Fuel loading and unloading can create serious safety, environmental, and operational challenges. From flammable vapours to product spills, even a routine transfer can become risky, especially if you don’t have the right equipment.
That’s why more and more site managers are investing in proper safety systems, such as loading arms with integrated vapour recovery. These systems help capture displaced vapours during loading or unloading, reducing emissions and helping protect operators, equipment, and the environment.
A vapour recovery system is a closed-loop configuration designed to capture hydrocarbon vapours that are displaced or released during the transfer of volatile liquids.
These systems are used across a wide range of industries, from petroleum terminals and chemical plants to food and beverage facilities and gas stations. In every application, the goal is the same: keep Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) out of the air.
How Do Vapour Recovery Systems Work?
In the context of tanker truck loading and unloading, the basic principles of vapour recovery systems are simple. The process unfolds in three stages:
1. Vapour Capture When the loading arm connects to the tanker truck, a vapour recovery coupler or hose creates an airtight seal at the connection point. As product flows in, displaced vapours are drawn into the vapour return circuit rather than escaping through the fill opening.
2. Vapour Transfer The captured vapours travel back through the loading arm’s vapour return line, either via a piggyback hose welded to the product arm, or through a dedicated second arm in a dual-arm configuration.
3. Vapour Recovery and Re-use At the receiving end, captured vapours are processed — either returned directly to the product storage tank, compressed and condensed back into liquid form, or fed into a vapour combustion or treatment unit.
The end result is a closed system: product flows in, vapours flow back, and nothing escapes to atmosphere during normal operation.
Benefits of Vapour Recovery Systems
More and more operations managers are adding vapour recovery systems to their tanker truck loading systems. Here’s why:
Environmental Impact
Hydrocarbon vapours released during fuel loading are composed primarily of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Canada’s Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) establishes regulations on VOC emissions from fuel loading and storage operations, and provincial regulators in Alberta and BC have their own emissions requirements for petroleum handling facilities. Vapour recovery systems capable of capturing upwards of 95% of displaced vapours are required by these regulations.
Worker Safety
Displaced vapours can also be dangerous for workers. Without vapour recovery, operators can be exposed to a cloud of flammable vapour throughout the loading process, which creates a serious hazard.
A sealed vapour recovery system eliminates that exposure at the source. Workers on the loading platform aren’t breathing displaced product vapours and fire hazards are substantially lowered. For sites already managing fall protection, PPE requirements, and emergency shutoff systems, vapour recovery is an important piece of the overall site safety picture.
Operational Efficiency
The right vapour recovery system can also reduce time on the loading rack. At Northern Platforms, we use OPW’s Drylok™ Vapour Recovery Technology, which helps reduces the average time to connect a loading arm to railcar valves to 35–40 seconds. Operators simply turn a lever to connect; no pipe wrenches, cheater bars, or hammers required. That reduction in connection time adds up fast across a high-volume loading operation.
Vapour Recovery in Tanker Truck Loading and Unloading
At Northern Platforms, we use OPW Engineered Systems products to offer two primary vapour recovery loading arm configurations:
Piggyback Style Arm A simpler and more compact design where the vapour return line is welded directly to the product loading arm. The vapour hose runs parallel to the arm structure and connects at the dome hatch alongside the product drop tube. This configuration works well for lower-volume applications or sites where space at the loading rack is limited.
Dual Arm / Siamese Configuration The more commonly specified design for higher-volume or more demanding applications. This configuration uses two separate loading arms, one for product transfer and one for vapour recovery, joined together at the inner boom structure so they operate as a single, counterbalanced unit. The dual arm arrangement provides better flow capacity for the vapour return circuit and is the preferred setup for most fuel terminal and petroleum loading applications.
In addition to core system design, Northern Platforms offers a range of customization options to match the specific demands of your product and operating environment, including steam jacketing, heat tracing, insulation packages, and specialized couplings. Contact us with your site requirements, and we can recommend the right configuration for your operation.
Request a Quote Today
Interested in a new fuel tanker unloading system or looking to improve your existing operation? The Northern Platforms team is here to help. Contact us today with details about your project for a free quote. For businesses based in Alberta, we also offer free site visits and assessments.
Efficient, safe, and effective–bottom loading arms are a worthwhile addition to your loading system.
Northern Platforms offers a wide selection of trusted and ergonomic bottom-loading arms from established brands like OPW Engineered Systems and EMCO Wheaton. Ready to integrate bottom-loading arms into your operation? Let’s go over some key things to consider before you make this purchase.
What are Bottom Loading Arms?
As the name suggests, bottom loading arms are used when loading from the bottom and should be paired with trucks or railcars that accommodate a bottom loading configuration.
Bottom-loading arms are a safer and more efficient alternative to hoses. Read more about the difference between hoses and loading arms in our previous post: “Hoses vs Loading Arms: Which Works Best?”
Here are some more advantages of bottom-loading arms:
Operator safety: Workers remain on the ground, which reduces fall risks.
Faster loading: Quicker connections and the ability to load multiple compartments at the same time.
Less turbulence: The process generates less turbulence in the tank, which helps lower static generation.
Less vapours: Fewer vapours are released, which helps lessen the environmental impact.
More cost-effective: Typically, these systems are easier and cheaper to build than top-loading arms.
Key Considerations for Choosing Bottom Loading Arms
There are several factors to consider when choosing your bottom loading arm. It is essential to consider your existing operation to ensure that you can find the right equipment for you.
If you aren’t sure where to start, contact Northern Platforms, and we will be happy to help you find a loading configuration that integrates seamlessly into your existing operation.
What type of fluid are you handling?
First, it is important to ensure that the materials of your bottom loading arm are compatible with the fluid you are moving.
For example, if you are moving corrosive substances, you will want to ensure that your bottom loading arms are made of a corrosion-resistant material like stainless steel. However, if you are moving non-hazardous materials, you could use carbon steel, which is often cheaper and lighter.
What type of vehicle are you loading?
Whether you are loading a tanker truck or a railcar, the type of vehicle you are loading affects the design of your bottom loading arms. Keep in mind that different vehicles have specific connection points and height requirements. Make sure to choose an arm that can easily reach and securely connect to your vehicle to avoid leaks and operational issues.
What is your loading environment like?
Your loading environment can significantly impact the type of loading arm you need. Consider: is there existing equipment that would interfere with your loading arm? Do you need an operation that is suitable for outdoor use? Are there other environmental factors you should consider, like extreme temperatures or exposure to hazardous chemicals?
What additional safety equipment do you need?
While bottom loading arms are a good start, there are always ways to make your site safer and more efficient. At Northern Platforms, we offer extra safety equipment to help ensure that your loading system operates smoothly and safely.
While bottom loading arms can improve the efficiency and safety of your loading and unloading operations, working with an experienced team is essential to ensure this new addition integrates seamlessly into your existing operation. That’s where Northern Platforms comes in. We’ll consider your existing equipment and ensure your new loading arm fits perfectly.
With over 50 years of industry experience, Northern Platforms is always happy to send one of our experts to your site. We’ll conduct a thorough evaluation every time to help guarantee a perfect match. Contact us today to find the loading arm that is right for you.
When it comes to loading a fuel tanker, proper loading equipment is essential. By using the right equipment, you can maximize workplace efficiency, as well as significantly reduce the risk of accidents and spills. At Northern Platforms, we are proud to be industry-leading providers of renowned safety brands like SafeRack, Emco Wheaton, OPW, and more.
Whether you need loading arms, loading platforms, gangways, safety cages, or hoses, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to learn more about our top fuel tanker loading equipment.
Loading Arms
The safest and most efficient piece of fuel tanker loading equipment is a loading arm. These loading systems are designed to seamlessly and securely connect the fuel tanker to the storage tank. Loading arms can also include several safety features, such as swivel joints, automatic shut-off valves, and more. By using loading arms, companies can minimize the risks associated with manual connections and enhance operational safety.
Are looking to integrate a loading arm into your existing operation? Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced sales team members and learn more about how Northern Platforms can help.
Hoses and Couplings
If your operation isn’t compatible with a loading arm, then you will have to use a different type of fuel tanker loading equipment, such as hoses and couplings.
At Northern Platforms, we offer a complete selection of custom hose assemblies supplied to meet your specific requirements and individual needs. We stock a variety of hose sizes in-house, ranging from ¼-inch to 6-inch. Plus, larger sizes are available upon request.
We offer three different types of hoses:
Composite Hoses: A unique type of hose composed of many layers of special materials/films held together between an inner and outer wire. Composite hoses offer flexibility, safety, and chemical resistance. They are ideal for use in most petroleum, oil, chemical, and LPG transfer applications.
Metal Braided Hoses: Northern Platforms offers a wide variety of specialized products, such as stainless steel braids, metal hoses, and flexible hose assemblies.
Industrial Hoses: Northern Platforms is proud to offer a full line of industrial hoses, including rubber, PTFE, air/water, steam, and suction/discharge hoses
In addition to hoses, Northern Platforms offers several fuel tanker loading accessories, including:
Hiltap fittings, also known as low/high temperature & pressure couplings
Hose handlers and hose retriever components
Sight flow indicators
Swivel joints
Hose and coupling restraints, such as velcro straps and whip checks
Fuel Tanker Loading Equipment, Tested
Did you know that Northern Platforms offers in-house hose testing and recertification up to 1200 PSI? Each hose comes with a chart showing the duration of the test and the pressure it was tested to.
Additionally, we can also help you test your hoses to ensure they are in good working condition. To make sure your hoses meet safety standards, Northern Platforms offers hose recertification testing. We’ll test your hoses, and if they pass, they’ll be recertified with a new ID tag. If they don’t, we can tag them and recycle them for you.
Your Source for Fuel Tanker Loading Equipment
No matter what your operation looks like, Northern Platforms has all your safe access and fuel tanker loading equipment needs covered. We are committed to providing our customers with superior quality products, on-time delivery, and outstanding service. Contact us today to learn more about how you can make your fuel tanker loading system safer and more efficient.
When handling chemicals in industrial settings, selecting the right chemical top loading arm is essential for safety and operational efficiency. These specialized systems provide a reliable connection between storage tanks and transportation vehicles, such as trucks and railcars, which helps streamline all loading and unloading operations.
When choosing which chemical top loading arm is right for your job, there are a couple of things you should consider. Let’s break it down.
Material Compatibility: Stainless Steel versus Carbon Steel
First, make sure that the loading arm’s materials are compatible with the chemicals being handled since chemicals can be corrosive or reactive. By selecting the right material, you can ensure that your loading arm stays safe and in good working condition for longer.
Most loading arms are available in carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Typically, stainless steel is the best choice for handling most chemicals due to its corrosion resistance. For chemicals that aren’t highly corrosive, try cost-effective carbon steel.
Loading Connection: Tight versus Splash
Next, decide what type of loading connection you need. There are two main types: tight loading and splash loading.
As the name suggests, tight loading forms a tight, sealed connection. This helps prevent chemical vapours or fumes from escaping, which is important when working with hazardous or volatile chemicals. However, a tight loading connection offers no flexibility.
Splash loading, on the other hand, is an open and flexible connection. This type of loading is faster and less expensive than tight loading. However, since the connection is less sealed, splash loading may cause exposure to fumes. As such, this connection should be used for less hazardous chemicals.
When ordering your top loading arm from Northern Platforms, make sure to specify which type of connection you’ll need so that we can ensure our product is 100% compatible with your existing system.
Reach Capabilities: Variable versus Fixed
The reach of your loading arm is another important consideration. Do you need flexibility to connect to different-sized vehicles or containers? Or will you consistently be loading and unloading chemicals from the same type of vessel? This will determine if you need a variable or fixed reach loading arm.
A variable reach top loading arm is highly adjustable and flexible, meaning that you can adapt your loading operations to handle a variety of tanker sizes. Unsupported and supported boom are two popular styles of variable top loading arms.
On the other hand, fixed reach arms are usually set to a specific height and length. This kind of top loading arm is simple, reliable, and best used for loading operations that are standardized across all vehicles.
Your Canadian Source for Loading Arms
At Northern Platforms, we pride ourselves on making Canadian worksites safer and more efficient. Based in Alberta, we can be onsite within days to deliver your order. Plus, we have over 20 years of industry experience, meaning that we are here to help you with all your specific needs.
Interested? Contact us today and let our team walk you through our options for a chemical top loading arm. Plus, you can explore our catalogue for all our safety solutions.
The oil and gas industry encounters many challenges during loading and unloading operations as it must adhere to several safety, industry, and environmental regulations. This can make determining the best possible loading system for your operations challenging. Fortunately, with over twenty years of experience providing Canadian companies with top-quality access and loading solutions, Northern Platforms is here to help.
Below, we will compare hoses and loading arms and then walk you through the three main styles of loading arms, helping you determine which would be best for your oil and gas operations. Continue reading to learn more.
Hoses vs. Loading Arms: Some Considerations
You have several options when searching for the correct loading solution for your operations. However, you must first decide whether you will utilize hoses or loading arms. While loading arms tends to be the industry standard for oil and gas operations, many companies do opt to use hoses for a number of reasons.
Before looking further into one or the other, let’s look at a few things you should consider before deciding that hoses or loading arms are your best choice.
Hoses:
Requires regular annual pressure tests
Can be difficult to stow when not in use
Can be driven over or dropped
May be very heavy to use if fitted with a valve at the tanker connection point
Faces challenges when heated or features a vent/purge valve
May be prone to catastrophic failure
Loading Arms:
Provides balanced and easy movement for various loading applications
Designed not to hit the ground, protecting the valves and couplers
Can be operated by one person
May be fitted with manual or actuated liquid valves and optional purge/vent components
May be moved into position with ease and left hanging in the air while the operator prepares the tanker connection
Can easily be stowed away when not in use
At Northern Platforms, we strongly recommend that oil and gas operations stick with the obvious and safer choice–loading arms. As a trusted distributor of OPW Engineered Systems products, we carry a wide range of loading arms that are perfect for oil and gas loading/unloading applications.
Next, we will provide a short overview of the three main styles of oil and gas loading arms Northern Platforms carries. That way, you can determine which would be best for your operations.
Top Loading Arms
Top loading arms provide tanker truck and railcar loading operations with an efficient and cost-effective means of handling oil and gas liquid products. A top loading arm system from Northern Platforms can provide your operations the protection your workers need to complete their duties efficiently without worrying about potential hazards like spills.
When selecting the right top loading arm for your oil and gas operations, our team will consider vehicle heights, required reach, vehicle spotting, material compatibility and more. At Northern Platforms, we can outfit your top loading arms for tight-fill, vapour recovery, marine, oil and gas, and other applications, ensuring your loading/unloading operations are safe and efficient.
Bottom Loading Arms
Bottom loading arms are the industry’s top choice when explicitly searching for loading arms for oil and gas applications. This is because bottom loading arms from Northern Platforms aid in reducing vapours and the risk of static electricity as they produce less turbulence in the tanker during loading.
Additionally, our bottom loading arms can be outfitted with vapour recovery components and quick-connect fittings to help speed up your loading/unloading times. With their improved ergonomics and enhanced safety, it’s no wonder Northern Platforms’ bottom loading arms are the industry standard for oil and gas operations.
Specialty/Custom Loading Arms
As the oil and gas industry has evolved to include biofuels and great environmental awareness, your loading system may require stringent features to ensure enhanced safety and eco-friendly fluid transfer practices.
At Northern Platforms, we can create specialty/custom loading arms for your oil and gas operations. From hatch plates and plugs to electric heat trace with insulation blankets, steam jacketing, or ContoTrace, we can ensure your loading system meets strict health/safety and environmental regulations.
Your Canadian Source for Safe Loading Solutions
While bottom-loading arms are often the best option for the oil and gas industry, other options may be better suited depending on your unique applications and facility requirements. Northern Platforms’ team is here to help you determine the best loading system solutions for your oil and gas operations. So, don’t hesitate to contact us, and let our team walk you through your options.
Together, we can ensure your loading/unloading operations are safe, efficient, and meet strict regulations.
From the petrochemical and biofuel industry to pharmaceutical manufacturing, the ability to easily and safely load and unload chemicals quickly and accurately is crucial. At Northern Platforms, we understand that efficient loading processes not only minimize downtime but also reduce the risk of spills and accidents.
However, enabling your operations to achieve the safest, most efficient, and compliant loading process possible means investing in equipment that’s engineered to handle the unique needs of chemical transfer applications. This is where our inventory of OPW Engineered Systems‘ top loading arms can help. Let us explain more below…
Types of Top Loading Arms for Chemical Loading
Top loading arms are critical for railcar and tanker truck chemical loading operations as they offer a range of benefits, including precise fluid control, adaptability, and reliability. At Northern Platforms, our OPW top loading arms inventory is engineered to provide the horizontal and vertical movement necessary to reach various compartments of railcars and trucks without the need for re-spotting.
When looking specifically at top loading arms for chemical loading applications, there are three main types Northern Platforms highly recommends:
1) Fixed Reach Style
OPW fixed reach top loading arms are popular for their simplicity and reliability. Designed for operations where the load vehicle parks at a specific distance from the riser pipe, this style of chemical top loading arm features swivel planes of rotation that facilitate smooth movement throughout the loading process. With options for valve placement and the ability to adapt these arms to tight-fill or close system loading, fixed reach chemical top loading arms offer a straightforward yet effective chemical loading solution.
Additional Features:
Available in 2″, 3″ and 4″ sizes
Available in carbon steel, stainless steel or aluminum
Choice of flanged, threaded or all-welded construction
2) Unsupported Boom Style
For chemical loading operations that require variable reach capabilities, the OPW unsupported boom style top loading arm from Northern Platforms should be your top choice. These loading arms’ medium reach capabilities and moderate flexibility make them a good option for applications where moving the load vehicle for accurate fluid transfer is possible. While unsupported boom style chemical top loading arms may be a bit limited in their capabilities, they are simple to operate and fold back for compact storage.
Additional Features:
Available in 2″, 3″, 4″ and 6″ sizes
Available in stainless steel, carbon steel or aluminum
Choice of flanged, threaded or all-welded construction
3) Supported Boom Style
Like its unsupported counterpart, the supported boom style top loading arm offers excellent reach. By incorporating support sections, this chemical top loading arm maximizes its reach and weight handling capabilities, making it an excellent choice for demanding chemical loading operations. Whether transferring sulfur, propane, or even asphalt, the OPW supported boom top loading arm offers unbeatable flexibility and performance.
Additional Features:
Available in 2″, 3″, 4″ and 6″ sizes
Available in aluminum, carbon steel or stainless steel
Choice of threaded, flanged, or all-welded construction
Simple Solutions for Complex Industries
At Northern Platforms, we understand the complexities of chemical loading operations. That’s why we offer a complete range of top loading arms explicitly designed to meet your loading, safety, environmental, and industry requirements. From our OPW fixed reach and supported boom styles to our ability to create a specialty solution that seamlessly integrates into your current loading platform, our chemical top loading arms are engineered for efficiency, reliability, and safe loading practices.
