CDL Tank Grade, Curves and Load Handling

Question 1

A tank vehicle is carrying a partially filled, smooth-bore (unbaffled) tank. What is the main hazard of the liquid in this tank during braking and acceleration?

Accepted Answer

The liquid surges forward and backward, which can push the vehicle

Answer

Liquid in a partly filled smooth-bore tank sloshes back and forth freely when you speed up or brake. That surge can push the vehicle in the direction the liquid is moving.

Question 2

Why must a tank vehicle driver take a curve at a lower speed than a typical straight-body truck would?

Accepted Answer

The liquid's weight raises the center of gravity, which increases rollover risk

Answer

Liquid cargo sits high and raises the vehicle's center of gravity, so a tank vehicle can roll over at speeds that would be safe for other trucks. Slow down before the curve.

Question 3

A tank vehicle driver is approaching a sharp curve on an exit ramp. What is the safest technique?

Accepted Answer

Slow to a safe speed before the curve, then drive through it smoothly

Answer

Reduce speed before the curve so you can steer through smoothly without needing to brake or accelerate abruptly. Heavy braking or acceleration in a curve can trigger rollover or loss of control.

Question 4

Which statement about baffles in a tank is correct?

Accepted Answer

Baffles reduce front-to-back surge but do not stop side-to-side movement of the liquid

Answer

Baffled tanks have walls with holes that slow the liquid's front-to-back surge. Liquid can still move from side to side, which can cause rollover.

Question 5

A tank is carrying a very heavy (dense) liquid. Why is the tank often filled only partway?

Accepted Answer

To prevent exceeding legal weight limits

Answer

Some liquids are so dense that a completely full tank would exceed legal weight limits. The tank is filled only partly to stay legal.

CDL Tank Practice Test

CDL Tank Practice Test

CDL Tank Grade, Curves and Load Handling