Guidelines for Data Collection and Analysis of Railroad Tank Car Interior Coating/Lining Condition

This AMPP standard is specifically targeted for use by tank car owners, operators, and repairers who are seeking guidance in complying with federal regulations regarding interior coating/lining condition data collection and analysis. It should be noted that issues similar to those discussed here may arise with other bulk liquid transportation containers, and this document may find applicability in those areas as well.

This standard was reviewed by SC 17 and deemed to have continuing relevance for the rail industry, hence it is being reaffirmed.

The Association of American Railroads (AAR)⁽²⁾ standard AAR M-1002 Appendix L defines “corrosive” and gives some general guidance regarding development and length of coating/lining inspection/maintenance intervals.² NACE Publication 43108 lists inspection intervals typically used by shippers of these chemicals for various interior coating and lining types.³ How the coating/lining condition is evaluated, and what actions are taken are the purview of the coating/ lining owner (as distinguished from and not necessarily the same as the tank car owner), and defined as the party re-sponsible for bearing the cost of the maintenance of the lining or coating.³

With reference to rubber and other sheet linings: Although this standard is intended primarily for spray coatings, the concepts presented can be applied to sheet linings as well. However, details for the assessment of sheet lining conditions are not specifically included in this standard.