Tanker-Truck Electronic Grounding System Provides Three-Parameter Failsafe Verification

Before allowing the loading or unloading of a tanker truck to proceed, a new-generation failsafe static grounding system from Newson Gale Inc. provides confirmation of connection to a static dissipative ground point, and continuous electronic verification of a <10 ohm connection to that point, plus specific tanker truck recognition. The face of the unit features a cluster of bright pulsing green LEDs which provide operators with assurance that a positive ground connection remains in effect throughout the entire transfer operation.This new Earth-Rite® RTR™ Static Grounding System is the tanker-truck specific system for the transfer, processing and handling of various flammable or combustible liquids, gasses and powders. For general applications including drums, totes, mobile tanks and railcars the similar Newson-Gale Inc. Earth-Rite PLUS™ system provides the same approvals and characteristics, without the tank-truck recognition factor.The electronics of the system are protected in a harsh-environment NEMA 4X corrosion-resistant XP enclosure. It provides a certified operating temperature range of -25°C to +50°C (-13°F to +131°F) and significant protection against dust, liquids and weather damage, while allowing the system to be installed without any additional protection or modification.As an additional feature, the RTR grounding system includes a pair of voltage-free “dry” contacts that energize only when the resistance to the verified ground connection is measured to be 10 ohms or less, allowing a user to demonstrate compliance with the recommendations of globally recognized standards for static control, including NFPA 77, API RP 2003 and Cenelec CLC/TR:50404. The Earth-Rite RTR has North American approval from CSA/US for installation and use in all common hazardous areas, including the very highest gas group approvals: Class I, Div. 1, Groups A, B, C, D; Class II, Div. 1, Groups E, F, G; Class III. Available power units include 110/120 VAC or 220/240 VAC and either 12 or 24 VDC. The units have also been assessed for functional safety and have received an SIL. 2 rating according to IEC 61508 and equivalent ATEX and IECEX approved versions are also available.