Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for purging a vehicle tank compartment to permit access for repair, or maintenance without environmental pollution or hazard to workmen entering the tank. In accordance with the invention an elongated cylindrical storage tank is tilted about its horizontal axis, to form a reservoir for purge water. The tank is connectable as by flexible hoses to fill and drain connections for a tank compartment of a truck, rail car, or other bulk liquid vehicle. Purge water is pumped from the storage tank at a level above the lower tilted end of the elongated tank and vapor displaced from the tank compartment by the water is recovered through a vapor recovery system. Desirably, the compartment is filled until it overflows into the vapor recovery line. Water is returned to the storage tank at a position near the upwardly tilted end.

Abstract: This patent specification discloses a system for reducing pollution of soil, water and air due to spillage of liquid hydrocarbons. Such liquids are transferred by gravity flow from a tank truck compartment to a bulk storage tank through a flexible loading hole. The hose is connected to the bulk storage tank pumping system by a ground level connector which is enclosed within an open top box. The bottom plate of a box is tilted to horizontal and forms a cover for an unloading chamber or pot serving as a pump reservoir between the hose connector and the storage tank pump system. The sidewalls of the box extend above and around the hose connector to catch spills or leaks from the gravity fed loading hose when it is connected to, or disconnected from, the pumping system. A sump pot is arranged at the low end of the tilted bottom plate for recovery of any spilled liquid. The box may accommodate from one to several unloading headers with a single sump pot.