In the heart of El Dorado, Kansas, we recently completed a unique project that showcases our products and consulting and installation services. This 3-spot railcar unloading terminal project was designed for a client specializing in producing petroleum performance-enhancing products. The client’s expertise lies in providing high-quality automotive maintenance services, enhancing the performance and longevity of various vehicle systems.
Project Overview The core of this project was the installation of three SafeRack tracking gangways, each equipped with a pivoting safety cage. These track-mounted gangways move horizontally to position each gangway to align over the railcar’s crash box, eliminating time-consuming “spotting” or positioning the railcars. This also ensures the safety cage is positioned correctly over the crash box for fall prevention by eliminating hazardous gaps when workers are trying to access top railcar hatches.
A pivotal aspect of the project’s design was the integration of three 20-foot Ultratech railcar spill containment track pans and a sump containment trench. Track pans are placed at each unloading spot to capture and channel any accidental spills during the unloading process. The captured material is then directed into a large containment trench or sump, a specially designed low-lying area that safely collects liquids. This system mitigates the environmental impact of potential spills and allows for the recovery of spilled materials, thereby reducing waste and preserving resources. Including this spill containment system is a testament to SafeRack’s dedication to providing both environmentally responsible and economically beneficial solutions, ensuring that our client’s operations are safe, sustainable, and efficient.
The SafeRack team also installed an elevated access structure, incorporating our innovative ErectaRack prefabricated pipe rack system. This addition not only streamlined the installation process but also provided a robust and reliable framework for the entire unloading terminal.
Photos (left to right, top to bottom)
Spill containment track pan | elevated access platform
pipe rack | spill containment sump | track-mounted gangway with pivoting safety cage
Spill Containment and Environmental Considerations A standout feature of this installation is the inclusion of three 20-foot Ultratech railcar spill containment track pans. These track pans play a vital role in environmental protection and product recovery, capturing and channeling any spilled material into a large containment trench or sump. This feature underscores our commitment to environmental safety and operational efficiency.
Project Execution and Impact The installation process was a testament to SafeRack’s efficiency and expertise, taking a mere four days to complete. This swift execution minimized downtime and allowed the client to resume their critical operations promptly. The client, known for their automotive maintenance services, including the manufacturing and distributing professional-use additives, cleaners, specialty lubricants, and precision tools, found immense value in this installation.
The project facilitated the safe and efficient unloading of products and contributed to the client’s overall productivity and profitability. By improving operational efficiency and ensuring environmental safety, SafeRack’s solutions have become integral to the client’s success.
This project in El Dorado, Kansas, is a shining example of SafeRack’s ability to deliver tailored, efficient, and safe industrial solutions. Our expertise in elevated access structures and spill containment systems, combined with our commitment to environmental safety and operational efficiency, positions us as a leader in the industry. We are proud to have contributed to the success of our client, a leader in the automotive maintenance industry, and look forward to future collaborations that drive innovation and excellence.
