IFC supplied a 2 inch supported long reach top loading arm to global composite and coating supplier Reichold.
Overview
We had previously supplied Reichold with bespoke gantries to allow their workers safe access to the tops of their tankers at their site in Mitcham. One year on and they were looking to expand their loading system with two new loading arms attached to two of the existing sets of folding stairs. This would streamline operations allowing their workers to efficiently load the tankers from the top while protected from falls by the bespoke fall prevention system.
Challenges
Reichold had requested a bespoke 3m safety cage in the previous project. This meant we had to ensure that the loading arms would be able to cover this entire space. The loading arms would have to be designed long enough that they would reach the furthest part of the cage from their position on the gantry.
Proposed Solution
IFC recommended a 2-inch articulated top loading arm model TLA-201-S6-50. This solution is a lightweight balanced loading arm that could be easily maneuvered by one operator to fill two pots on the tankers. The features of this model include:
- 3 part split flange swivel joint with double raceway bearings & energised PTFE seals
- Choice of riser or overhead inlet flange
- Mounting Bracket
- Adjustable compression spring balance
- Choice of straight mitre or tee deflector drop pipe termination
- Carbon finish
- Stainless welds pickled and passivated
There are a number of extras included as standard with the TLA-201 such as splash plates, tuning fork level switches and drip pans.
Results
The process of designing and installing the loading system went very smoothly as we had designed and built the existing gantry that the loading arm was to be attached to. We were able to design the loading arm to fit seamlessly onto the existing system.
The customer were thrilled with the new loading arms and can now load the pots on top of the tanker from anywhere within their large safety cage. Operations are now efficient and safe with minimal hazards.
