It is an exciting time to be in the ammonia industry. Anhydrous ammonia has long been a key fertilizer in the agricultural sector. Over the past few years, a lot of development and testing have gone into exploring other uses for anhydrous ammonia. One area receiving a lot of focus is its use as a clean energy source. Ammonia provides a clean source of energy that can be stored for later use, making it a viable option as a fuel source in various industrial applications.
The maritime industry, a significant producer of greenhouse gases, could benefit immensely. Ammonia could provide the fuel needed to make intercontinental voyages with lower emissions than current fossil fuel burning vessels. Likewise, converting existing ammonia plants to produce a renewable form (ie., green or blue ammonia) will provide domestic U.S. industrial demand, a cleaner option in the future. The replacement of high emissions fuels is a key focus as the world’s greenhouse gases continue to escalate. Ammonia is one of the many options being explored and shows a lot of promise to be very successful.
Challenges in Ammonia Logistics
However, ammonia does have its challenges as a fuel source. Ammonia is transported and stored under pressure, requiring specialized equipment and proper handling to ensure safe transport and storage. The tanks used for storage and usage are heavier than those currently in use, which could mean less payload on vessels. More care is required while handling ammonia during the transfer process, including a full set of PPE, and a respirator is necessary when hooking and unhooking hoses.
Grammer’s Strategic Position
Grammer Logistics is in a prime position to meet the evolving needs of the industry. We have a highly experienced and trained group of drivers specifically hauling ammonia. Employing one of the largest ammonia trailer fleets in the U.S., our +500 MC331 trailers will ensure that we are ready to meet peak demand.
Innovations and Safety Measures
The ability to stay connected with the drivers and monitor the equipment is forefront when hauling any hazardous materials, especially anhydrous ammonia. Grammer uses Samsara to track the truck locations, as well as driver hours of service. We have cameras in all our trucks, both company and owner-operated, and are in the process of installing trailer trackers on the entire fleet. This will complete the visibility circle of being able to track the tractor, trailer, and driver while on the road. We outfit the trailers with top-of-the-line safety devices to stop the flow of product in case of a release. Safety is paramount, and it starts with training, not only when a driver starts but continuously throughout their tenure with Grammer.
Staying Ahead
Grammer stays in close touch with key players in the production of anhydrous ammonia. We hold meetings multiple times per year to stay up to date with the outlook and changes within those companies. We stay informed through media publications about what is on the horizon and hold internal meetings on what adaptations can be made to meet the possible demand. Knowing not everything is going to come to fruition but having it on everyone’s radar and having a foundation allows us to be ready if it does. With the depth of knowledge provided by more than 50 years in the industry, Grammer is uniquely positioned to meet the challenges of this emerging industry.
Beyond Ammonia
While we are known for our expertise in ammonia and natural gas liquids (NGL), Grammer Logistics offers much more. Our services extend to the transportation and management of chemicals, asphalt, and other specialty products. Our comprehensive logistics solutions ensure we meet the diverse needs of our customers across various sectors. If you are looking for a reliable partner to handle complex logistics challenges, contact us today.