Fuel Tank Washing Jig

A new range of Caterpillar articulated trucks necessitated the design of new support jigs in their Fuel and Hydraulic tank-washing facility. Critically, it was important to reduce the time taken to load and wash the tanks in the production process. A support jig which interfaced with the existing facility was developed, reducing the jig count by a third.

As the tanks can weigh in excess of 500kg and the washing process uses hot caustic solutions, stainless steel spaceframes were specified. Quick release clamps were designed to improve turn-around time and reduce operator fatigue. In addition, the fixing points on the jig were designed to be removable to reduce maintenance time and improve longevity.

CAD tools were utilised to determine the Centre of Gravity when the tanks were loaded and part-filled with cleaning solution. This allowed the holding jigs to be designed to optimum stress on the existing washing plant. The design was delivered on time, within budget and to a very demanding timescale.