MS MS SicherheitstechnikPROTECTOR S49-I
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APPLICATION

Rail hooks in LPG loading – Function and integration on rail tank cars

Function, integration into quick-shut and emergency-stop systems, interaction of bottom valves and pull rope.

PROCESS

LPG loading on rail tank cars – the process

Safe control of the bottom valves plays a central role in LPG loading on pressurised tank cars. As long as the quick-closing bottom valves are open and the other plant conditions are met, the transfer process can take place. When the bottom valves are closed, the transfer is safely interrupted.

Schematic representation of the LPG loading station for rail tank cars
Loading station – schematic
RELEVANCE

Why the rail hook is safety-relevant

If appropriately integrated, the rail hook can be part of the safety chain of the loading station. Its function is directly linked to the open/closed state of the bottom valves.

In normal operation the rail hook holds the bottom valves open via the pull rope (tension rope according to DIN EN 12561-3). If the rail hook releases the pull rope, the bottom valves can close. The exact function depends on the technical design and integration of the respective installation.

In case of a malfunction, leakage, activation of the emergency stop system or unintended movement/rolling of the tank car the safety chain can be triggered, causing the bottom valves to close and securing the transfer process.

SYSTEM CONTEXT

Bottom valves, pull rope and quick-shut system – the interaction

  1. Bottom valves

    As long as the bottom valves are open and the other plant conditions are met, the transfer process can take place. When the bottom valves are closed, the transfer is safely interrupted.

  2. Pull rope

    The pull rope connects the rail hook mechanically with the bottom valves. Valve state is influenced via tensioning and release of the rope.

  3. Pneumatic control

    The reduction of the control pressure can cause the rail hook to release the pull rope and the bottom valves to close. The exact function depends on the technical design and integration of the respective installation.

  4. Quick-shut and emergency-stop system

    The pneumatic rail hook Protector S49-I can be integrated into the quick-shut and emergency-stop system of the loading station. Exact integration depends on the design of the respective installation.

System schema of the safety chain: Protector S49-I, quick-shut, emergency-stop, bottom valves
Safety chain – system schema
PRODUCT

The Protector S49-I in this application

MS Sicherheitstechnik provides the Protector S49-I for this specific application. The Protector S49-I is a pneumatically controlled rail hook for rail tank cars in LPG loading.

Planning and project documents are available on request.

Product details →
REQUIREMENTS

Requirements and ATEX certificate

The Protector S49-I was tested by TÜV Rheinland and can be used according to the test report in Zone 1 and Zone 2. The full test report and further technical documents are available.

Safety & ATEX →
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about LPG loading with rail hooks

What is a rail hook used for in LPG loading?
A rail hook can be integrated into the safety logic of the loading station and act on the position of the bottom valves via a pull rope.
What role do bottom valves play in LPG transfer?
In LPG loading on rail tank cars, safe control of bottom valves is crucial. As long as bottom valves are open and conditions are met, transfer can proceed. Closing the bottom valves interrupts the transfer process for safety.
How does the rail hook relate to the quick-shut system?
If the quick-shut or emergency-stop system is triggered, the safety chain can cause the rail hook to release the pull rope and the bottom valves to close. Implementation depends on the design of the installation.
Is the Protector S49-I suitable for every loading station?
Whether the Protector S49-I fits a specific installation depends on the existing control infrastructure, quick-shut system and installation situation.
For which rail profile is the Protector S49-I suitable?
The Protector S49-I is designed for the S-49 rail profile (DIN 5902 / Profile 49 E 1 according to DIN EN 13674-1) – hence the product name.
What is a tension rope?
A tension rope according to DIN EN 12561-3 is a defined holding or pulling device at the lower filling and emptying devices of rail tank cars for pressurised gases.

Submit a technical enquiry

For technical enquiries about LPG loading, the Protector S49-I and available documents, we are available by e-mail and phone.

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