Tank Trucks - What You Really Must Know

1. Tank Trucks - What You Really Must Know!

2. Tank trucks, also known by the name of tankers, are used in many different industries today. Defined as any commercial vehicle equipped with containers that can be either single or compartmentalized, they are used to carry large volumes of liquid material. They usually carry 1,000 gallons or more, although most are much larger than that capacity. Tank trucks offer many different sizes that include units with single rear axles to dual-equipped ones that are tractor trailers hauling larger amounts and requiring specific operational training.

3. Practical Requirements Although at first glance appearing rather simple, much more must be known about these vehicles to ensure they are properly used and maintained which will in turn make working with tank trucks easy and safe. Operator License - Because these types of trucks handle very differently than most other similar vehicles, most states require drivers of these vehicles to get a CDL commercial license. Obtaining a CDL license can usually mean that drivers have received specialized training and have become familiar with the intricacies of handling a specific type of vehicle that will be driven, especially since tankers drive and handle very differently than any other commercial vehicle that is operated on the roads and highways.

4. Operator Capability - Successful operation of any tank truck involves careful attention to details such as speed, cornering and turning, and understanding how a moving liquid load can affect the balance of even a very heavy truck and cause it to flip over. Knowing how to control liquid surge is an important part of driving any tanker, which can make the difference between a job well done and a disaster.

5. Load Information - Attention needs to be paid to knowing what substances are currently being carried, what was carried before, and how certain materials react with each other or the container itself. Drivers must know good loading techniques, how much can be safely carried, and how to keep weight balanced with compartmentalized and baffled containers. Knowing that liquids expand and contract at different rates dependent upon which type is being carried is another important detail that will avoid overloading.

6. Safety and Maintenance In addition to the above practical requirements, it is also vital to monitor safety and maintenance issues as well. Maintenance - As with any commercial vehicle, these trucks require on-time, regular maintenance, although such attention is more specific than many vehicles. The tank should be examined for leaks and dents as well as proper functioning of all valves, vents and manhole covers. A breakdown or malfunction with this truck can be much more serious than one occurring with other types of commercial vehicles.

7. Safety Equipment - Emergency shutoff devices should be routinely tested and grounding equipment should be carefully monitored for proper functioning when in use. All safety gear and equipment carried by each truck and operator must always be present and in good condition to serve its purpose. Competent Driving - To prevent accidents, tank trucks must be driven at safe speeds that differ with the weight of the load being carried. Unable to rapidly respond to quick directional changes, drivers must be skillful at maintaining control without the under or over steering that can lead to accidents. Practice and learning about tanker response under different situations requires a driving skill that is learned over time.

8. Sources for this presentation: • http://www.entrec.com/services/heavy-haul-conventional/ • http://ezinearticles.com/?Tank-Trucks---What-You-Really-Must-Know!&id=7760254