Specifications include, but are not limited to: This project has been developed by Clear Roads. Clear Roads is an ongoing pooled fund research project aimed at rigorous testing of winter maintenance materials, equipment and methods for use by highway maintenance crews. Clear Roads will fund and oversee the contract for this project in coordination with MnDOT. Investigators will research the range of liquid chloride storage and pump systems and the best practices for managing those systems. This study will not investigate brine makers, rather, it will include a comprehensive review of the tanks, pumps and plumbing components used in a liquid chloride storage system. Examples of information that Clear Roads would like uncovered include (this is only a list of sample items and not all inclusive): System Installation 1. How to decide tank size. 2. What vehicles/equipment and labor are required for delivery and installation? 3. What are optimal locations to place storage systems (concrete pads, in buildings [inside vs outside])? 4. Are remote inventory monitoring solutions used? Tanks 1. What materials can tanks be made of (e.g., fiberglass)? 2. Are tanks double-walled? 3. What kind and in what configuration are the tank-flange outlets? 4. How can you repurpose tanks? Pumps / Motor 1. Pump capacities. 2. Pump locations. 3. How often to seals and bearings need to be replaced? 4. Piping, hose, and connection recommendations. Product 1. Any availability issues? 2. Any reactions between or compatibility issues of different liquids? 3. What products or additives are used? 4. Any issues with biochemical or chemical oxygen demand levels? Maintenance and Lifecycle 1. Annual maintenance routine. 2. Tank access for cleaning. 3. Does storing in the shade prolong lifecycle? 4. Any test methods to determine tank condition?
