Inflammable material carrying vehicles

In summary, special rubber tires and metallic ropes are used in vehicles to prevent sparks caused by electrostatic charges that can result in fires. These conductive elements provide a path for the charges to be drained, making it safer when refueling.
  • #1
phymathlover
11
0
Special rubber tires are made slightly conducting, in aircrafts, to enable them to pass on charge (produced by friction) to the ground, as too much charge may result in a spark and hence cause a fire. This is apparently the same reason why some vehicles usually have metallic ropes touching the ground during motion especially when they carry inflammable materials. But I don't get how exactly the charge causes the spark.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Sparks are what you see when there is an air breakdown due to the strength of the electrostatic field (volts/meter) between two objects.

Providing a conductive path (drag chains, conductive tires, etc) allows the electrostatic charges to be drained ... thus the vehicle should not build up a static charge strong enough to spark. This makes it safer when refueling.
 

1. What are inflammable material carrying vehicles?

Inflammable material carrying vehicles are specialized vehicles designed to transport materials that are highly flammable or explosive. These vehicles are equipped with safety features such as fire suppression systems and explosion-proof containers to prevent accidents.

2. What types of materials are considered inflammable?

Inflammable materials include substances such as gasoline, propane, and other flammable liquids, gases, and solids. These materials can easily catch fire and cause explosions if not handled properly.

3. What safety measures are in place for these vehicles?

Inflammable material carrying vehicles are subject to strict safety regulations to ensure the safe transport of hazardous materials. These measures include proper labeling, training for drivers, regular maintenance of the vehicle, and following specific routes to avoid heavily populated areas.

4. What are the risks associated with these vehicles?

The main risk associated with inflammable material carrying vehicles is the potential for fire or explosion. If an accident occurs, it can result in serious injuries, loss of life, and damage to property. These risks can be mitigated by following proper safety protocols and regulations.

5. How are these vehicles monitored and regulated?

Inflammable material carrying vehicles are closely monitored and regulated by various government agencies, such as the Department of Transportation and the Environmental Protection Agency. These agencies have strict guidelines for the transportation of hazardous materials and conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.

Similar threads

Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
8K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
21
Views
853
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
10
Views
9K
  • General Engineering
Replies
9
Views
5K
Replies
9
Views
8K
Back
Top