Final Rule Alert: PHMSA Amends 4-series Cylinder Requalification Periods

In response to a petition from the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), US DOT PHMSA issued a Final Rule to lengthen some requalification periods for certain DOT 4-series cylinders in non-corrosive gas service.

The Final Rule amends 49 CFR 180.209(e) and takes effect on November 30, 2020.

The Rule authorizes:

• 12-year initial and subsequent requalification periods for volumetric expansion testing; and
• A 12-year initial requalification period for proof pressure testing.

Note: The 10-year subsequent requalification period for proof pressure testing remains in effect.  

To qualify for the 12-year requalification period for volumetric expansion testing (instead of the previous 5-year period), cylinders must be:

• Made in conformance with DOT specs 4B, 4BA, 4BW, or 4E;
• Protected externally by a suitable corrosion-resistant coating;
• Exclusively used for non-corrosive gas; and
• Commercially free from corroding components.

The Final Rule appeared in the Federal Register on October 30, 2020. 

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Tags: 49 CFR 180.209, cylinders, hazardous materials, new rules