Transporting large pressure vessels by road
Transporting the largest pressure vessels by road is a complex task, as regulations on safety, size, weight, and dimensions need to be kept. With tight corners, bridges and tunnels being common obstacles on UK roads, careful route planning, and co-operation with local transport authorities and haulage companies is needed to ensure a safe and legally compliant transit. In this post, we explore some of the most common logistical challenges faced when transporting the largest pressure vessels by road, that LTI Metaltech must consider when working with our logistics company and supply chain partners to deliver pressure vessels of all sizes to our customers.
Challenges faced in road transportation
Pressure vessels often need to be transported from place to place for medical, chemical processing, oil and gas, and other sectors. LTI Metaltech manufactures and transports pressure vessels in high volume to our clients with the help of our own logistics company and our supply chain. With each road journey having its own unique set of challenges and obstacles. Here are some of the most common challenges faced when transporting these large containers.
Size and weight restrictions
Weight and size limits on British roads tend to be made for lorries and shipping containers. Large pressure vessels often exceed these limits by a long way. In these cases, special permits need to be applied for, as well as route planning. Different county councils will have variations in their rules, so communicating with the authorities in each area the route passes through in advance of the journey is vital. The rules are there to avoid damage to roads and overhead infrastructure, as well as the safety of the general public.
Traffic and congestion
Moving the largest pressure vessels through busy routes can cause disruption to the flow of traffic and cause major inconvenience to other road users. For this reason, itβs important to carefully schedule journeys to avoid peak traffic times. Often, these journeys are planned for late at night, and before the morning rush hour traffic when the fewest cars are on the road.
Health and safety
There are many safety procedures that must be followed at all stages of pressure vessel transportation β this is to protect the transport crew, the vehicle, the vessel itself, and other vehicles and drivers on the road. We use specialised equipment, escort vehicles, signs and safety barriers to minimise risk of accidents, and prevent complications that could put people, vehicles and infrastructure at risk of costly damage.
Loading and unloading
Placing high volume pressure vessels onto transport vehicles and unloading them requires trained staff members, high-tech safety equipment, and following strict safety and handling procedures at all times. The vessel must be securely attached to the vehicle to eliminate any risk of it falling off or becoming damaged en route.
Compliance
In advance of the journey, it is required to apply for and obtain a variety of regulations, licenses, approvals and permits from the relevant transport authorities. Staff may need additional training and equipment; different regulatory requirements will need to be followed carefully. Neglecting any of these areas can incur penalties and time-consuming legal problems.
Made by LTI Metaltech
Here at LTI, we manufacture pressure vessels in high volume for medical use. Our logistics company handles transportation to our main client, and our supply chain delivers large pressure vessels to any customers that need it. All the companies we work with have the required procedures and permits to collaborate with trusted haulage companies across the UK and overseas.
To find out more about our products and how LTI works, click here.