CO2 Bulk Tanker Transfer

Traditionally, the Liquid CO2 bulk tanker transfer market has been the food and pharmaceutical industries, but this is rapidly expanding. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a viable method for reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and combating global warming. CCS involves capturing CO2 from power generation or industrial activities like hydrogen production, steelmaking, or cement manufacturing, transporting the captured CO2, and permanently storing it underground. Several initiatives globally aimed at capturing and transferring CO2 from industrial processes and power generation are being developed. Selecting the right systems for filling and emptying the tankers is crucial to the efficiency and success of any project.

Essential Guide Compressed Gas Tanker Loading

Safety is paramount in the handling and unloading of liquid CO2. CO2 is a colourless, odourless gas that can displace oxygen in the air, posing a risk of asphyxiation. It is also stored under high pressure and at low temperatures, which can cause severe cold burns if direct contact occurs. It can also exist as a liquid, gas, or solid. Avoiding the solid phase is where the technology comes in.

Loading and Unloading Equipment

Loading Arms: Specialised equipment designed to transfer CO2 from storage to transport vehicles and from road tankers to storage. These must be compatible with CO2’s low temperatures and high pressures.

A wide range of articulation is needed to ensure the arm can reach the ground-level connection points on the tanker.

There seems to be no uniform standard as yet, even though many of the tank trailers are “yet to be built”.

Dry Disconnect Couplings: Ensure minimal loss and prevent air ingress during loading and unloading.

Vapour Return Lines: Used to balance pressure during transfer and prevent over-pressurization.

Rail car loading racks are critical for safe and efficient CO2 transfer normally conducted on the top of the rail car. These structures provide access to the top of rail cars for operators and equipment.

Construction: Typically made from steel, these racks must support the weight of equipment and personnel.

Access and Safety: Equipped with stairs, platforms, and safety cages to prevent falls and ensure operator safety.

Integration with Equipment: Designed to accommodate loading arms and other transfer equipment.

Metering for Custody Transfer
Accurate metering is essential for custody transfer to ensure both parties know the exact amount of CO2 being transferred.

Flow Meters: Measure the volume of CO2 passing through a point. Common types include Coriolis, mass flow, and differential pressure flow meters.

Compressors: To increase the vapour return pressure to the road tanker when unloading, this maintains a controllable level of pressure in the tanker as the liquid is unloaded and then can pressurise the remaining vapours to re-liquify and create a heel in the tanker for its return journey

Temperature and Pressure Sensors: Used in conjunction with flow meters to provide accurate volume and mass readings by accounting for CO2’s variable properties.

Data Logging and Reporting Systems: Record transfer data for verification and billing purposes, ensuring transparency and accuracy.

However you intend to transfer CO2, you need to work with a competent and proven company that understands the risks and appreciates the safety and logistical issues you face.

You should also be talking to a company like us, which will package the whole solution to give you plug-and-play usability, high-quality components, and efficient service.