petrodiesel/biodiesel transportation in cold climates

Question

petrodiesel/biodiesel transportation in cold climates

curve3104 (Mechanical)

(OP)

7 Sep 06 17:12

I'm looking into transporting either biodiesel or petrodiesel by truck or rail in cold climates. Is anyone aware of how these vessels are heated to prevent gelling? I would assume electric traced, but not sure. They may possibly be insulated only, but I'm not sure. Links to a website or some catalog info on tanker trucks or railcars would be appreciated.

Thanks!

rmw (Mechanical) · Answer 1 · 2006-09-07 21:50:31

Rail cars designed for fluids that need heating have steam or heat transfer liquid jacketing attached to or incorporated into the shell.

I googled -jacketed tank cars- and got 83,900 hits.

rmw

epoisses (Chemical) · Answer 2 · 2006-09-08 04:23:47

I may be stating the obvious, but if the diesel is meant for use in the same climate, it will in any case be blended with lighter components such that it wouldn't freeze in the car reservoir at night.

BigInch (Petroleum) · Answer 3 · 2006-09-08 09:06:39

Nope

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curve3104 (Mechanical) · Answer 4 · 2006-09-08 09:16:19

I did the same search, brought up the same hits...none have specs on tanker cars. Fuel oil will definately gel in northern climates, especially when we are talking near Canada. That's why they have heating coils and insulation. Just need to get a general idea of how these cars are heated, what kind of system is used, and relative heating loads.

BigInch (Petroleum) · Answer 5 · 2006-09-08 10:57:14

Viscosity is about 10.5 cP at -10ºC and it starts gelling around there too. Bio should start gelling at a higher temp, maybe -7 -5ºC or so.

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BigInch (Petroleum) · Answer 6 · 2006-09-08 10:59:42

Bio might even be higher. Just remembered Olive oil is frozen solid at -10ºC.

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curve3104 (Mechanical) · Answer 7 · 2006-09-08 11:03:38

Yes, I have an idea of temperatures to be maintained...question is the method. Need some details on how the tanker cars are heated.

BigInch (Petroleum) · Answer 8 · 2006-09-08 11:13:31

Oh ya.

http://www.dot.state.fl.us/rail/Publications/ConnectivityNeeds/appb.pdf#search=%22rail%20car%20heating%20petro%22

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petrodiesel/biodiesel transportation in cold climates