Loading Arm Couplings

Overview

Emergency release couplings (ERC) are specifically designed for use on loading arms to reduce the effects of major product spillage in the event of a road or rail towaway.

ERC breakaway couplings are passive devices located on loading arms that are activated when a tanker driver drives off while still connected to the terminal. In this scenario, the coupling will separate and shut off the flow from both the tanker and terminal.

Alpha Process Controls International has over 30 years’ experience in the design, manufacture and supply of ERC breakaway couplings.

How it Works

The ERC breakaway coupling is normally flanged onto the loading arm pipe-work, allowing free flow of product in both directions. A simple pull cable, which is shorter than the loading arm maximum working envelope, is attached the collar release mechanism.

In a driveaway incident, the pull cable comes into tension before the loading arm locks up, resulting in the shear pin breaking which allows the collar to be released.

The collar falls away and each half of the coupling seals immediately, preventing major spillage of products.

Benefits

Reliable operation

The simple design of the coupling ensures reliable operation even in the most demanding operations.

Positive shut off

Unidirectional valve motion without complex mechanisms

Proven design

Over 30 years’ field experience.

Activation

Range of activation options.

Bespoke

Flanges are integrally cast and can be finished to customer requirements. There are no pressure-containing welds in the construction.

Range of applications

Supplied to major oil, gas and petrochemical companies throughout the world.

Rigorously tested

Nitrogen gas testing for each individual coupling.

Obtainable records

Impeccable records retention to ensure correct spares are supplied when required.

Product trials

Numerous actual product trials at customer sites have over the years proved beyond doubt the effectiveness of the APC couplings compared to other designs.