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Feds propose two-year phase-out of DOT 111 tank cars, additional hazmat regulations
From the FRA press release. Enhanced braking. Proposes to require all HHFTs to be equipped with alternative brake signal propagation systems. Depending on the outcome of the tank car standard proposal and implementation timing, all HHFTs would be operated with either electronic controlled pneumatic brakes (ECP), a two-way end of train device (EOT), or distributed power (DP).
60 day comment period starts today and then the rule can be implemented. Typical Fed procedure.
“enhanced braking”? What, specifically?
We should not need 10 years to implement the rules. If Americans work together like they did in WWII, meeting a 2-year target date should be achieved.
Took long enough to come up with a regulation?
The 2 year ban on older 111 tank cars would not probably go into effect until sometime after the 60 day comment period. The 2015 date would be that any new cars built must meet the new standard.
Enhanced rollover protection presumably means better protection for topside valves and fittings.
Their timeline is reflective of their lack of knowledge about the industry. There’s no way they can get what they want in two years, ten years is more practical to accomplish what they want. But, somewhere along the way, they’ll shove another impossible mandate on the industry’s back.
does the 2 year rule start now? the mandate to build stronger replacement tank cars only takes effect in Oct. 2015. That leaves less than one year until the 111s are outlawed.
If the new tank trains were used in captive service they could use electrically controlled air brakes. this system allows all brakes in the train to activate at the same time. I believe the engines would have to be in dedicated service with the tank cars.
Thank you Don…had the same question. Plus what is improved rollover protection? Fish belly tank cars?