Components
July/August 2016
BULKDISTRIBUTOR
11
Fort Vale launches coupler for US transfer market
E
xclusively for the US petroleum transfer
market, Fort Vale is launching a new
version of its Safeload API bottom loading
coupler with an aluminium handle.
The new handle reduces the mechanical effort
required to open and close the poppet during
service, making the Safeload API coupler easy and
comfortable to operate, the UK-based component
manufacturer says.
Ergonomically designed, it has a grab handle to
make it even quicker to manoeuvre the coupler
onto the tank adapter and a non-slip ball for extra
safety during actuation. While the handle is
rugged, it is also lightweight and is an available
option across the entire Safeload API range, which
includes a semi-automatic, a high-pressure and a
manual version.
The Fort Vale Safeload brand is well-respected in
the worldwide fuel terminal industry and has
gained a reputation for its rugged durability,
security and long-term reliability. Safeload API
couplers were the first on the market offering
users a three-year warranty on all metal parts.
Fort Vale believes that the API coupler offers
Hanson
opts for
Tornado
H
anson Cement has upgraded its
bulk powder fleet to increase
carrying capacity.
The company has moved away from
engine driven blowers mounted on the
tanker and opted for tractor-mounted
propshaft-driven Gardner Denver Tornado
high performance screw compressors.
The order for 66 new DAF CF FTP 4050
wheelbase tractor units, all fitted with the
GD Tornado screw compressor, has enabled
Hanson to increase the payload of each
unit by nearly two tons when coupled to
the latest Feldbinder non-tipping cement
tanker. This will have a major impact on
Hanson’s drive to improve efficiency and
reduce CO2 emissions.
The multipurpose GD Tornado was fitted
at the Gardner Denver Cross Lane fitting
facility in Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK, in
line with the required delivery schedule of
4-5 vehicles a week. The Tornado screw
compressor installation is operating at
750rpm truck engine speed, which
provides 700cbm/hour airflow, giving fast
and efficient delivery times of the cement
from the tanker to the customer’s silo.
www.gd-transport.com
terminals simple but effective design benefits
that improve safety and keep maintenance
requirements minimal. Extended triggers cover
over 60 percent of the adapter circumference,
improving connection and reducing wear on the
adapter. A splined spindle offers greater
engagement and strength to the handle and
internal components than traditional pins. Instead
of wavy springs that can be susceptible to
breaking, Safeload has internal compression
springs, which are more durable. The actuating
springs are also internal and are therefore not
vulnerable to damage or corrosion.
“Our customers consistently report their
complete satisfaction with the long-term reliability
of the Safeload coupler,” said Euan Fisher,
Fort Vale’s business development manager for
petroleum products. “One client has over 150
couplers in daily service and has had zero
maintenance issues after seven years of constant
heavy use.”
Scott Reiber, manager of Holly Terminal