What are typical methods for draining fuel barges and loading arms?

The typical methods for draining fuel barges and loading arms involve gravity draining or using vacuum pumps. Gravity draining utilizes the natural force of gravity to move fuel from the barge or loading arm to a lower point or storage tank. This method is often preferred due to its simplicity and effectiveness, as long as levels are appropriately managed.

Vacuum pumps are also commonly used, especially when dealing with materials that may require more controlled methods of removal. These pumps create a low-pressure environment that draws the fuel out of the system, making them particularly useful in situations where complete removal of fluids is necessary or in confined spaces where gravity draining might not be efficient.

The other methods listed are not typical for draining fuel barges. Washing and flushing are more related to cleaning processes rather than draining. Heating and cooling methods may be used for fuel management to adjust viscosity, but they do not pertain directly to draining. Pumping and transferring could theoretically relate to moving fuel, but it does not specifically address the draining mechanism as gravity drainage and vacuum pumps do.