CDL Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)Bulk Tanks and Other ContainersMedium
A driver is preparing to transport a hazardous material in a portable tank. The material is a liquid with a specific gravity of 1.2 and a maximum filling density of 90%. If the tank has a water capacity of 10,000 gallons, what is the maximum weight of this hazardous material that can be loaded?
- A120,000 pounds
- B72,000 pounds
- C108,000 pounds
- D90,000 pounds
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 90,000 pounds
The maximum weight is calculated using the water capacity, specific gravity, and maximum filling density. Water weighs approximately 8.34 pounds per gallon. So, 10,000 gallons * 8.34 lbs/gallon * 1.2 (specific gravity) * 0.90 (filling density) = 90,072 pounds, which rounds to 90,000 pounds.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This calculation represents the weight of water the tank could hold, not the hazardous material with filling density applied.
- B. This calculation incorrectly applies the specific gravity or filling density.
- C. This calculation likely omits the filling density or misapplies other factors.
Portable Tank Filling Limits
The maximum amount of hazardous material that can be loaded into a portable tank, determined by the tank's water capacity, the material's specific gravity, and its maximum filling density.
- Ensures adequate outage/ullage for expansion.
- Prevents over-pressurization due to temperature changes.
- Based on material properties and tank design.
Memory trick: Fill 'er up, but not too far, specific gravity sets the bar!