Propane Systems: LPG Truck Unloading Stations
Truck delivery stations offer a perfect blend of safety and efficiency. These stations are designed for acceptance of both full transport trucks and smaller bobtail vehicles.
Fuel Transfer
Bobtail
up to 3,500 gallons
Transport
up to 10,000 gallons
Railcar
up to 30,000 gallons
LP-gas is delivered to most consumers via truck and railcar. Almost all standby systems are equipped for trucks, while a minority also use rail. In general, a consumer will get a better buy on propane if purchased in transport or railcar quantities.
Truck Fuel Transfer Station
The location and construction of fuel transfer stations are important design factors. At LPG plants with more than 4,000 gallons total storage capacity, NFPA 58 requires emergency valves at transfer stations to allow quick closure. A "breakaway" feature is also required to protect plant piping in the event of a connected-truck pull away.
Trucks normally have power-take-off pumps to transfer product. Top-fitted railcars require the use of vapor compressors to "push" the liquid propane out and, on a secondary cycle, recover much of the remaining propane vapor.