Research Pays Off: Enhanced Tank Car Design Improves the Safety of Transporting Crude Oil and Alcohol by Rail

The transport of flammable liquids by rail has increased significantly in recent years as the U.S. has sought greater energy self-sufficiency. Rail transport of petroleum crude oil increased from approximately 9,500 carloads in 2008 to 500,000 in 2014, and rail transport of alcohols not otherwise specified (NOS) increased from 30,000 to 300,000 tank carloads in 2010. Although the rate of rail transport accidents has declined, accident risk and safety continues to be an important issue due to the growth in flammable liquid traffic. This article explores recent research on tank car safety design, as collaboratively carried out by several rail transportation organizations. This research sought to determine how effectively different tank car design features prevent releases, and to identify the optimal combination of tank car design features. Several design features were considered, including: a thicker, more puncture-resistant tank constructed of stronger steel; full-height head shields; robust top-fittings protection; and a thermal protection system encased in a steel jacket.