To determine the slosh characteristics of IBCs with a combined capacity of up to 1,000 gallons through engineering modeling and road testing. An IBC can hold 119–884 gallons of liquid. The results from the engineering modeling and road testing will be used to determine if the slosh characteristics of IBCs aggregated to 1,000 gallons are similar to a single or compartmented cargo tank of the same capacity.

In the final rule on commercial driver’s license (CDL) testing and commercial learner’s permit standards published on May 9, 2011, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) revised the definition of “tank vehicle” to include any commercial vehicle transporting tanks (to include IBCs) of liquids or gases with an aggregate of 1,000 gallons or more. The revision of the definition of “tank vehicle” implies that a person driving a commercial vehicle carrying an aggregate of 1,000 gallons or more of liquids or gases in IBCs must hold a CDL with a tank vehicle (N) endorsement. Previously, drivers of such vehicles were not subject to this requirement.

Engineering modeling and road testing have been undertaken to ascertain whether the slosh characteristics of IBCs aggregated to 1,000 gallons or more are similar to a single or compartmented cargo tank of the same capacity. The results of this testing will be considered in determining whether there is a need to revise the existing rule on tank vehicle endorsements.

A final report that concludes whether the slosh characteristics of IBCs aggregated to 1,000 gallons or more are similar to the slosh characteristics of a single cargo tank of the same capacity.

October 2014: Kick-off meeting

January 2015: Literature search completed

April 2015: Research plan reviewed by peer review panel

May 2015: Begin execution of research plan

November 2015: Begin road testing

March 2016: Peer review of draft final report

FY 2014: $341,865

FY 2015: $246,700

Final report forthcoming.

Battelle Memorial Institute