January 1981
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The purpose of this study is to summarize the observations that have been made in conducting investigations of tank cars that have ruptured after being involved in derailments. The primary cars involved are the 112A340W or 400W (jumbo) cars containing 125 cubic meters (33,000 gallons) of liquified gas, such as ammonia or propane. The general characteristics of tank car fractures and the general fracture patterns observed in tank cars are described. Also, one specific type of fracture, the delayed fracture of a tank car due to mechanical damage is described. In addition, the results of recent research on the failure of mechanical damage defects is described.