A Truck Loading Arm is a mechanical pipe system designed to safely transfer liquids or gases between a stationary loading facility and a mobile tanker truck. These arms are commonly articulated and equipped with swivel joints that allow flexible movement to align with the tanker’s fill points without the need for hoses. They provide a secure, leak-tight connection, enhancing operational efficiency and minimizing environmental and safety risks.
Loading arms can be mounted either top-loading (from above the tank) or bottom-loading (from the side or underneath), depending on the terminal’s infrastructure and safety standards.
Safe Fluid Transfer: Reduces risks of spills, leaks, and accidents.
High Flow Efficiency: Enables rapid loading/unloading with minimal pressure loss.
Ergonomic Operation: Counterbalance systems or spring-loaded arms ease handling.
Reduced Maintenance: Durable swivel joints and low-wear design ensure longevity.
Adaptability: Suitable for various fluids—fuel, chemicals, LPG, food-grade products.
Compliance: Meets standards such as API RP 1004, OSHA, and local safety codes.
Top Loading Arm – For access through top-mounted tanker hatches
Bottom Loading Arm – For safer, closed-system ground-level connections
Vapor Recovery Arm – For capturing displaced vapors during filling
LPG/Cryogenic Loading Arm – Special design for low-temperature liquefied gases
Oil & Gas (fuel terminals, refineries)
Petrochemical & Chemical processing
Food and Beverage (e.g., edible oils)
Agriculture (fertilizers, molasses)
Water and Waste Treatment
| Parameter | Specification / Options |
|---|---|
| Material | Carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, PTFE-lined for corrosive service |
| Pipe Diameter | 2” to 6” (standard); customizable based on flow rate |
| Working Pressure | Up to 10–25 bar (145–360 psi) depending on product |
| Temperature Range | -50°C to +200°C (product and seal dependent) |
| Swivel Joints | Ball-bearing, flanged or threaded, PTFE or Viton seals |
| End Connection | API coupler, dry break coupler, or flanged connection |
| Accessories | Breakaway couplings, vapor recovery lines, grounding cables |
| Compliance | API RP 1004, EN 13922, ISO 9001, ATEX (for explosive environments) |
Site Assessment: Analyze truck access and alignment points.
Mounting: Fix arm base to a support pedestal or loading rack.
Connection: Align arm with the truck fill point using swivel joints.
Accessories: Install safety interlocks, vapor recovery, and grounding devices.
Testing: Conduct pressure and leak tests before operational use.
Routine Inspection: Check swivel joints, seals, and support components.
Lubrication: Apply to pivot points and bearings per manufacturer guidance.
Seal Replacement: Replace worn gaskets and O-rings as needed.
Function Testing: Verify arm movement, connection integrity, and drain systems.
Leak Prevention: Minimizes spills and VOC emissions during transfer.
Vapor Recovery Options: Compatible with vapor return systems to reduce air pollution.
Safer Chemical Handling: Closed-loop systems reduce human exposure and emissions.
Durable Materials: Long service life with corrosion-resistant construction.
Reduced Resource Use: No disposable hoses or frequent replacements.
Modular Design: Replaceable parts extend the life of the system.
Improper Maintenance may result in joint leaks or VOC release.
Legacy Arms without vapor recovery may not meet current environmental standards.
