Although no two Xylene Loading solutions will be identical, the product itself determines much of the critical design criteria that will ensure that optimum safety and productivity can work together in harmony.

What is Xylene? Xylene is any one of three isomers of dimethyl benzene, or a combination thereof. With the formula (CH₃)₂C₆H₄, each of the three compounds has a central benzene ring with two methyl groups attached at substituents. They are all colorless, flammable liquids, some of which are of great industrial value. The mixture is referred to as both xylene and, more precisely, xylenes.

In the United States, Xylene is typically a “tight-fill” (closed-loop) loading operation and is loaded into rail cars via chemical hoses or 3” carbon steel loading arms. Xylene, if not handled properly can be fatal and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required. Additionally, because operators are on top of the vehicles during the loading process, fall prevention is essential, not only for safety but increases throughput.

Xylene is typically shipped in non-insulated tank cars with 6’x 6’ or 8’ x 8’ center opening crash boxes.