The Environmental Security Of Railroad Track Pans

By Maryellen Lamb


The world has become a more environmentally friendly place. This is due in part to the increased actions of the average individual seeking to save the planet. There have also been rules implemented that corporations have to adhere to. These rules make it mandatory for companies to adhere to environmental policies or face large fines. The focus is generally on the chemical companies and those that use these chemicals to make their products or facilitate their services. Products have been created to protect against chemical spills contaminating the environment. Railroad track pans are equally necessary.

People bypass the truth that rail cars are engineered to carry large levels of chemicals. There is a great focus on cars and trucks that could leak oil. Railroad tankers that leak are exponentially greater concerns. They in essence tend to be chemical warehouses on wheels.

Unlike stationary chemical silos, train tankers have an unlimited area of exposure, passing through community after community. They pass through crop fields, over city parks, and waterways. If chemical leaks occur the results could be far reaching and harmfully long lasting.

A rail car pan is a viable means to contain chemicals. The system of containment is an acceptable approach. It is an accepted spill prevention control and countermeasure. A rail transport company is required to have stable procedures in place for spillage. Pans are a stable approach which help them maintain compliance with all rules.

The troughs have been designed to function within standard rail track specifications. They are easily installed. The standards have been made historically of steel or concrete. These are normally installed at points in the rail yard where tankers and hoses are generally connected.

Concrete and steel troughs are usually considered permanent installations. If there is restructuring in a yard, these become very difficult to move. Movement could damage their ability to function adequately. The cost can be considerable as well. There are now pans made of high density polyethylene. This material is much lighter than steel and concrete, and it is far easier to install. It is less expensive and has a level of portability that steel or concrete does not.

One single pan has a size that can range up to 9 feet. It can hold up to 30 gallons or 50 pounds of liquid. A pan could be used in conjunction with others to make a more extensive containment zone. Additionally, there are helpful covers that are optional. These covers can greatly reduce the levels of rainwater that could collect in the pan. Since the troughs are inexpensive, extras could be kept on hand. They can be quickly available for those unexpected spill and leak emergencies. This provides a definite advantage in containing leaks and reducing environmental exposure.

Railroad track pans can be easily found and purchased on line. Care should be taken to make sure the pan specifications are suited for the desired needs. Some manufacturers provide customer service engineers that can help facilitate a selection and purchase that creates confidence. In any event, these pans are a necessity.




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