CAAR recently became aware of concerning changes to the 2014 versions of the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) codes – B620-14 and B622-14 – that govern anhydrous ammonia nurse tanks.

While these changes have been incorporated into the 2014 versions, CAAR has requested the opportunity to meet with the CSA B620 committee with the goal of reverting these changes back to the 2009 version. CAAR is working closely with retailers, Fertilizer Canada, and other industry stakeholders to gather information on the impact of these changes to present at the CSA B620 Committee Meeting on June 16 & 17, 2016.

Of particular concern are:

1. B622-14: Increased testing frequency of ASME specification tanks, which currently represent the vast majority of NH3 nurse tanks in Canada. The changes will require hydrotesting every three years (currently five years), and visual inspection annually (currently two to three years).
2. B620-14: New construction of ASME and TC51 spec pressure vessels will be discontinued.

CAAR believes these changes will have a significant and detrimental impact on retailers and farmers in the ammonia industry, and that sufficient data has not been presented to support these changes. We are currently gathering tank testing data, as well as information about how increased tank testing frequency will impact tanks, and how removal of the ASME tank spec for new tank construction will impact the cost and function of the NH3 business.

If would like to participate and have not yet been contacted by CAAR, please submit your responses to the Anhydrous Ammonia Industry Tank Testing Survey as soon as possible. CAAR will continue to gather tank testing data and feedback, and your response to Delaney Ross Burtnack is appreciated at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 204-989-9303.

Click here to download the Anhydrous Ammonia Industry Tank Testing Survey.