In continuation of our April 2022 progress update on the Wesfarmers CSBP liquid ammonia loading arms project, here is the final update on how the project was completed.
In December 2021, Wesfarmers CSBP approached Treloar for spare emergency breakaway couplings. That discussion led to the need for new loading arms featuring Treloar’s more modern swivel joints, to prevent leakage and ensure easy manoeuvrability.
The project progressed and in April 2022 we completed fabrication and successful testing of the loading arms, with both the client and our team pleased with the results.
In September 2022, we completed the final assembly, testing and deployment of the new loading arms. The previous arms, supplied by a different supplier, were leaking and difficult to manoeuvre due to balance mechanism failure. Treloar fabricated new arms to address both issues.
Before delivery, all loading arms went through Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) in our workshop. The process involved balancing each arm to ensure it operated effectively, reached the required connection points, and was ergonomic for the operator. This is critical — the primary function of a loading arm is to prevent operator injury from handling heavy hoses.
From a safety perspective, we needed to confirm all seals were working correctly with no atmospheric leakage. These loading arms handle toxic, flammable ammonia gas — any leakage would be disastrous.
With FAT complete and results confirmed, we delivered the loading arms to site. Treloar’s Engineering Manager attended commissioning to ensure everything functioned as required and to address any on-site issues immediately.
One issue was encountered post-installation: the valve fitted to the end of the arm was significantly heavier than the client had advised during design. The gas strut was too stiff as a result. Treloar supplied a retrofit replacement strut and the correct balance was achieved.
With the new arms installed and fully functional, the client is very pleased with the outcome — the arms are light, ergonomic, easy to manoeuvre and safe.
Treloar will follow up with the client at 1, 3 and 5-year intervals to confirm everything is operating efficiently. With regular maintenance, the arms are expected to serve for several decades.