Although no two Methyl isocyanate 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 Methyl Isocyanate? Methyl isocyanate or MIC is a flammable, colorless liquid with a strong odor. It’s used in the production of pesticides, polyurethane foam, and plastics. It’s typically transported and handled in a liquid state and is highly flammable and explosive. 

In the United States, MIC is typically a “tight-fill” (closed-loop) loading operation and is loaded into rail cars via chemical hoses or 3” stainless steel loading arms. Methyl isocyanate, 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.

Methyl isocyanate is typically shipped in DOT-115 insulated tank cars with safety valves that meet the DOT specification for the transportation of MIC 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

Trailers are top unloaded. An extension pipe with two valves is flanged to the top of the trailer. One valve is located at the top, and the other is at the end of the pipe on the bottom for easy access. Trailers should arrive on-site with blind flanges.

All trailers must be equipped with pressure relief valves; and trailers with bottom outlets must be equipped with remote-controlled stop valves.  Tank truck (un)loading procedures are similar to railcar applications with the trailers meeting established DOT requirements for hauling MMA or similar cargo.  Approved DOT trailers include MC 300 thru MC 312, MC 330, and MC 331.