Marine Loading Arms

Distribution Terminals

Refining & Petrochemical

Transport and Storage

Ferrum Energy is a leading provider of engineered solutions for fluid handling and terminal automation in the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries across Latin America and the Caribbean. With over 40 years of experience, Ferrum Energy has built a solid reputation for delivering modular, custom-engineered systems designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

As an authorized distributor of Emco Wheaton, a global leader in fluid transfer systems, Ferrum Energy offers Marine Loading Arms (MLAs) throughout its territory. Our local engineering capabilities, deep application knowledge, and access to world-class technologies allow us to offer turnkey solutions for maritime loading operations, including crude oil, refined products, LNG, and chemicals.

¿What is a Marine Loading Arm?:

Marine Loading Arms (MLAs) are articulated piping systems used to transfer fluids between onshore facilities and marine vessels such as tankers, barges, or ships. Each MLA consists of a series of pipes, swivel joints, elbows, and fittings, supported by a balancing mechanism that enables smooth, controlled movement.

Installed at the dock, MLAs connect to the ship’s manifold flange and are engineered to accommodate various vessel sizes, water level changes, and environmental conditions.

Major Components:

Inboard Arm
Outboard Arm
Triple Swivel Assembly (TSA)
Base Riser
Jetty Flange
Swivel Joints (6 degrees of freedom: translation, roll, yaw, pitch)
Balancing System

Types of Marine Loading Arms:

Depending on the operational needs and product types, Emco Wheaton offers several MLA models:

B0028: Basic configuration for canals and rivers with stable water levels; typically, manual and compact.
B0030: Standard universal arm for rivers and coastal locations; self-supporting and rigid-link pantograph-balanced.
B0300: Engineered for specialized applications, such as hazardous chemicals, LNG, and food-grade products. Capable of operating between -163°C and +400°C.
B0300 II: Advanced configuration for LNG terminals or long-reach marine applications with powered operations and mechanical load separation.

Accessories and Safety Systems:

Quick Connect Couplers (Manual or Hydraulic)
Emergency Release Systems (ERS) with Ball or Butterfly Valves
Position Monitoring and Range Alarm Systems
Remote and Automatic Lubrication Systems
Drain Connections, Purge Lines, and Vapour Return Systems
Access Ladders, Platforms, and Mechanical Supports
Electrical Heat Tracing and Anti-Corrosion Coatings

Control Systems:

MLAs can be operated manually or powered through advanced hydraulic and remote-control systems:

Engineering and Design Considerations:

Designing the right MLA requires understanding:

Jetty elevation, berthing layout, and water level variations
Environmental conditions such as waves, wind, and seismic activity
Flow rates, product characteristics, and connection sizes
Space constraints and compatibility with ship manifolds
Future expansion or automation needs

Compliance and Certifications:

Technology and services you can trust:

Ferrum Energy brings unmatched local expertise and trusted partnerships to the delivery of Marine Loading Arms and terminal solutions. With support from Emco Wheaton’s global engineering and manufacturing capabilities, we provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective fluid transfer systems.

From system selection and supply to commissioning and after-sales support, Ferrum Energy is your partner for marine transfer excellence.