The final rule came out last week on tanks cars and trains carrying crude oil and ethanol. For the most part, the rule was pretty reasonable, but in one area, we are all left scratching our heads and going “what?”The new tank car specification, 117, will definitely result in a safer car. It is stronger, less likely to leak when in a derailment due to valves sheared off, and if in a fire will survive intact longer due to enhanced thermal protection.
