Propane Terminal Electrical Design and PLC Automation

Complete electrical design for safer, smarter propane terminals.

Safely designing the electric system for a propane terminal with PLC controls is challenging, but it doesn’t have to be.

Northridge provides full-service electrical design, fabrication, and automation for propane terminals, ensuring seamless system integration, compliance, and reliability. Our prefabricated solutions eliminate the need for piecemeal electrical systems—we handle everything from control-panel fabrication to PLC programming and field-ready installations.

With over 25 years of experience in hazardous location electrical design, we provide:

  • Turnkey electrical and PLC automation for propane, NGL, and LPG terminals.
  • Certified explosion-proof control panels, built and tested before deployment.
  • Fully integrated terminal management systems with remote monitoring and control.
  • Seamless compliance with NFPA, NEC, OSHA, UL508, and CSA 22-2 286 standards.

Our pre-designed, turnkey control systems seamlessly integrate safety, automation, and compliance into one complete solution.

Home Built Electrical Systems Create Delays, Risks, and Compliance Failures

Many propane terminals struggle with outdated, manually operated, non-interlocked electrical systems, leading to operational inefficiencies, compliance risks, and high maintenance costs. Without a centralized, PLC-driven electrical design, facilities often experience:

Uncoordinated system operation – Pumps, compressors, and safety systems don’t communicate, leading to accidents and equipment damage.

Complicated installations – Manually assembling electrical components slows projects and increases installation errors.

Failed inspections and regulatory fines – Custom electrical setups often require additional engineering work to pass compliance standards.

 A well-designed PLC-controlled electrical system simplifies operations, improves safety, and ensures your terminal meets industry regulations from day one while costing the same as a do-it-yourself system.

A Smarter Approach to Propane Terminal Electrical Design

Building a safe, efficient, and compliant electrical system for a propane terminal requires deep industry expertise.

Northridge streamlines the process with expert-led electrical design and built-in compliance support, ensuring your terminal meets NFPA, OSHA, and NEC standards without delays. 

Our pre-engineered solutions and PLC controls reduce safety risks by integrating automated controls, emergency shutoffs, and gas detection. This allows you to minimize human error and operational hazards. With efficient planning and seamless mechanical and electrical integration, we help lower project costs while delivering a future-proofed terminal that supports growth and scalability.

End-to-End Terminal Planning

Comprehensive design that integrates electrical, mechanical, and safety systems for a seamless solution.

Regulatory & Compliance Expertise

Built to meet NFPA, OSHA, and local compliance requirements, ensuring faster approvals and fewer roadblocks.

Automated Systems

Reduces manual operations and human error, improving safety and operational efficiency using PLC controls for propane terminals.

Customizable for Any Size Terminal

Scalable solutions designed for midstream marketers, wholesalers, and bulk storage operators.

Efficient Execution & Short Lead Times

Streamlined planning and pre-engineered, stocked components minimize downtime, delays, and unexpected costs.

Simplified Installation & Support

Designed for quick deployment with ongoing expert assistance to ensure smooth integration.

Exactly What We Offer: Full Electrical System Integration

We handle every aspect of terminal electrical design and integration, providing a fully engineered, pre-certified solution that simplifies installation and long-term operation.

  • Design and CAD Drawings
    Full electrical design and drafting services to streamline planning, permitting, and installation.
  • Certified Control Panels
    Pre-tested and standards-compliant (UL508 / CSA 22.2 No. 286) enclosures for hazardous locations.
  • Explosion-Proof Pneumatic Control Assemblies
    Engineered to safely control propane flow, pressure, and valve sequencing in classified areas.
  • Explosion-Proof Motor Controls
    Reliable motor starters and disconnects designed to operate in hazardous environments.
  • Explosion-Proof Instrumentation
    Sensors and transmitters for pressure, temperature, and flow—built for the demands of LPG systems.
  • Explosion-Proof Control Stations
    Operator interface points with E-Stop, selector switches, and indicators, all built to code.
  • Hydrocarbon and Flame Detection Systems
    Early warning and automatic shutdown capabilities to help prevent fires and explosions.
  • Propane Tank Level Gauging
    Accurate, real-time level monitoring to prevent overfilling and product loss.
  • Explosion-Proof Indicators and Signals
    Visual and audible alerts that cut through noisy, high-traffic environments.
  • Explosion-Proof Terminal Boxes & Connectors
    Certified wiring junctions and connections for safe, code-compliant installations.

We don’t just design electrical systems—we build fully integrated automation solutions that keep propane terminals running safely and efficiently.

Advanced Features for a Safer, More Efficient Propane Terminal

Northridge’s propane terminal design incorporates cutting-edge safety and automation features to ensure smooth operations, regulatory compliance, and reduced risk. Our systems are built for hazardous environments, providing reliable control and protection where it matters most.

  • Automated Valve Sequencing
    Ensures precise, error-free loading and unloading to prevent accidents and spills.
  • Emergency Shutdown Integration
    Instant system-wide shutdown in case of leaks, fire, or other critical safety events.
  • Centralized Control Panels
    Designed for high-risk environments, meeting NFPA and OSHA safety requirements.
  • Tank-Level Monitoring and Gas Detection
    Prevents overfills, leaks, and hazardous gas buildup, ensuring compliance and safety.
  • Remote Monitoring Capabilities
    Provides real-time oversight across multiple locations, reducing the need for on-site intervention.

Our Electrical Design Process

01
End-to-End Terminal Planning

We review all your equipment and discuss your requirements.

02
Define Requirements

We discuss and recommend best practices as well as safety and productivity features that suit your needs.

03
Control-System Design

We create a custom automation and electrical plan emphasizing safety.

04
CAD Drawings

We develop detailed schematics for seamless integration.

05
Expert Fabrication

We build a central control panel,  custom explosion-proof controls, and instrumentation. We assemble all hardware into easy-to-install assemblies.

06
Assembly

Once shipped to the site, your electricians can easily connect the assemblies together using our provided drawings.

07
In-Person Training

Our team comes to you for training, offering in-depth support and knowledge for your team.

08
After Market Support

Our detailed drawings of your terminal, online visibility and inventory of parts, allow us to provide expert support and rapid response to maximize your uptime.

Why Choose Northridge for Your Propane Terminal?

Choosing the right partner for propane terminal design is critical to ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency. Northridge brings industry-specific expertise and proven solutions that eliminate common pitfalls and delays. We have built our careers helping build safer, smarter terminals with confidence. Since 1997, we have been honored by the trust of industry leaders.  We offer:

  • Specialized expertise in propane control systems,
  • Faster project execution,
  • Long-term support for operational success, and
  • Large equipment stock to minimize lead times.

A well-designed propane terminal is the key to safer operations, faster compliance approvals, and long-term efficiency.