Ask X3What does 49 CFR 178.273 (Approval of Specification UN portable tanks) require?
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As an Ask X3 fleet-compliance assistant, here is what 49 CFR 178.273 requires based strictly on the provided regulation text:
* For Tank Owners or Manufacturers (Applicants): You must apply for approval of a UN portable tank to a designated approval agency. Your application must include two complete copies of engineering drawings, calculations, and test data, the manufacturer's serial number for each tank, and a statement on whether the design was previously examined and judged unacceptable (including details of any previous nonacceptance and design modifications).
* For Manufacturers: You are responsible for complying with all design and construction specifications, ensuring your contracted approval agency and authorized inspector are qualified and competent, complying with the ASME Code and applicable subpart requirements, obtaining a DOT-designated approval agency for design, certification, and construction approval, providing a certifying statement in the manufacturer's data report, and keeping qualification records for at least 5 years (and providing copies upon request to the approval agency, owner, lessee, or DOT).
* For Approval Agencies: The agency must review your application and drawings for completeness and compliance, witness all required tests, ensure proper fabrication, determine the tank is suitable for its intended use, and retain the inspector's copy of drawings and records for as long as the tank is in service. For specific gases and toxic-by-inhalation liquids, the agency must also ensure ASME Code compliance and a "U" stamp. Upon successful completion, the agency must apply its identifying mark and date to the tank's metal identification plate, issue an approval certificate, retain a copy of the certificate, and provide notifications or written denials as required.