NEWS for North Dakotans
Agriculture Communication, North Dakota State University
7 Morrill Hall, Fargo, ND 58105-5665

September 10, 1998

Inspect Anhydrous Ammonia Equipment Now

The fall round of anhydrous ammonia applications is about to begin, so conducting a safety check of nurse-tank hoses now will help ensure a safe season for dealers and producers alike, says an agricultural engineer at North Dakota State University.

"Make your initial safety inspections now, and be thorough, because after the rush has started it is more difficult to find time," says George Maher, extension ag safety specialist at NDSU.

Nurse-tank hoses actually require frequent inspection in order to ensure safety throughout the season. Maher says these inspections can reveal problems such as cuts, soft spots, blisters, slippage of fittings at hose ends, and kinks or flat spots.

The life span of hose material used for anhydrous ammonia equipment is regulated by law, which sets strict limits. For example, hose made with a stainless steel braid is legal for six years, while that containing a nylon/kevlar braid is legal for only four years and hose with rayon braid, for no more than two years. No other types of hose materials are acceptable, under law.

"Always check the hose dates on the nurse tanks and keep the hoses up to date," says Maher.

Hose with an outside diameter larger than a half-inch must carry an "Anhydrous Ammonia" label, show the manufacturer's name or trademark, the year of manufacture, and the maximum working pressure.

"Without the proper information on the label, a user cannot know if the hose is safe for anhydrous applications," says Maher. "Also, watch for unsafe repairs. Never use fittings that contain iron, copper or zinc. These metals are easily corroded by anhydrous ammonia and are not legal."

For more information on safety issues relating to anhydrous ammonia applications, refer to "Anhydrous Ammonia: Managing the Risks" (AE-1149), a new publication from the NDSU Extension Service available through your county office. Or contact Maher at (701) 231-8288.

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Source: George Maher (701) 231-8288

Editor: Dean Hulse (701) 231-6136