Abstract: A linkage assembly apparatus is provided for cleaning stubborn and hazardous deposits and residues from the interior surfaces of tankcars. This Linkage assembly is configured to be inserted through a tankcar manway and then properly positioned and operated without human operator intervention. A plurality of hingedly interconnected link members travel upon rollers along an integrated boot-like track guide to position a spray head and attached nozzle-pair in close proximity to the various surfaces being cleaned using high-pressure water. The arrangement of each of the plurality of hingedly interconnected link members is designed to limit bending thereof in only one direction.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and rinsing the interior surfaces of a railway tank car with a single, high-pressure fluid spray. The apparatus is inserted into a tank car through its manway and secured using a lockdown assembly. The swivel assembly includes a swivel shaft which is disposed longitudinally through a swivel housing and is interconnected with a rotor motor and with a hollow spindle assembly. A fluid channel communicates the fluid to the spindle assembly where the fluid is sprayed through a single nozzle onto the interior surfaces of a tank car. Control of fluid spray orbit is accomplished by two perpendicular axes for causing rotation and actuation of the nozzle affixed to the spindle assembly, through the cooperation of an idler gear.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning and rinsing the interior surfaces of a railway tank car with a single, high-pressure fluid spray. The apparatus is inserted into a tank car through its manway and secured using a lockdown assembly. A swivel assembly includes a swivel shaft which is disposed longitudinally through a swivel housing and is interconnected with a rotor motor and with a hollow spindle assembly. A fluid channel communicates the fluid to the spindle assembly where the fluid is sprayed through a single nozzle onto the interior surfaces of a tank car. Control of fluid spray orbit is accomplished by two perpendicular axes for causing rotation and actuation of the nozzle affixed to the spindle assembly, through the cooperation of an idler gear.