Ground Flatness Requirements for LPG Loading Arm Installation
I. Significance of Ground Flatness
The ground flatness of the installation foundation for LPG loading arms (handling flammable and explosive media) directly impacts the equipment's operational stability, sealing performance, and service life. Uneven ground imposes extra stress on components (e.g., swivel joints, arm systems), increasing the risk of medium leakage and compromising the safety and efficiency of loading/unloading operations.
II. Specific Technical Requirements for Ground Flatness
Allowable Flatness Deviation
The planarity deviation of the entire installation area should be ≤2mm/m (i.e., height difference within 2mm per meter of length).
For support points of the loading arm foundation (e.g., concrete bases or bracket installation positions), the local flatness deviation must be ≤1mm/m to ensure uniform stress on the support structure.
Inspection Scope and Methods
Scope: Cover the loading arm operation area and the surrounding 1-meter ground, including the loading platform and support foundations.
Tools: Use a spirit level, laser screed, or a 2-meter straightedge with feeler gauges to measure multiple points along vertical and horizontal directions, ensuring full-area data coverage.
Special Requirements for Ground Foundations
For concrete foundations, control flatness during pouring and perform secondary leveling after curing. Use high-strength mortar or specialized flooring materials to repair uneven areas.
For steel or metal-structured grounds, adjust flatness by welding or bolting support frames, ensuring that the installation surface of the loading arm base is horizontal (deviation ≤1mm over 1 meter).
III. Impact of Non-Compliant Flatness
Component Damage: Uneven ground causes eccentric loading on swivel joints, leading to accelerated seal wear and potential leakage.
Operation Instability: Arm systems may jam or rotate unevenly, affecting docking accuracy with tankers and increasing operational risks.
Safety Hazards: Excessive stress on pipelines due to ground tilt may cause flange misalignment, increasing the probability of LPG leakage and fire/explosion risks.
IV. Construction and Maintenance Recommendations
Pre-installation Treatment: Use leveling agents or reinforcing plates for rough ground surfaces to achieve the required flatness.
Post-installation Monitoring: Regularly inspect ground settlement (e.g., quarterly) using precision measuring instruments, and promptly rectify any deviations exceeding the standard.
Complying with these ground flatness requirements ensures the structural stability and safe operation of LPG loading arms, minimizing accident risks in hazardous media handling.
