Notably, the MK3 Safeload semi-automatic bottom loading coupler is the first and only such coupler on the market to have an extended “wrap around” trigger design that follows the profile of the loading adaptor, covering over 60% of the adaptor circumference. This unique feature ensures maximum safety and security of connection between the adaptor and coupler, reducing the risk of product leakage. The increased surface area contact, in comparison with conventional narrow triggers, significantly reduces wear to both the triggers and the adaptor, which prolongs the serviceable life of both units.
The Safeload coupler design ensures that there is only a minimal amount of residual fuel in the poppet void space on disconnection and protects against any ingress of foreign debris. Concurrently, the amount of liquid loss on disconnection has proven to be, on average, 75% less than the permitted 5cc.
In line with BS EN13083 for bottom loading & unloading adaptors, BS EN12266-1 and BS EN12266-2, Fort Vale recently designed and conducted an in-house endurance test programme for its MK3 Safeload coupler. Initially, Fort Vale had intended to mimic an estimated operational working life based on one operation every twenty minutes, over a constant 24 hour day for five years (equalling 131,400 cycles). In fact, the test continued to 250,000 cycles, which represents 10 times the number of cycles called for in BS EN13083. The coupler was connected, opened, pressurized with fluid for a set period of time, closed and then disconnected. A counter was affixed to the coupler to automatically record the number of connections. On completion, the coupler was found to be leak-free at the MAWP and there was no significant wear or damage to any of the parts.
Similarly, in routine inspections on units in the field, 18 month old couplers that have endured hard service through two winters with a throughput in excess of 90 million litres have shown no sign of wear to the triggers or seals.
To replicate the rigours of daily service, Fort Vale went on to perform Impact Testing on the MK3 Safeload coupler with repeated side impact and drop tests based on the requirements of BS EN13463. Following testing, the coupler remained in the closed position with the interlock fully engaged, proving that it is more than capable of withstanding repeated harsh treatment without compromising the safety of the product, the operating personnel or the environment.
In light of these sterling test results, Fort Vale now offers its Safeload coupler with an unprecedented a 3 Year Warranty on all metal parts under Standard Environmental Conditions*. This demonstrates the company’s confidence in the quality and integrity of its coupler design and its ability to offer a sound and far-reaching after-sales service. The Safeload is also compliant with ATEX Group II Cat. 2, EN13083 and API RP1004 and each coupler sold is supplied with comprehensive operating instructions.
The loading connection between the coupler on the gantry and the tanker adaptor is one of the most critical areas of safety during the loading process, with the significant potential for product spillage or leakage. To minimise these possibilities, Fort Vale have responded with two wear gauges, one for the Safeload coupler and one for the tanker loading adaptor (the “nose”).
The Safeload gauge is double-ended. One end of the gauge indicates that the coupler is showing signs of wear as a warning to the operator. The other end of the gauge simply states “Remove from Service”, indicating that the coupler may be sufficiently worn to risk a spill if it was coupled onto a worn tanker adaptor. (This safety device is suitable for checking Fort Vale couplers only.)
The tanker “nose” gauge is designed to check the wear on both the outside diameter and the contact face that the coupler latches onto. The gauge slides easily over the adaptor and has a simple graduated reading between original condition and the maximum wear limit. Such is the impact of this tool on safety performance that it has been adopted into Part B.12.2 of the U.K.’s “Safe Loading Pass Scheme” for trailers and tanker equipment.
“Fort Vale’s continual programme of improvements to its products and working practices underlines the company’s mission to make a major contribution to safety within the Petroleum Industry by providing the most robust, safe and cost-effective products possible, backed up by a worldwide after-sales service.”
*Warranty details can be found at www.fortvale.com/english/saleterm.pdf (paragraph 9)