As the world continues to demand both resources and greater environmental protection standards, tanker construction has evolved rapidly to meet the strictest of build standards which meet International Maritime Organization, Flag State and Class Society requirements.

VARIOUS MODERN BUILD FEATURES INCLUDE:

Double Hulling

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The implementation of double-hull construction using special shipbuilding grade steel offers increased environmental protection and better protection against breaches during collisions and grounding. Further, tankers have segregated cargo tanks, so if a breach does occur, the potential leak is limited to the product within the affected cargo tank.

High Quality Corrosion Control Methods

Tankers are required to be treated with paint and cathodic protection on the hull. As well, cargo tanks are typically coated top and bottom and are regularly inspected. Ballast tanks and spaces adjacent to cargo tanks are fully coated with high-quality epoxy paints and inspected regularly. These treatments and regular inspections ensure the ships and cargo tanks are protected against corrosion.

Non-Explosive Conditions

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Cargo tanks are maintained in an inert condition (oxygen content less than 5 per cent volume), which removes any danger of fire or explosion in the tank.

Inspections

Tankers are the most scrutinized vessels in the shipping industry. The international tanker inspection regime includes both mandatory regulatory inspections as well as regular inspections by private customers like Trans Mountain who are all united in their efforts to ensure the safety of marine transportation of oil cargoes.

Greater Agility

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Modern tankers are fitted with high-powered engines and large-sized rudders, which make them more manoeuvrable. The main engine of an Aframax tanker is of approximately 20,000 bhp (brake horsepower) capacity.

Redundant Generators

All tankers have back-up power generators for electricity (typically 750 kW x 3). Just one should be sufficient to power the needs of the vessel in the event of a power interruptio

Navigation Instruments

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All tankers are now expected to have two radar systems in working order — one of which must be a specialized collision-avoidance radar. Additionally, ships are equipped with an AIS (Automatic Identification System) which broadcasts ships coordinates and other information for use by traffic services and other vessels to help avoid collision. 

Tankers carry sophisticated navigation aids mandated by International Maritime Organization and Canada Shipping Act including certified charts, position monitoring and anti-collision devices such as precise GPS, redundant compasses, echo sounder to measure depth of water, speed log, among other devices.

The expansion at the Westridge Marine Terminal is based on the loading of Aframax tankers, the same tankers currently being loaded at Westridge. Find out more.