of a tank car?
Tank cars are built with safety features like pressure relief devices, thermal protection, and head shields to minimize risks during transport.
Can tank cars transport any liquid commodity?
No, tank cars are typically designated for specific types of liquids, considering factors such as viscosity and chemical properties.
How are tank cars loaded and unloaded?
Tank cars are generally loaded through manways on top and unloaded through valves and outlets designed for the specific liquid it carries.
What are the regulations governing tank car transportation?
Tank cars must comply with regulations set by agencies like the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) in the U.S.
Are tank cars always owned by the railroad companies?
Not necessarily, tank cars can be owned by private companies, leasing firms, or railroad operators.
Related Terms
- Locomotive: The rail vehicle that provides the motive power for a train.
- Freight Car: General term for any railroad car used to carry goods.
- Intermodal Container: A container used for intermodal freight transport, able to be transferred between different modes of transport (e.g., from ship to rail).
- Hazardous Materials: Items or agents which present a risk to health, property, or the environment during transportation.
Online References
- Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)
- Tank Car Resource Center
- Association of American Railroads (AAR)
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The History of North American Railroads” by Brian Solomon
- “Railway Management and Engineering” by V.A. Profillidis
- “Dangerous Goods Regulations” by International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Fundamentals of Tank Car: Transportation Basics Quiz
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