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Sulfuric Acid Handbook An information source for industrial consumers, handlers, transporters and other users. Delivering MORE than H 2 SO 4 www.norfalco.com Published April 2007

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Page 1: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

S u l f u r i c A c i d H a n d b o o k

An information source for industrial consumers, handlers, transporters and other users.

D e l i v e r i n g M O R E t h a n H2

S O4

w w w . n o r f a l c o . c o m

Published April 2007

Page 2: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

CONTENTS

Introductionpage 1

Quality and facilitiespage 4

The production processpage 6

General properties ofsulfuric acid

(graphs, tables and data)page 8

Transportationpage 19

Storage and handlingpage 24

Safetypage 28

First aid andemergency procedures

page 30

Customer service informationpage 32

© 2007 NorFalco

H2SO4the formula for one of

the world's mostversatile and widely

used industrialchemicals.

Page 3: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

1

NorFalco

This guide is intended as a general overview of the use and handling ofsulfuric acid. The objective is to provide a common reference for generalinformation on the characteristics of sulfuric acid distributed byNorFalco, as well as on the sulfuric acid manufacturing process,transportation options, storage practices, safe handling and emergencymeasures.

* Please note all specifications and technical information are providedfree of charge. This information is intended for guidance only tosupplement, but not replace, owner’s design and safety criteria. Theinformation is intended for use by responsible personnel havingappropriate skills and know-how. The information is believed to bereliable; however no warranty of any kind, express or implied, is madewith respect to the data or the references. Information provided may notbe all inclusive, and suitability to local laws, codes and practices shouldbe confirmed by the user of this information. The use of any part of thisdocument is at the user’s sole risk and Norfalco can make no guarantee ofresults and assume no responsibility or liability for results obtained ordamages incurred from use of the data in whole or in part.

IntroductionA powerful, virtually irreplaceable constituent of countless industrial processes, sulfuric acid isproduced, transported and used safely by trained personnel around the world. Global productionexceeds 190 million tons annually.

NorFalco is North America’s largest merchant marketer of sulfuric acid, responsible for the marketingand distribution of over 2.3 million tons of sulfuric acid per year. Through parent company Xstrata,NorFalco has exclusive access to sulfuric acid production from five major North American productionfacilities. These five facilities combined with NorFalco’s fully integrated network of trains, trucks,terminals and ships help ensure excellent supply reliability to a diverse range of consumers.

NorFalco is a company built from the combined histories of Noranda Inc., Falconbridge Ltd. andXstrata. In 2005, NorFalco’s parent company Noranda amalgamated with Falconbridge under theFalconbridge banner. In 2006, Falconbridge was acquired by Xstrata to form one of the world’s largestmining and metals companies. Xstrata’s global sulfuric acid production exceeds 5 million tons annually.

Sulfuric acid’s varied properties of acidity,reactivity and corrosiveness, its sulfur content andits affinity for water play essential roles in themanufacture of products such as fertilizers, paintsand pigments, explosives, pulp and paper, plastics,detergents, textiles, batteries and a variety ofspecialty chemicals. It is also used to produceethanol fuels, process petrochemicals and mineralores, refine metals and for water treatment. Itsunique properties continue to be useful in theongoing development of new products andprocesses.

NorFalco

Page 4: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

The importance of sulfuric acid in such a widevariety of industries and the huge volumestransported every day demonstrate the need foruniversal commitment on the part of producers,transporters, and consumers, to the safe,responsible handling of the product. Awarenessof the product’s characteristics, a well trainedworkforce and established precautionary,procedural and emergency measures are allessential. Much of the information in this guidefocuses on these needs.

Being Responsible

Through our involvement with the CanadianChemical Producers Association and theNational Association of Chemical Distributors,NorFalco fully supports the guiding principles,ethics and codes of practice of ResponsibleCare® and the Responsible Distribution ProcessSM (RDP). This commitment ensuresresponsible management of chemicals byminimizing risk to employees, customers, thepublic and the environment. Responsible Care®

and Responsible Distribution practices are inevidence throughout every phase of NorFalco’s

distribution system, where strict safeguards andestablished practices are in place. Compliancewith Responsible Care® and The ResponsibleDistribution Process is re-verified every threeyears by advocates and chemical industryexperts.

Throughout its history NorFalco has benefited inhaving access to the significant resources of itsparent companies. NorFalco is backed bydecades of experience. As a result of thissynergy, product safety and quality needs arequickly addressed by customer service andtechnical support staff based in both the U.S. andCanada with the support of our manufacturingplants as well as a major technology center basedin Sudbury, Ontario. In the event of a need foremergency support, NorFalco’s Sulfuric AcidEmergency Response network is one of thelargest in North America.

2

Page 5: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

3

NorFalco

The vast quantities of sulfuric acidtransported every day requires auniversal commitment to the safe,

responsible handling of the product.

Delivering More than H2SO4

To be our customers’ supplier of choice, NorFalcomust deliver much more than just sulfuric acid.We must deliver solutions that make it easier toorder, receive and use our product.

At NorFalco, Delivering More Than H2SO4

means:• Reliable and secure supply from multiple plants• Safe deliveries and Responsible Care®

• 24/7 Customer Service support• Regional Safety Seminars• Technical support and training delivered to your

site• Consistent quality• Multi-modal logistics system• Extensive terminal network• Experienced sales force• Working directly with the producer• A reliable acid supplier for over 25 years

All NorFalco’s More Than H2SO4 support andservices are offered free of charge as part ofNorFalco’s supply commitment to our customers.For more information on what is available

consult our web site at www.norfalco.com orcontact your NorFalco commercial

representative.

Page 6: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

• Sales service

• Product information

• Engineering and technical assistance

• Shipment method advice

• Unloading/Storage/Handling advice

• Safety advice

• Emergency response

• Product performance evaluation

• Quality control reporting

• Market information

PlantsRail-to-Truck TerminalsStorage Tank TerminalsLoaded Car Storage

NorFalco, in closecooperation with

production sites andtechnology staff,

offers a full range ofclient services.

NorFalcoplants andterminals

●●●

●●

●●

●●

Belledune, NB

Valleyfield, PQ

Rouyn Noranda, PQTimmins, ON

Sudbury, ON

Thunder Bay, ON

Sioux City, IA Chicago, IL

Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Clinton, IA

Kansas City, KS

E. St.Louis, MO

Memphis, TN

Greenwood, MS

Chattanooga, TN

Augusta, GA

Johnston City, TN

Louisville, KY

Indianapolis, IN

Pittsburgh, PAToledo, OH Newark, NJ

Philadelphia, PA

Richmond, VA

● Baltimore, MD

4

●Searsport, ME●Menasha, WI

Page 7: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

NorFalco

Product Quality

Product quality is a top priority, and NorFalcoregularly supplies customer requirements foracid to meet the following industry standards(and others):

• FDA Food Chemical Codex

• NSF 60 Certification for Drinking Water,(CEZ, Valleyfield plant and Elizabeth, NJterminal)

• Department of Defense Electrolyte Class 1

• Kosher Compliance

NorFalco has a dedicated Quality AssuranceManager on staff to ensure quality control andcompliance with customer and industryspecifications. Each plant has its own analyticallaboratory for quality monitoring and thepreparation of certificates of analysis for acidshipments. All plants use equipment specificallytailored to sulfuric acid analytical methods suchas ultrasonic concentration measurement,colorimetric determination, atomic absorptionanalysis, inductively coupled plasma analysis,and wet chemical analytical procedures.

Production Facilities

NorFalco is the exclusive marketer of productionfrom five plants owned and operated by parentcompany Xstrata and the Noranda Income FundLimited Partnership (CEZinc). This supplyposition is complemented by sources in thecentral and southern United States. NorFalco’smulti-modal distribution network delivers morethan 2.3 million tons of sulfuric acid annually tocustomers in a wide variety of industries.

Xstrata’s sulfuric acid production facilities arewell positioned to serve most markets. Withcapability to ship by truck, rail, or vessel,NorFalco is able to provide responsive, reliableand flexible product supply backed by superiorservice and support.

5

The Xstrata Nickelsmelting facility locatednear Sudbury is part of a world-class nickelproduction system. Ithas both rail and truckshipping capability.

Xstrata Copper’s KiddCreek metallurgy site inTimmins, Ontario is anintegrated copper / zincmetallurgical plant witha large acid productioncapability also havingtruck and rail loadingcapability.

L o c a t e d i n R o u y n -N o r a n d a , Q u e b e c ,Xstrata Copper’s Hornesmelter is one of theworld’s major customcopper smelters . Themodern sulfuric acidplant is complementedby an 80,000-ton storagesystem with truck andrail shipping capability.

The Noranda’s Income FundLimited Partnership (CEZinc)plant is a refinery producinghigh quality zinc. Located onthe St. Lawrence Seaway nearMontreal, its proximity tomarkets and multi-modalloading capabilities make it aversatile supplier by truck,rail or vessel. CEZinc’s threeacid plants are ISO 9002certified, making it one of theworld’s largest single sourcesof ISO certified sulfuric acid.

Xstrata Zinc’s Brunswicksmelter operates a sulfuricacid plant at its leadsmelter near Belledune,N e w B r u n s w i c k .This site has multi-modaldistribution capabilitiesincluding a year-roundmarine vessel shippingfacility.

Page 8: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

6

Historically, sulfuric acid production was based on theLead Chamber Process, involving the oxidation ofsulfur dioxide by nitric acid and nitrogen oxides in thepresence of water. This has been replaced by theContact Process in which sulfur dioxide is oxidized byatmospheric air at high temperatures and in thepresence of a vanadium pentoxide catalyst.

Specifics will vary from one plant to another, but thisdescription is provided as an overview of a typicalContact Process.

The process begins with cleaning of the gas. Thesulfur dioxide from smelting and roasting operationspasses through a series of gas cleaning steps that cooland remove almost all metallurgical dusts. The gas isthen drawn through electrostatic precipitators whereacid mist and any remaining dust particles areremoved. The wet gas is dried in a tower by directcontact with 93% sulfuric acid and a blower thenforces the gas through a series of heat exchangers and

TheProduction

Process

The criteria of purity andaccuracy of grade are the

primary goals of sulfuric acidproduction. The Contact

Process, described here, isalmost universally used to

convert SO2 to H2SO4

Weak Acid Solution

93% Acid Stream

SO2 Gas Stream

98% Acid Stream

SO3 Gas Stream

Acid Pumps

Quench Tower:Weak acid jets removeparticulate matter fromhot process gasses

Scrubber:Further contact with

acid jets providesadditional cooling

and cleaning

ElectrostaticPrecipitators:Acid mist and remainingdust particles removedWeak Acid

Pump Tank

Page 9: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

7

converter beds, where, in the presence of vanadiumpentoxide, the sulfur dioxide is oxidized to sulfurtrioxide.

The purpose of the heat exchangers is to utilize theheat of reaction in the converter beds to heat theincoming cool gas to the reaction temperature. TheSO3 gas then passes through an absorption tower whereit combines with the water in 98% sulfuric acid tomake additional sulfuric acid.

Depending on the required product strength, acid fromthe absorption or drying towers can be stripped of SO2,cooled, and pumped to storage. Some acid isexchanged between the absorption and drying circuitsto maintain acid strength.

Drying TowerPumpTank

Drying Tower:Clean gasses are dried by contactwith concentrated H2 SO4

Converter:SO2 in the clean dry gas isconverted to SO3

HeatExchangersbetweeneach stageof conversion

Absorption Tower:SO3 is absorbed by waterin concentrated acid to form more H2SO4

Absorption TowerPump Tank

To Stack

SO2 Stripper: Air streamremoves excess SO2

To DryingTower

Page 10: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

GENERAL PROPERTIES OF SULFURIC ACID

NorFalco markets sulfuric acid from 93% to 99%.

The non-fuming form of sulfuric acid is clear,odorless, slightly oily, with a specific gravity almostdouble that of water. Handlers of sulfuric acidshould be aware of the reactive nature of sulfuricacid including the following:

• Very small quantities of organic materials willdecompose into carbon in the presence of sulfuricacid and may cause discoloration.

• Sulfuric acid attacks most common metals.However, for most applications at ambienttemperatures, carbon steel is generallysatisfactory for storage tanks, tank cars, lines andother equipment in contact with acid at strengthsat or above 93%. Agitation, higher temperaturesor lower acid strengths will increase corrosion.

• Stainless steel and several non-metallic coatingsare becoming more widely used, especially wheresevere conditions are encountered and/or whereproduct integrity is critical.

• Hydrogen gas will form as a result of thecorrosion of most metals, and must be aconsideration when designing or working on anyhandling system to avoid the possibility of anexplosive mixture being formed.

• Sulfuric acid has a strong affinity for water andwill react violently and generate heat whencoming into contact with water or a differentconcentration of sulfuric acid.

• Sulfuric acid reacts vigorously with alkalinesolutions; metal powders; carbides; chlorates;fulminates; nitrates; picrates; strong oxidizing,reducing or combustible organic materials, withevolution of heat. Mists containing sulfuric acidcan be carcinogenic. See MSDS for details.

• Hazardous gases are evolved on contact withchemicals such as cyanides, sulfides and carbides.At high temperatures and concentrations,penetrating SO3 fumes may be released.

For further information on hazards and safetyrequirements, see the NorFalco MSDS.

11223344

55667788

99

1010

1111

Graphs, Tablesand Data

8

Dilution: RectangleMethod & Typical Dilutions

Densities of Sulfuric Acid

Specific Gravities/Weights/Freezing Points:Sulfuric Acid

Temperature Correctionsto Specific Gravity andDegrees Baumé:Sulfuric Acid

Freezing Points:Sulfuric Acid and Oleum

Boiling Points:Sulfuric Acid and Oleum

Enthalpy:Sulfuric Acid and Oleum

Viscosity byConcentration: SulfuricAcid and Oleum atVarious Temperatures

Viscosity by Temperature:Sulfuric Acid at VariousConcentrations

Corrosion Rates of CarbonSteel in Sulfuric Acid byConcentration andTemperature

Metals and Alloys withCorrosion Rate <20 mpyin Sulfuric Acid Dependingon Temperature andConcentration

Sulfuric Acid Equipment - Industry References1212

Page 11: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

9

NorFalco

1 Dilution: Rectangle Method& Typical Dilutions

IMPORTANT:When diluting sulfuric acid with wateror when blending acids of differentstrengths, ALWAYS ADD THE ACIDTO THE WATER or THE STRONGERACID TO THE WEAKER ACID.When diluting sulfuric acid, a greatdeal of heat may be released. Ensurematerials of construction used indiluting and in storing acid areresistant to the conditions of use.Steel is not resistant to manyconcentrations of sulfuric acid.

The RECTANGLE METHOD provides a quick and accurate method of determiningamounts of acid and diluents required for dilution or blending of sulfuric acid.EXAMPLE To determine how many pounds of water it takes to dilute 93.50% sulfuricacid to 100 pounds of 77.67% acid.

The rectangle is drawn by placing the desired strength in the center, and the strengthsof each original solution on the left hand side. By subtracting the smaller numbers fromthe larger numbers along the diagonals, the answers appear on the right-hand side asshown below.

Typical dilutions, H2SO4 with water both at 80°F

Final strengthHeat to be removed in cooling

(Btu per lb diluted acid)

Final temperatureInitial strength

Degrees Baumé Percent

Specific gravity(60°/60°F)

Final temperature(°F)

80°F 110°F 140°F

60° 77.67 1.7059 244 79.1 64.5 51.8

55° 69.65 1.6111 266 94.0 80.0 65.4

50° 62.18 1.5263 268 101.3 85.3 70.0

45° 55.07 1.4500 255 101.5 84.3 67.7

40° 48.10 1.3810 234 97.9 81.0 61.2

35° 41.27 1.3182 213 90.5 70.5 49.5

66° Bé

(93.19%)

30° 34.63 1.2609 190 81.2 59.2 37.5

66° 93.19 1.8354 180 40 28.5 19.0

60° 77.67 1.7059 310 112.5 97.5 84.0

55° 69.65 1.6111 322 124.5 109.2 94.5

98%

50° 62.18 1.5263 287 (boils) 112.5 96.4 81.5Reprinted with permissionfrom Crane-Resistoflex.

1

Page 12: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

10

33 Specific Gravities/ Weights/ Freezing Points: Sulfuric Acid

22 Densities of Sulfuric Acid

Page 13: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

NorFalco

11

55

44 Temperature Corrections to Specific Gravityand Degrees Baumé: Sulfuric Acid

Freezing Points:Sulfuric Acid and Oleum

To determine actual Specific Gravity or Degrees Baumé at temperatures other than 60.0 degrees F/ 15.6 degrees C:

a) subtract correction factor for each degree above 60 degrees F / 15.6 degrees C, or

b) add correction factor for each degree below 60 degrees F / 15.6 degrees CNote: Titration should be used for measurement of strength over 93% / 66 degrees Baumé

Reprinted with permissionfrom W.W. Duecker andJ.R. West, TheManufacture of SulfuricAcid, at p.413 (New York:Reinhold PublishingCorporation, 1959).Copyright 1950 AmericanChemical Society,Washington, D.C.

Page 14: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

12

66 Boiling Points:Sulfuric Acid and Oleum

Reprinted with permissionfrom W.W. Duecker andJ.R. West, TheManufacture of SulfuricAcid, at p.434 (New York:Reinhold PublishingCorporation, 1959).Copyright GeneralChemical Corporation,Parsippany, N.J.

Page 15: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

13

77 Enthalpy:Sulfuric Acid and Oleum

Reprinted with permissionfrom O.T. Fasullo, Sulfuric Acid: Use andHandling, at p.300 (NewYork: McGraw-Hill BookCompany, 1965)Copyright Rhône-PoulencBasic Chemicals Co.,Shelton, CT.

PERCENT SULFURIC ACID

NorFalco

Page 16: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

14

99

88 Viscosity by Concentration:Sulfuric Acid and Oleumat Various Temperatures

Viscosity by Temperature:Sulfuric Acid at VariousConcentrations

Reprinted with permissionfrom O.T. Fasullo, Sulfuric Acid: Use andHandling, at p.305 (NewYork: McGraw-Hill BookCompany, 1965).Copyright Rhône-PoulencBasic Chemicals Co.,Shelton, CT.

Percent Sulfuric Acid Percent Free Sulfur Trioxide

Reprinted with permissionfrom O.T. Fasullo, Sulfuric Acid: Use andHandling, at p.304 (NewYork: McGraw-Hill BookCompany, 1965) CopyrightChas. S. Lewis & Company,St. Louis, MO.

Page 17: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

15

NorFalco

Corrosion Rates of Carbon Steelin Sulfuric Acid by Concentrationand Temperature

Reprinted with permission from Crane-Resistoflex

1010

Corrosion of Flange Quality Steel by Sulfuric Acid50° Bé to 100% H2SO4 Temp. 80° to 150°F

Flange Quality Specifications

Carbon - 0.25% Max.Manganese - 0.30-0.60%Phosphorus - 0.05% Max.Sulfur - 0.05% Max.

Page 18: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

16

1111 Metals and Alloys withCorrosion Rate <20 mpyin Sulfuric AcidDepending onTemperature andConcentration

Code for Sulfuric Acid GraphMaterials in shaded zones have reported corrosion rate <20mpy

Reprinted with permission from the copyright holder, NACE International.

1. No air2. < 10% aerated3. < 75C4. < 20% at 25C5. < 25% aerated at 25C6. < 96% concentration7. >80% concentration8. < 80% aerated9. < 75C, < 96%10. 20 to 50 mpy

Zone 120Cr 30Ni66Ni 32Cu1

62Ni 28MoType 3162

Al bronze10%1

Copper1

GoldLeadMolybdenumNickel cast

ironPlatinumSilverTantalumZirconium

Zone 220Cr 30Ni3

66Ni 32Cu1

62Ni 28MoType 3165

Al bronze10%1

Copper1

GoldLeadMolybdenumNickel cast

iron4

PlatinumSilicon cast

ironSilverTantalumZirconium

Zone 320Cr 30Ni3

66Ni 32Cu1

62Ni 28MoGoldLeadMolybdenumPlatinumSilicon ironTantalumZirconium

Zone 420Cr 30Ni62Ni 28MoType 3167

GoldLead6

Nickel castiron

PlatinumSilicon ironSteelTantalumZirconium8

Zone 520Cr 30Ni3

62Ni 28MoGoldLead9

PlatinumSilicon ironTantalum

Zone 662Ni 28Mo1 0

GoldPlatinumSilicon ironTantalum

Zone 7GoldPlatinumSilicon ironTantalum

Zone 820Cr 30Ni18Cr 8Ni54Ni 15Cr

16MoGoldPlatinumSteel

Zone 920Cr 30Ni18Cr 8NiGoldPlatinum

Zone 10GoldPlatinum

Page 19: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

17

NorFalco

1212 Sulfuric Acid Equipment -Industry References

SULFURIC ACID EQUIPMENT - INDUSTRY REFERENCES

ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div I.

Handbook of Sulphuric Acid Manufacturing, Douglas K. Louie, P. Eng.

ASME B31.3, "Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping"

Materials Technology Institute of the Chemical Process Industries, Inc. [MTI] Publication MS-1,"Materials Selector for Hazardous Chemicals. Vol 1: Concentrated Sulphuric Acid and Oleum" 1997,C. P. Dillon, including Addendum - "Carbon Steel Sulphuric Acid Storage Tank - Inspection Guidelines"

The following are important industry references related to materials of construction, fabrication,inspection and maintenance of sulfuric acid storage equipment. This is not intended to be a complete list. Normally, the latest edition should be obtained. Appropriate engineering judgementshould be exercised in the use of these or other references.

NACE International Standard Recommended Practice, NACE Standard RP0294, "Design,Fabrication and Inspection of Tanks for the Storage of Concentrated Sulphuric Acid and Oleum atAmbient Temperatures"

NACE International Standard Recommended Practice, NACE Standard RP0391, "Materials for theHandling and Storage of Concentrated (90 to100%) Sulfuric Acid at Ambient Temperatures"

American Petroleum Institute Standard (API), API-650, "Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage"

American Petroleum Institute Standard (API), API-653, "Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, AndReconstruction"

American Petroleum Institute (API) Piping Inspection Code, API-570, "Inspection, Repair, Alteration,and Rerating of In-Service Piping Systems"

Page 20: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

18

Page 21: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

19

NorFalco

The sulfuric acid marketed and distributed by NorFalcois transported either by tank truck, railway tank car orship. Sulfuric acid should only be handled bypersonnel that have been properly trained in thespecific safety requirements and procedures required todo their work. Appropriate individual companyprocedures and applicable government requirements,including Transport Canada or U.S. Department ofTransportation hazardous materials regulations, mustbe followed during all phases of the handling andtransportation of sulfuric acid. The same holds true forempty sulfuric acid tank cars or tank trucks beingreturned to NorFalco since they often containsignificant amounts of residue.

TANK TRUCKSTruck tanks are normally constructed of stainless steeland designed to hold 25 to 40 short tons of sulfuricacid. Insulated tank trucks may be required dependingon the strength of the product.Truck tanks are loaded through an open fill hole on top.Truck tanks can be unloaded from the top if equippedwith eduction pipes (“down pipes” or “siphon pipes”),or from the bottom, using 30 psi max air pressure.Some trucks are equipped with a portable aircompressor and air hose for self unloading. Trucks canalso be unloaded using gravity feed and pumps.Generally, top and bottom fittings are constructed ofstainless steel and consist of:

➀ Hinged fill hole cover

➁ 42 psi rupture disc and housing

➂ Spring vent and 1" air inlet valve complete withcap or plug

➃ 2" acid outlet or eduction pipe with valve and cap

➄ 3" bottom acid outlet with valve and plug (2" onrequest)

➅ Emergency shutoff valve located at the front of thetank on the driver’s side

➆ 4 placard holders to identify the product on bothsides and at each end

Transportation

Top: Document VerificationMiddle: Typical Tank Truck FittingsBottom: Tank Truck with EmergencyShutoff Valve (inset)

4

6

57

Page 22: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

20

RAILWAY TANKCARSAll the cars in the Norfalco tank car fleet are non-pressure general service tank cars equipped with topunloading fittings, and are used exclusively fortransporting sulfuric acid. The cars are specificationDOT or TC 111 A 100 W2 as stenciled on eachsides. Where:

- DOT or TC: Approving authority (Department OfTransportation, US) (Transport Canada)

- 111: General Service or Low Pressure Tank Cars(<165psi)

- A: Separator

- 100: Tank test pressure(note: now tested to 165psi)

- W2: Welded carbon steel, bottom outletprohibited

Cars used by NorFalco have a capacity of 100 shorttons and have a baked phenolic interior coating tomaintain product quality and protect the interior of therailcar against corrosion. Tank cars used for shipping93% acid do not need to be insulated. Tank cars usedfor shipping 96%, 98%, and 99%, are usually insulatedfor winter use and may also be steam coiled.

At NorFalco facilities each tank car load of acid ispressure tested with air to check for leaks, anddepressurized just prior to shipping. Furthermore, sealsare applied to ensure the integrity of the product whilebeing transported to the customer.

Top fittings on tank cars may vary in design andposition. In the NorFalco tank car fleet there are somecars with the ‘Conventional Acid Cars Top Fittings’ buta majority of cars are now equipped with the‘NorFalco Low Profile Top Fittings’.

Top fittings include(see figure I):➀ A hinged fill hole and

cover with a gasket seal➁ A 2" or 3" discharge

(eduction pipe) closedwith a pipe cap

➂ A 1" air connection andpressure release valve

➃ A safety vent assemblycontaining a rupture discassembly to protect the tankfrom excessive pressure(typically adjacent to fillhole). A “surge arrestor” or“hydro damp” under thesafety vent assembly reducesthe internal surgepressures at the safetyrelief deviceinterface

➄ A gaugebarmountedinside the fill hole nozzle togauge level when loading of car

3

4

(Figure I)

5

Page 23: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

EDUCTION PIPE: The acid discharge pipe runningfrom the top of the car down inside, to a small sump onthe bottom. Sometimes called the “siphon pipe”. Thepipe is closed off with a cap, which is attached to thecar with a chain. It may be either 2” or 3” in diameter.The NorFalco fleet is currently converting to all 2”diameter to ensure consistency, and soon the entire fleetwill be changed to 2”.

AIR INLET/PRESSURE RELEASE VALVE: An airconnection to introduce compressed air to pressurizethe car for unloading. On Conventional Cars it issituated on the side of the rupture disc assembly whileon the NorFalco Low Profile Cars it is installed at a 45°angle on the manway plate. The connection consists ofa 1” plug, or a 1” valve with a plug, with the valvehandle removed and attached to the car with a chain.This air connection is also used for depressurizing thecar before hooking up hoses for unloading.

BOTTOM WASHOUT: Some tank cars have a blankflange and plug situated on the bottom of the tank car.This fitting is only used when cars are being cleaned at

shops for internal inspection. NorFalco’s fleet is beingmodified to remove or permanently close thesewashouts to eliminate any chance of leakage in thisarea.

TOP FITTINGS ARRANGEMENTS

21

NorFalco

• Low Profile Fittings and Side Guard Plates: Thetop fittings on NorFalco acid cars, such as the rupturedisc assembly, air valve and eduction pipe, areshortened to enable the larger and more prominent fillhole nozzle to provide protection in the event of aderailment rollover. This protection is furtherenhanced by the addition of two steel side guardplates. Both the fill hole nozzle and side guard plateswill absorb forces encountered during rollover, greatlyreducing the risk of fittings shearing off and releasingacid to the environment.

• All Stainless Steel Construction: The man-way coverand all mounted fittings and nozzles on new NorFalcocars are made of 316 Stainless Steel for improvedstrength and corrosion protection. This will result inless corrosion, less leakage, reduced maintenance andeasier customer hook-up. This design is being appliedto all new build tank cars and, where practical, toexisting tank cars.

NORFALCO LOW PROFILE FITTINGS TANK CARS

Protective Side GuardsMan-way cover & all fittingsmade of 3/16 Stainless Steel

Prominent Fill Nozzle & Cover

(c/w 1-5/8” Hex Nuts)

Lower Rupture Disc Assembly

Lower Eduction Pipe (c/w 1-5/8” HexNut Cap, Gasket and ACME cap threads)

Relocated Air Valve(c/w 1-5/8” Hex Plug)

Page 24: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

22

• Eduction Pipe Cap Easier to Remove and Seal: Theeduction pipe cap has been redesigned to enableeasier removal and better sealing. The new designuses a separate, coarser set of ACME threads to attachthe pipe cap, along with a cap gasket to provide abetter in-transit seal. This leaves the finer standard 2”NPT pipe threads untouched by the pipe cap, and willextend the life of these threads for easier hook-up bycustomer unloaders. To enhance safety the cap isslotted to allow pressure release in a downwarddirection. This will help warn operators if an attemptis made to remove the cap while there is still pressurein the tank car. The new design also enables mucheasier removal of the pipe cap, minimizing effort andfrustration encountered when trying to loosen capstightened onto the tapered pipe threads - a commoncustomer complaint. For better operation of thisassembly, please note that the coarse threads (ACME)do not need any lubricant, sealant or Teflon tape toensure the tightness of this assembly. In fact suchapplication will make use and operation of the fittingmore difficult.

• Viton B® Gaskets: The NorFalco fleet standard foracid tank car gaskets is Viton B®. Though moreexpensive than other gasket materials, experience hasshown this material to be very effective for sulfuricacid tank cars.

• Center Mount Fittings with Full Platforms: Topfittings and valves on NorFalco cars are centermounted on or near the main man-way flange andsurrounded by a full platform. The central locationand full platform provide convenient access forcustomer operators to safely make all requiredconnections. The central location also helps reduceliquid sloshing impacts on rupture discs and gaskets.

• Hydro Damps/Surge Protectors: All NorFalco carsare equipped with surge protectors. Surge protectorsare specialized devices mounted inside the tank carjust under the rupture disc assembly. Surge protectorsbaffle the impact of sloshing acid caused by carmovement. This baffling effect reduces liquidhammer pressures on the rupture disc, thus preventingpremature failure and leaks.

• Bottom Washout Removed: To eliminate risk ofleakage through the washout flange and plug on thebottom of acid tank cars, we have worked with oursuppliers to eliminate the washout assembly on allnew NorFalco tank cars. For existing NorFalco cars,the washout cover is being removed and the openingwelded shut.

• One Tool Size: Fittings and flanges required foroffloading can now be disassembled with one toolsize. A 1 5/8 inch socket head fits the fill hole covernuts, the air valve plug, and the newly modifiededuction pipe cap on all new and modified cars. Astandard ratchet with extension can also be used.

Norfalco Modified Eduction Pipe Cap for Sulfuric Acid Car

New Viton B Cap Gasketfor improved seal

Large Corrosion ResistantACME Threads - to anchor

cap to eduction pipe

Standard 2” NPT Pipe Threadfor Customer Hook-up only

(not used to anchor Cap)

1 5/8” Hex Nut Headwelded to Cap to provide easy

cap removal

Eduction PipeNipple & Flange

Eduction Pipe Cap

Page 25: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

ENHANCED SECURITY ON SULFURICACID TANK CARS

In line with our commitment to Responsible Care®,NorFalco has embarked on a program of securing andsealing all access points on railcar shipments of sulfuricacid. Our approach to sealing tank cars involves twodistinct seal types, both of which meet ISO standardsfor high security seals:

- Permanent flange seals applied to secure flangesand other potential openings that are not involvedin loading or offloading of tank cars. These 3/16”thick steel cable seals are not to be removed exceptwhen tank cars are in shop receiving maintenance.

- A single use fittings seal to seal the fittings that areused for loading and unloading a tank car. This is asingle 1/8” diameter x 80” long cable seal thatwinds its way through all the four regular-usefittings (air valve plug, fill hole cover, eductionpipe cap and rupture disc assembly) and must beremoved to unload a tank car.

Leaving a cut seal on top of the platform mightrepresent a hazard for the personnel involved in tank carmovement and loading. Please ensure that customerunloading personnel remove all severed seal cablesbefore return of the residue tank car.

VESSELSVessels equipped to carry sulfuric acid vary in size andversatility up to ships of over 20,000 tons capacity. Theequipment required to unload will vary accordingly.

23

NorFalco

Recommended Tool for Low Profile Sulfuric Acid Tank Cars

Two pieces of 1-inch diameterpipe, Sch. 40 carbon steel

Fittings Seal

Permanent Seals

Full circumference,full penetration welds

1 5/8” heavy duty impactwrench long socket

(2 3/4” deep, carbon steel)

Page 26: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

Storage and HandlingThe properties of sulfuric acid, in large measure, dictatethe design, fabrication, and operation of storagefacilities, as well as how sulfuric acid is handled. Itscorrosive, reactive nature, strong affinity for water andhigh specific gravity are three major considerations.Before the construction of a storage or handling system,advice must be obtained from a competent engineeringdepartment or consultant and codes and regulations mustbe recognized.

At each point where sulfuric acid is handled, there mustbe ready access to safety showers and eye wash stations.There must be a minimum of fifteen minutes of warmwater at a high enough volume to drench the user, andbe equipped with an automatic alarm system designed tosummon help from adjacent areas. Safety showers mustbe supplied with 20 to 30 degree C tempered water tomeet OSHA standards (Min. 30 gpm flow), be within a10 second unobstructed walk (about 50 feet) from theunloading point and be “weatherized” (freeze protected).

STORAGE TANKSStorage tanks for sulfuric acid in strengths of 93%through 99% are usually fabricated from carbon steel. Atnormal temperatures there is usually some gradualcorrosion on carbon steel that results in the evolutionof hydrogen gas and the formation of an iron sulfate

24

precipitate, most of which settles to the bottom of thetank. Wall thickness should be carefully calculated toprovide corrosion allowances and for the high specificgravity of the acid. Smaller storage tanks (under 10,000gallons) are sometimes constructed from stainless steelor a type of HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) madeespecially for sulfuric acid service. Such materialsreduce or eliminate hydrogen and iron-sulfategeneration. Regardless of the material your tank isconstructed from, always ensure that it has beendesigned and manufactured specifically for sulfuricacid.

Many storage tanks use anodic protection systems tominimize corrosion. Storage tank cleaning andinspection procedures are available on request fromNorFalco .

HYDROGEN GAS: Hydrogen gas is potentially explosiveand special care must be taken when working near tanksor performing maintenance on tanks. A hydrogen meterand spark proof tools and lights should be used, andopen flames and welding should be avoided.

CORROSION, INSPECTION AND CLEANING: A program ofroutine internal inspection should be established toensure early detection of excessive corrosion. It isnecessary to clean out the tanks at regular intervals toallow for inspection. A suggested minimum frequencyis every 3 years for tanks containing hot acid and every5 years for tanks containing cold acid.

FOUNDATION AND SECONDARY CONTAINMENT: It isrecommended that storage tanks be enclosed by asecondary containment wall having a capacity no lessthan 110% of the largest tank volume (local regulationsmay vary). The containment area should be kept dryand clean. In the event of a leak, the acid should beneutralized and pumped out before it reaches a sewer orwatercourse.

HEATING AND INSULATION: Heating and insulation aregenerally required for 96%, 98%, 99% acid, while 93%acid rarely requires either.

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25

NorFalco

➀ Catwalk➁ Vent Pipe➂ Overflow Line➃ Acid Inlet➄ Acid Outlet➅ Secondary

ContainmentWall

CAPACITY: A good guide for the capacity of the storagetank is 1.5 times the size of the normal delivery or thenormal delivery plus two weeks consumption,whichever is greater, although specific productionparameters may dictate otherwise.

FILL LINE: Full length dip pipe near the center of theroof with siphon break in dip pipe below roof line. Fillinternal dip pipe, type 316 L stainless steel full length towithin 24 inches of floor, supported at bottom. Directlyunderneath, place a carbon wear plate welded to tank.

VENT: Sulfuric acid storage tanks must always have anopen vent for normal breathing and to preventdangerous pressure build-up due to hydrogen.Hydrogen gas may be produced from the action of acidon the steel tank and cause increased pressure anddanger of explosion from potential sparks or flames.The vent line should ideally be constructed of acidresistant material such as polyvinyl chloride. If carbonsteel is used for a vent line, iron sulfate can build up in

the line over time requiring periodic checks to preventblockage and possible tank collapse during acidtransfer. The vent line should be flush with the innersurface at the highest point of the tank to assure allhydrogen is purged thus minimizing the danger ofexplosion.

CATWALKS AND OVERHEAD PIPES: Metal catwalks shouldbe provided for working on top of tanks as hidden weakspots may have developed from internal corrosion. Oneshould never walk on the tank skin and should alwaysuse the catwalk. If dripping is noticed from a linesuspended above, don’t look up. Step well away beforeinvestigating.

PROXIMITY TO OTHER MATERIALS: Although sulfuricacid is not flammable, it should not be stored nearorganic materials, nitrates, carbides, chlorates or metalpowders. Contact between high concentrations ofsulfuric acid and these materials may cause ignition.

PIPING: All lines should be installed so that they draintoward the storage tank, or toward the point ofconsumption. This will prevent the accumulation ofacid in low points, thereby eliminating possible safetyhazards when repairs are necessary. The line from theloading point to storage should be equipped with avalve so acid flow may be stopped at any time. Theunloading line should also include a drain point that canbe checked prior to disconnecting the transfer hose orpipe. Additional information on piping can be obtainedby request from NorFalco. NorFalco does notrecommend the use of PVC or CPVC for liquid sulfuricacid service, except, possibly, as a liner that has fullmechanical support from steel or FRP. This is due to theunpredictable risk of mechanical failure, which canresult in acid exposure to personnel, equipment, and/orthe environment. Piping at connection points isparticularly susceptible to failure.

GENERAL HANDLING PRECAUTIONSSulfuric acid, like any other corrosive substance, isdangerous if improperly handled. However, if properhandling procedures are followed, large volumes can behandled safely.

The safe handling of sulfuric acid from tank trucks andtank cars by the application of air pressure or by gravityrequires careful attention to proper procedures andshould be conducted by trained personnel wearingproper protective clothing.

Smoking or other sources of ignition should not bepermitted near tank cars or trucks whether full or empty.Tank cars and trucks should be accurately spotted at theunloading line. For safety reasons, it is recommendedthat at least two persons be present during unloading.

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26

A) Prior to DischargeThe brakes should be set, and the wheels of tank cars ortrucks chocked on both sides of the wheel to preventmotion in either direction. Blue warning flags andderails for tank cars should be placed at least 1.5 carlengths away. Before unloading, contents should beidentified and the quantity verified and compared to theavailable storage capacity. All caution markings oncontainers should be observed.

Placards must indicate U.N. No.1830 for sulfuric acid,and 1832 for spent acid.

Tank cars and tank trucks when received will frequentlybe under pressure because of thermal expansion of theacid or slow hydrogen generation. The pressure in thetank car or truck must first be released by carefully andslowly removing the 1” plug from the safety vent or byslowly opening the 1” pressure release valve. Only thencan the fill hole cover be opened. However, sincesulfates may have blocked the pressure release valve,care should be taken when opening the fill hole cover,since the car may still be pressurized.

It is not recommended to vent through the fill hole.

A hydrogen-enriched atmosphere can develop in thedome of tank cars which have been in transit for longperiods, particularly in hot weather. Therefore, it isgood practice to vent the gas space with the cover open

Air Unloading

(for 5 minutes) before sampling, to avoid a stray staticspark triggering an explosion.

B) Discharge - Top UnloadingAfter the tank car or truck has been completelydepressurized and the fill hole cover opened, the cap onthe eduction pipe can be removed. This should be donecarefully and slowly since some residual air may betrapped in the pipe.

Under no circumstances should the cap be removedfrom the eduction pipe before the pressure in thetank car or truck has been released and verified. Theacid discharge hose must always be connected before

The air line should consist of:➀ A water/oil separator➁ A shut-off valve➂ A pressure reducing

valve set at 25-28 psi➃ A pressure gauge➄ A safety relief valve set at 30 psi➅ A manual valve to release pressure when tank is empty

Air pressure should be applied slowly to the tank caror truck to establish a flow of acid to the storage tank.

The pressure gauge should be checked to ensure thatit does not exceed 30 psi.

The flexible acid line must be supported because ofthe high specific gravity of sulfuric acid.

If any leaks should develop in the acid lines, the airmust be shut off and the air pressure released fromthe tank before attempting to correct the leaks.

A drop in air pressure and thesound of air rushing through thedischarge line will indicate that thetank car or truck is empty.

Sufficient air should be blown through the line tofree it of all product.

The air supply should be shut off and the pressurereleased by opening the release valve.

When the tank is at atmospheric pressure, the air linecan be disconnected from the tank.

Product Identification Placard

Page 29: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

the air piping is connected to the tank car or truck.Rubber hoses must never be used for acid discharge.

Teflon® lined hoses, with abrasion resistant outercovering are recommended for use with sulfuric acid.Detailed information regarding discharge hosespecifications and hose inspection procedures can beobtained on request from NorFalco. Ask for theTechQuip information sheets on this subject.

C) After DischargeAllow sufficient time for acid to drain from thedischarge line. Care should be taken to prevent poolsfrom accumulating in low spots before the dischargeline is disconnected. Replace all valves, plugs, and capsand secure the cover.

We recommend use of VITON B gaskets in sulfuric acidservice for hoses, tank cars and tank trucks. When using

VITON B gaskets it is important that they meet specificquality standards. A TechQuip sheet on recommendedgaskets is available on request from NorFalco.

After discharge, a small amount of residue of theproduct remains in the tank car/tank truck, therefore1830 placards will remain displayed for the residuecontainers returned to NorFalco. If the tank car cannotbe completely discharged or if any object has droppedinto the tank car, notify NorFalco promptly. Removewheel chocks, blue flag and derails.

For more comprehensive guidance on the safe unloadingof sulfuric acid tank cars and trucks, please refer to theNorFalco Sulfuric Acid Safety Series Video, CD-ROMor DVD, which contains “The Professional Approach toPersonal Safety”, “Tank Car Unloading” and “TruckUnloading”.

Typical top fittings

Hand brake (on B end)

27

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28

SafetyThe Professional

Approach

While sulfuric acid’s reactive nature makes it a valuabletool in numerous industrial processes, its corrosivenature makes it extremely hazardous when it comes incontact with organic substances, such as the sugars, fatsand proteins that make up human tissue.

Prompt emergency measures can help minimize theeffects of an accidental burn, but the professional goal isprevention by the consistent adherence to establishedsafe operating procedures.

Dilution:Acid’s reactive and corrosive nature and strong affinityfor water create a special hazard when acid is beingdiluted. Although in daily life it comes naturally to addwater to dilute a substance, one should never add waterto sulfuric acid.

The first drops of water entering the acid will beattacked so ferociously they will boil, spatteringundiluted acid out of the vessel.

Instead, when diluting, one should always add the acidto the water, slowly while stirring. The larger volume ofwater will absorb and dissipate the heat generated bythe reaction.

Acid Mist:Sulfuric acid mist is a human carcinogen and goodventilation must be provided to keep mistconcentrations below the exposure limits (currently 0.2mg/M3 but check MSDS for latest limits). Avoidbreathing sulfuric acid mist and wear approvedrespiratory protection if adequate ventilation cannot beprovided.

Hydrogen Gas:Sulfuric acid, by itself, is not flammable. But, if itcomes in contact with metal, such as the steel in storagetanks and lines, hydrogen gas may be producedintroducing the danger of explosion. Therefore, strictadherence to no smoking rules and the use of hydrogendetecting meters, spark proof tools and inspectionlamps is essential, especially if any activity is plannedfor the tank which may cause sparking, such aswelding, hammering or cutting.

The fundamentals of safety ares t r o n g l y l i n k e d t o t h edevelopment of good workpractices by your personnel.The development of a safetyprogram that stresses accidentprevention and good workpractices must be tailored to aparticular operation’s needs. AtN o r F a l c o , w e f o s t e r aprofessional attitude, supportingit with information on thenature of the product, theeffective use of personalprotective equipment and thepromotion of safe work habits.Regular training sessions fornew and experienced personnelare supported with ready accessto additional information inboth print and video form,including the Material SafetyData Sheets.

ACCIDENT PREVENTION

Page 31: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

29

NorFalco

PERSONAL SAFETYEQUIPMENT

The safe handling of large volumes ofsulfuric acid every day is a tribute tothe professional attitude of operatorsand the conscientious use of personalsafety equipment. Every operatormust be fully trained in the use ofpersonal safety equipment.

Body protection suits come in avariety of forms. The choice isgoverned by each particularoperation.

Prior to suiting up, the suit,and “acid designated”gloves and boots, shouldbe checked for holes.Gloves are checked byimmersing them inwater.

Gloves should be looseenough to be easilyremoved in case acid entersthem. To help prevent this,sleeves should be worn outsidethe gloves.

Trouser cuffs should be wornoutside the boots to preventacid from draining into them.

For an acid line break, use ofan acid resistant hood isrecommended (in place ofgoggles and face shield).

Acid resistant hood

It is essential that eye protection isprovided from all angles because thefirst reflex if splashed is to turn thehead side to side.

For eye and face protection, a fullface shield with safety gogglesmust be worn.

Requirement details vary by facilityand work being performed. Gogglesand a face shield must be wornwhen working in a “Hot Zone”w h e r e s p l a s h e s c a n o c c u runexpectedly.

Hard hats should be worn to protectthe scalp.

Page 32: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

IF SPLASHED, run to the shower, removing clothes whilewashing and, most importantly, stay in the shower with safetygoggles for at least 15 minutes to dilute the corrosive effectsof the acid. Cool down small burns with white terry clothtowels, set aside for first aid, dipped in ice water. Co-workersshould make sure the victim remains in the shower the fulltime and, no matter how minor the splash, immediate medicalhelp should be sought. This will help avoid secondary effectsthat could occur later.

30

SAFETY SHOWERS AND EYE WASH STATIONSSafety showers and eye wash stations with alarms must belocated within a 10-second unobstructed walk on the samelevel as the hazard (fifty feet or less is a recommended safedistance) and must be checked daily. For further information,please refer to the most recent ANSI standard.

If the loading or unloading area has two levels, a safetystation must be located on each. They must also be locatedin nearby buildings, so that one is always accessible if aspill makes others unusable. Daily testing ensures correctoperation and appropriate water temperature. Water shouldbe lukewarm as an accident victim will have to stay under theshower for at least 15 minutes. The alarm, triggeredautomatically by the use of the shower or eye wash, is a signalfor co-workers to immediately offer assistance.

IF ACID MIST IS INHALED and causes irritation, removethe victim to fresh air. If he or she is not breathing, administerartificial respiration. Oxygen may be required, but in eithercase, get medical help immediately.

IF ACID IS INGESTED and the victim is conscious, havehim or her DRINK LOTS OF PLAIN WATER. Do not useantacids. Then immediately take the person to the hospital.DO NOT induce vomiting because it would cause a secondround of burning. If the victim is unconscious, get immediatemedical attention.

IF EYES ARE SPLASHED, immediately flush with waterfor a minimum of 15 minutes, longer if burning persists, whileholding the eyelids open. Co-workers should help to keepvictim’s eyelids open and get immediate medical help.

FIRST AIDA First Aid Manual covering first aid measures specific to sulfuric acid is available on request from NorFalco. Everysafety step, properly followed, reduces the chance and effect of even minor accidents, but...

Page 33: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

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NorFalco

One of NorFalco’s Emergency Response Teams

Pound of BaseRequired to NeutralizeSulfuric Acid SpillReprinted with permission of the National LimeAssociation, Lime : Handling, Application andStorage in Treatment Processes.Fig. 1 (Arlington: National Lime Association,Bulletin 213, Sixth Edition,1990).Copyright 1949,1982 National Lime Association,Arlington,VA.

Pounds of Sulfuric Acid Spilled (x1000)

SPILLS:In the event of a spill involving NorFalco producedsulfuric acid, please immediately call the appropriateNorFalco 24-hour emergency response telephonenumbers as found on the bill of lading. TheEmergency Response number for the United States isCHEMTREC 1-800-424-9300. The EmergencyResponse number for Canada is 1-877-377-2243.NorFalco has one of North America’s largest acidEmergency Response networks in place with trainedadvisors and 5 in-house emergency response teamsplus a network of contractors across North America.In the event of a small spill, one should contain andneutralize the acid with soda ash, or lime. Then from asafe distance, an experienced operator can dilute it usinglarge quantities of water. Since the area will becomeslippery, care should be taken.

Larger spills should be contained and appropriate actiontaken. Clean up and disposal should be carried out byexperienced personnel or a qualified contractor.

For containment and clean up advice you may phonethe NorFalco emergency response phone numbers.Always refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet fordetails on the safe handling of sulfuric acid.

Every company involved in the handling ofsulfuric acid should develop their own InternalEmergency Measures Plan which includesposting of all important contacts and phonenumbers at key locations in the plant andin training and operating manuals.

Page 34: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

Customer Service NorFalco’s Customer Service Center handles all ordersand support requests with a team of representativesassigned to manage your individual needs. Forunplanned after hours emergency requirements,NorFalco’s After Hours Customer Service Line isavailable to respond to your needs 24 hours a day, 7days a week.

With its multiple production facilities, largemultimodal transportation network, and centralizedmarketing expertise, NorFalco takes a highlycoordinated, interactive approach to all aspects of itssulfuric acid business. The customer can depend on asingle source for sulfuric acid supported by technicaland safety advice.

Page 35: Sulfuric Acid Handbook

NorFalco acid production sites:

Although every attempt has been made to provide accurate andreliable information in this guide, by its issuance NorFalcocannot and does not assume responsibility or liability in respect of itsuse and makes no performance guarantees.

For Further Information or to Place an Order Please Call:

Noranda Income Fund Limited Partnership (CEZinc)Valleyfield, QuebecJ6T 6L4

Xstrata Copper Horne SmelterRouyn-Noranda (Quebec)J9X 5B6

Xstrata Zinc Brunswick SmelterBelledune, New BrunswickE0B 1G0

Xstrata Copper Kidd Creek DivisionTimmins, OntarioP4N 7K1

Xstrata Nickel Sudbury OperationsFalconbridge, OntarioP0M 1S0

NorFalco LLC.6050 Oak Tree Blvd., Suite 190Independence, OH 44131 USA

Tel: (216) 642-7342 Fax: (216) 642-9169

NorFalco Sales Inc.6755 Mississauga Rd., Suite 304Mississauga, Ontario L5N 7Y2

Tel: (905) 542-6901 Fax: (905) 542-6914

www.norfalco.com

NorFalco

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D e l i v e r i n g M O R E t h a n H2

S O4

w w w . n o r f a l c o . c o m