What are the Requirements for Installing LPG Loading Arms?
There are numerous types of loading arms, and each type has its own standards in terms of materials and installation. According to the general requirements for liquefied gas loading arms, mainly, no copper materials should be used in all fittings, and breakaway valves and shutoff valves should be equipped. Besides, there are also the following requirements.
Connection Type with Tank Trucks: For both gas and liquid phases, stainless steel quick couplings are used to connect with tank trucks. This connection method not only ensures the tightness of the connection but also facilitates quick and efficient loading and unloading operations. It can effectively prevent gas or liquid leakage during the connection process, enhancing the overall safety of the operation.
The manufacturing of loading arms should comply with the requirements of HG/T 21608 standard. All welds of the pressure-bearing main pipelines should adopt argon arc welding and undergo strict flaw detection inspections and hydraulic pressure tests to fully meet the HG/T 21608 standard. The strict welding and testing procedures guarantee the structural integrity and pressure resistance of the loading arms, making them reliable in handling liquefied gas under various pressure conditions.
The rotary joints of loading arms require precision machining. They need to have a large load-bearing capacity and rotate flexibly. The sealing rings should possess superior and reliable sealing performance, strong wear resistance and corrosion resistance, and a long service life. The specifications of the sealing rings for the same model of loading arms should be the same and interchangeable. The rotary joints should undergo load tests. During the tests, the rotary joints should rotate flexibly without any leakage or permanent deformation. High-quality rotary joints and sealing rings are essential to maintain the continuous and stable operation of the loading arms, reducing maintenance frequency and downtime.
High-strength bolts are preferably selected as the fasteners for fixing and connecting the loading arm system. These bolts can provide firm support and connection, ensuring that the loading arms remain stable during operation, even under the influence of external forces such as vibrations and impacts.
The groove types and sizes of loading arm welds should conform to the relevant regulations of GB/T 985. Non-destructive testing should be carried out in accordance with the requirements of JB 4730 - 2005. By following these strict welding and testing standards, potential defects in the welds can be detected and corrected in time, further enhancing the safety and reliability of the loading arms.
The pipelines (including valves, etc.) in contact with liquid ammonia are advisable to be made of stainless steel. Stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance to liquid ammonia, preventing pipeline corrosion and ensuring the purity of the transported liquefied gas.
Based on the above content, during the manufacturing and installation of liquefied gas loading arms, it is necessary to abide by these requirements to ensure better usability and safety. Only by strictly following these standards can we guarantee the efficient and reliable operation of the liquefied gas loading and unloading process, protecting the environment and the safety of personnel and equipment.
