Vapour Recovery Connection

Gas Pendulum Connection/Gas Pendulum Line/Vapour Recovery Connection (VRU-Connection)

Definition:

A vapour recovery connection is a technical device on tank vehicles and stationary tank systems that returns the resulting vapors in a controlled manner when loading and unloading fuels.
In this case, the displaced fuel-air mixture (VOC-containing vapors) is returned to the storage tank or the source vehicle via a closed line. This prevents emissions of volatile organic compounds, increases safety and reduces environmental impact.

Vapour recovery systems are used in particular when handling gasoline, diesel and other highly volatile products and are required by law.

Regulatory background & environmental protection
Vapour recovery systems meet legal requirements for reducing emissions (VOC Directive in the EU). They protect personnel, the environment and plants from explosive steam-air mixtures and are mandatory in refineries, tank farms and gas stations.

Phases of the gas pendulum
A distinction is made between vapour recovery level I (tank farm ↔ tank truck) and level II (tank truck ↔ filling station) in order to control vapors along the entire supply chain.

_{Sources/further links:}

_{EU VOC Directive 94/63/EC — Stage I Vapour Recovery: Directive - 94/63 - EN - EUR-Lex}

_{EU Directive 2009/126/EC — Stage II Vapour Recovery at Fuel Stations: Directive - 2009/126 - EN - EUR-Lex}

_{U.S. EPA — Vapour Recovery System Overview: Vapor Recovery Units | US EPA}

Challenges when using gas shuttle connections:

Missing or incorrect port compatibility & security risks
If drivers do not know what type of vapour recovery connection, coupling, or valve system is required at the site, they can cause misconnections, delays, or dangerous steam leaks.
_{Sources/further links:}

_{ECTA Safety Guidance — loading & unloadinghazardous liquids: Guidelines | ECTA- European Chemical Transport Association}

Unclear instructions for factory and terminal access
On large plants, gas flow points and processes are often complex. Unclear signs or lack of process information lead to uncertainties, queries or incorrect operation.
_{Sources/further links:}

_{CEFIC/ECTA — Safeloading & Unloading Guidelines: Best practice guidelines for safe working at height-in the logistics supply chain - cefic}

Loady's solution:

Clear information on gas shuttle requirements & connection requirements
Loady provides site-specific information on whether gas oscillation is mandatory and which type of connection or coupling is required. Drivers receive this information before arrival — in several languages.

Precise location navigation & process information
For complex plants, exact GPS coordinates of the charging points, safety instructions and visual work steps can be stored so that drivers know exactly where to connect and how the process is running.