Specifications

TM 9-2330-384-14&P
4-68. PURGING TANK.
a.
General Information c. Steam Clean
Purging (Preferred
b.
Draining Tank Method)
d. Chemical Purging (Alternate Method)
Materials/Parts:
Pails
Rags
Tools:
(Item 18, Appendix E)
Tool kit, general mechanic’s
Pipe wrench
Steam cleaner
Test Equipment:
Nomenclature
NSN
Combustible
NSN 6665-00-664-4650 or
gas indicator set NSN 6665-00-292-9945
References:
FM 10-20
TB 43-0212
Personnel Required: Three
General Safety Instructions:
DO NOT perform draining or purging
operations in an electrical storm.
Connect bonding and grounding connec-
tion before beginning draining and purging
operations. Maintain bonding and ground-
ing connection until after all draining and
purging is completed.
Keep open flames or other sources of
ignition away from area where draining or
purging operation is in progress. Sufficient
fire extinguishers MUST be present and
manned.
General Safety Instructions (Con't):
When working inside tank, always provide
adequate air ventilation at the manhole
opening with air directed into compartment
where work is being performed.
NEVER work alone inside a tank: a second
person must be stationed at the manhole
opening. The person inside the tank must
have a safety line and harness on in case of
emergency for rescue operations.
In an emergency, personnel entering tank
which is not vapor free must wear an
attached lifeline and protective respiratory
equipment. Personnel MUST NOT enter a
tank which is in the explosive range.
Give IMMEDIATE medical attention to per-
sonnel exposed to hydrocarbon or toxic va-
pors.
Personnel engaged in draining and purging
operations must wear prescribed clothing.
Before climbing onto semitrailer, grasp
static ground wire to discharge all static
from body.
If semitrailer is left overnight after purging,
retest with combustible gas indicator set to
ensure a SAFE reading.
Compressed air used for drying tubing
must not exceed 30 psi (207 kPa).
a. GENERAL INFORMATION
(1) Removal of combustible vapors and liquids requires a coordinated effort of properly skilled
safety and maintenance personnel. This maintenance procedure is to be performed by
authorized unit or direct support personnel with an MOS of 77F or equivalent.
(2) A thorough reading of FM 10-20 and TB 43-0212 is essential for understanding proper draining
and purging methods.
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