Additives are chemicals that are added to fuels, oils, lubricants, plastics and other products to improve their performance. These additives can increase oxidation resistance, improve viscosity, reduce corrosivity, and ensure optimal performance of the final product.
The most common types of additives are:
- Fuel octane boosting additives - used to improve the detonation resistance of fuels.
- Depressor additives - improve fuel flowability at low temperatures;
- Anticorrosive additives - protect metal surfaces from destruction;
- Viscosity modifiers - regulate oil flowability at different temperatures.
Role of additives in industry
Additives play an important role in various industries. They are used to:
- Improving the performance characteristics of fuels and oils;
- Extend the life of engines and machinery;
- Improving the environmental performance of fuel combustion;
- Reducing wear and tear on parts and components;
- Improving the stability of chemical products.
Chemical characteristics of additives
Additives may contain organic and inorganic compounds, including organometallic complexes, polymers, solvents and antioxidants. Many are highly volatile, flammable and require strict transportation regulations.
Some additives require protection from moisture, others from overheating, as high temperatures can change their chemical composition. Therefore, transportation of additives by tank trucks requires strict observance of storage and transportation conditions.
Requirements for transportation of additives by tank trucks
Transportation of additives by tank trucks is the optimal solution for transportation of bulk chemicals, especially if they require hermetic sealing and protection from external factors. Basic requirements for the transportation of additives in tank trucks:
- Special washing of the tank truck before loading;
- Use of specialized tank trucks made of stainless steel;
- Observance of temperature regime if necessary;
- Compliance of tank trucks with ADR requirements (International Dangerous Goods Regulations);
- Mandatory certification of vehicle and personnel;
- Control of tanker filling level to prevent fluctuations of liquid during movement;
- Availability of a specialized hose for unloading at least 6 meters long and availability of a pump for unloading additives.
Classification of additives according to ADR
Depending on their chemical composition, additives can fall into different ADR hazard classes:
- Class 3 - flammable liquids (e.g. some fuel additives);
- Class 6.1 - toxic substances (e.g. some viscosity modifiers);
- Class 8 - corrosive substances (e.g. anticorrosive additives with high acidity).
Transportation of additives in drums and transportation requirements
Some types of additives can be shipped in sealed drums, which provides additional protection for transportation in standard tilt trucks or shipping containers. Basic requirements for transportation of additives by truck or in sea containers (drums):
- Use of certified drums made of chemically resistant materials (plastic, stainless steel);
- Secure fixation of the cargo in the body of the vehicle to prevent tipping and leakage;
- Availability of anti-slip mats, which are placed under the pallets;
- Sufficient number of straps to secure the load;
- Adherence to labeling rules and availability of accompanying documentation;
- Control of temperature and humidity during transportation;
- Compliance with packaging and storage rules according to ADR regulations.
Some additives may require additional ventilation to avoid vapor buildup in a confined space. This is especially important when transporting additives in tankers and tilt trucks if the cargo is highly volatile.
Cost of transportation of additives by tank trucks and tilt trucks
The price of additives transportation by tanker and tilt trucks depends on a number of factors:
- Type of additives and their ADR classification;
- Distance and route of transportation;
- The type of vehicle required (tanker or tilt truck);
- The need to comply with the temperature regime;
- Additional services such as forwarding and cargo insurance.
Advantages of additives transportation with SaveProSolutions
Our company Save Pro Solutions has expertise in international chemical logistics, including additive transportation. We offer:
- Transportation of additives by ADR compliant tanker trucks equipped with thermal insulation if required;
- Transportation of additives by trucks (in drums) taking into account safety requirements;
- Full documentary support of the cargo, including customs clearance;
- Guarantee of compliance with all safety standards during transportation of additives;
- Real-time monitoring of the route and condition of the cargo.
Contact us for advice on additives transportation and to place an order for logistics services. We will provide reliable and safe delivery anywhere in Europe and Ukraine!