Although no two Ethylene Oxide Loading solutions will be identical, the product itself determines much of the critical design criteria that will ensure that optimum safety and productivity can work together in harmony.

What is Ethylene Oxide? Ethylene Oxide or EtO is a flammable, colorless gas with a sweet odor. It’s used as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of ethylene glycol and also used as a sterilizing agent and fumigating agent. 

In the United States, Ethylene Oxide is typically a “tight-fill” (closed-loop) loading operation and is loaded into rail cars via chemical hoses or 3” stainless steel loading arms. Ethylene Oxide, if not handled properly can cause serious injuries and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required. Additionally, because operators are on top of the vehicles during the loading process, fall prevention is essential, not only for safety but increases throughput.

Ethylene Oxide is typically shipped in DOT-105J insulated tank cars with safety valves that meet the DOT specification for the transportation of Ethylene Oxide and other similar commodities. The rails cars themselves are ~ 9′ outside diameter with an overall length of ~45’ to 60′, with a 6’ x 6’ center opening or off-set opening crash box