SIST EN 13315:2002

Overview

SIST EN 13315:2002 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies requirements for gravity discharge couplers used in tanks transporting dangerous goods. This standard focuses on the service equipment for tanks, particularly the gravity discharge coupler designed for liquid petroleum products and other Class 3 flammable liquids under ADR regulations, with a vapor pressure not exceeding 110 kPa at 50°C. It ensures the couplers meet critical dimensions, performance criteria, and safety tests to facilitate reliable and leak-free transfer of hazardous liquids during transportation.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  Covers gravity discharge couplers intended for use with flammable liquids without toxic or corrosive subclassifications, ensuring compatibility with bottom loading and unloading systems as per EN 13083.

• Design Requirements

  • Coupler must securely mate and clamp with bottom loading adaptors.
  • Prevents leakage during operation.
  • Supports working pressure of at least 100 kPa.
  • Suitable for temperatures between -20°C to 50°C (extendable to -40°C or 70°C if required).
  • Physical dimensions maintain a minimum spacing of 250 mm for adjacent couplers.
  • Electrical resistance must be controlled to avoid static discharge risks.

• Optional Features

  • Visual indicators like sight glass or flow indicators.
  • Adaptor actuation with position indicators.
  • Interlock systems to prevent unsafe operations.

• Testing Protocols

  • Production tests include shell tightness and operability tests following prEN 12266-1 and 12266-2 standards.
  • Type tests on multiple samples verify mechanical strength and performance under design temperatures.
  • Tests ensure compliance with safety and functional specifications.

• Marking and Documentation

  • Permanent identification on each coupler including standard reference, manufacturer details, serial number, MAWP, and special operating conditions.
  • Detailed installation, operation, and maintenance instructions provided to ensure proper handling.

Applications

SIST EN 13315:2002 gravity discharge couplers are essential components in the safe and efficient road transport of dangerous goods, particularly flammable liquids such as liquid petroleum products. These couplers are used in:

• Tank trucks and trailers transporting hazardous liquids under ADR-class 3 regulations.
• Bottom loading and unloading systems facilitating gravity-driven discharge.
• Fuel delivery and bulk liquid transfer operations requiring leak-proof and secure hose connections.
• Industrial environments where compliance with safety standards and operational reliability is critical to prevent spills and accidents.

By adhering to SIST EN 13315:2002, manufacturers and operators ensure that transport and transfer of dangerous goods maintain rigorous safety, reduce environmental risk, and meet European market and regulatory demands.

Related Standards

SIST EN 13315:2002 forms part of a comprehensive standards framework for tanks and service equipment for transporting dangerous goods:

• EN 13081 – Service equipment for tanks: Vapour collection adaptor and coupler.
• EN 13082 – Vapour transfer valve for dangerous goods tanks.
• EN 13083 – Adaptors for bottom loading and unloading (directly referenced in EN 13315).
• prEN 13308 / prEN 13316 – Non-pressure balanced and pressure balanced footvalves.
• prEN 13314 – Fill hole cover for tanks.

These complementary standards collectively address various aspects of tank design, service connections, and safety features to support the secure transportation of hazardous materials across Europe according to ADR and RID agreements.

Keywords: SIST EN 13315:2002, gravity discharge coupler, dangerous goods tanks, transport safety, Class 3 flammable liquids, bottom loading, service equipment for tanks, ADR standards, industrial couplers, tank truck equipment, European Standard.