Alberta is home to one of the largest sources of bitumen (or heavy crude oil) in the world, and our local operations extract, transport, and process large quantities of this material every single day. Does your facility regularly deal with bitumen? If so, you’ll need a safe, reliable, and efficient bitumen loading system. Keep reading to learn more about the key elements of this system–and how Northern Platforms can help. 

Key Takeaways

• Bitumen is a thick and viscous petroleum by-product that only flows above 140°C. Below this threshold, it solidifies into a gelled mass that clogs equipment and forces costly shutdowns.
• Standard, uninsulated loading arms fail to maintain ideal bitumen loading temperature, leading to recurring blockages, frequent maintenance, and premature equipment replacement. 
• Effective bitumen loading systems are comprised of several key elements, including a loading arm, heat management systems, and supporting infrastructure. 

The Challenges of Bitumen Loading

Bitumen, also called heavy crude or crude oil, is a byproduct of crude oil refining, which is used in road construction, waterproofing, and industrial adhesives. When it comes to transporting this product, here’s the important part: it can be extremely difficult to load. In order for bitumen to flow—and be loaded effectively—operators have two options:

• Dilute the product with a light petroleum product, which creates diluted bitumen (also called dilbit).
• Use heat management and insulated loading systems to keep the product very hot (typically above 140°C)

No matter which method your operation uses, you’ll need an effective bitumen loading system. Keep reading to learn more about essential elements. 

Key Components of a Bitumen Loading System

OPW Loading Arms

An OPW loading arm is the foundation of any good heavy crude loading system. OPW offers premium-grade top and bottom loading arms specifically engineered for asphalt, bitumen, and other high-temperature applications.

Configuration Options:

• Fixed Reach Style Loading Arms: Ideal for standard truck loading applications where vehicles park consistently at the same position.
• Supported or Unsupported Boom Style Loaders: Designed for longer reaches, multi-hatch access, or railcar loading where extended horizontal reach is required.

OPW loading arms are designed to integrate seamlessly with steam jacketing, steam tracing, and custom insulation packages, ensuring consistent product temperatures.

Heat Management Systems

As we’ve already mentioned, proper heavy crude loading relies on keeping the product (and loading arm) warm. Through our partnerships with OPW, Northern Platforms offers several insulation and heating solutions, including: 

Custom Insulation Packages

•  2-inch insulation for superior heat retention.
• Removable and reusable design for easy maintenance access.
• Teflon-impregnated jackets for durability and corrosion resistance.
• Engineered fit that preserves the full articulation range.

Electric Insulation

• Electrical temperature maintenance keeps temperatures steady, which prevents products from solidifying and clogging systems. 
• Include a thermostat to help maintain a specific temperature.
• Compliant with relevant safety regulations. 

Steam Tracing 

• The boiler tube is strapped onto the core pipe.
• Conductive heat transfer up to 350°F.
• Cost-effective alternative for mid-range operations.

Steam Jacketing

• Fully encloses the core pipe with an outer pipe.
• Conductive steam-generated heat transfer enables loading process temperatures above 300°F.
• Maintains product temperature throughout the loading cycle.
• Eliminates cold spots and residual buildup.

Not sure which heat management or insulation option is right for you–and your budget? Contact Northern Platforms, and we can walk you through your options, including a rough cost estimate. 

Supporting Infrastructure 

Your loading arm doesn’t work in isolation. Instead, several systems operate together to help streamline bitumen loading and unloading. Other elements of a comprehensive bitumen loading system include:

• Truck loading platforms or railcar loading platforms for worker safety.
• Spill containment equipment to meet environmental regulations.
• Dry disconnects and breakaway couplings for safe loading and emergency disconnection protection. 

No matter what product you are handling, Northern Platforms has the equipment you need for safe and efficient operations. Interested in learning more about what we offer? Call our office today.

Why Choose Northern Platforms for Your Bitumen Loading System

There’s no question that heavy crude can be tough to load. But with the right equipment–supplied from a trusted provider–it’s easy to overcome these challenges. Northern Platforms partners with OPW to deliver complete bitumen loading solutions tailored to your site:

• Expert site assessment: We evaluate your platform, vehicle types, and operational profile.
• Custom arm selection: We specialize in top and bottom loading arms, including steam-jacketed arms designed specifically for asphalt and bitumen loading
• Professional turn-key installation: As loading system experts, we will ensure your new loading arm is compatible with all your existing systems.
• Ongoing maintenance and support: Preventative programs keep your system running year-round.

Contact Us Today

Ready to start building your bitumen loading system? The Northern Platforms team has got you covered. Contact us for more information and to receive a free quote today!