Two Canadian companies have combined efforts to produce a new vacuum-jacketed cryogenic tank trailer that distributes weight evenly over three axles for enhanced payload and improved stability. Complete Truck Maintenance (CTM), Markham, Ontario, constructed the vehicle from specifications provided by Air Liquide Canada, Montreal, Quebec.
With a payload of 10,000 gallons, the trailer and tractor weigh in at 110,000 pounds. That compares to trailers that normally would haul about 9,000 gallons. And by lowering the vehicle's center of gravity by about 12 inches, the threat of rollovers is reduced, says Anthony Lagenhuizen, CTM owner.
In addition to the two companies interaction, the Canadian federal and provincial governments contributed information to CTM in order for the vehicle to meet regulatory standards. Canada laws requires the trailers to meet code standards, unlike cryogenic vehicles in the United States, says Lagenhuizen.
“This is one of the reasons that I take a very active position in assisting in regulated protocol with federal and provincial governments,” he says. “I support the issues that provide stringent rules and regulations that can be followed without jeopardizing public safety and financial restraints.”
He also is active in the Compressed Gas Association, Canadian Standards Association, and Canadian Transport Equipment Association.
Another contribution to the Air Liquide Canada project was the CTM relationship with Alloy Custom Products, a US tank manufacturer that provided the stainless steel inner pressure vessel with steel outer shell, says Lagenhuizen.
Trailer hardware includes Goddard valves, Rockwood Swedinan vents, and Alloy Custom dome lids. For running gear, the trailers have Hendrickson Intraax air suspensions, MeritorWABCO anitlock braking, Michelin tires, Alcoa aluminum wheels, and Truck-Lite light-emitting diode (LED) lamps.
A self-contained pumping system includes a Perkins diesel engine mounted on the trailer that drives a Cryomac pump.
A DuPont exterior base/clear coat paint was chosen to preserve the tank's metal.
The CTM expertise began in 1983 when Lagenhuizen's father, Jack, provided truck and trailer mechanical services, welding, painting, and retrofit maintenance programs. Later, the company expanded into the propane tank repairing and testing. Eventually, high-pressure compressed gas tube trailers were added to the lineup.