Ask X3What does 49 CFR 180.416 (Discharge system inspection and maintenance program for cargo tanks transporting liquefied compressed gases) require?
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As Ask X3, your fleet-compliance assistant, here is what 49 CFR 180.416 requires for operators of cargo tanks (such as MC 330, MC 331, and authorized nonspecification tanks) transporting liquefied compressed gases:
* Hose Identification: Assure that each delivery hose assembly is permanently marked with a unique identification number and maximum working pressure.
* Post-Delivery Hose Check: Visually check the deployed portion of the delivery hose assembly after each unloading.
* Monthly Inspections and Tests (when the cargo tank/hose is in service):
* Hose & Piping: Visually inspect each delivery hose assembly and the entire piping system (including fusible elements, bolts, connections, and seals) at least once each calendar month.
* Emergency Controls: Actuate all emergency discharge control devices designed to close the internal self-closing stop valve at least once each calendar month to ensure linkages operate properly.
* Valve Leakage: Check the internal self-closing stop valve in the liquid discharge opening for leakage at least once each calendar month (using a meter creep test or equivalent method).
* Monthly Records: Note each monthly inspection in a record containing the inspection date, inspector's name, hose ID number, hose manufacturer, original assembly/test date, and pass/fail results. Retain this record at your principal place of business or where the vehicle is housed/maintained until the next test of the same type is successfully completed.
* Annual Hose Leakage Test: Ensure any delivery hose assembly not permanently attached to the cargo tank motor vehicle is tested annually in accordance with § 180.407(h)(4).
* New or Repaired Hoses: Test each new and repaired delivery hose assembly at a minimum of 120% of its maximum working pressure, visually examine it while pressurized, permanently mark it with the month and year of the test upon passing, and complete/retain a detailed documentation record until the next test of the same type is successfully completed.
* Rejection Criteria: Immediately pull out of service any delivery hose assembly or cargo tank piping system that exhibits specific damage or defects (such as exposed reinforcement, kinks, bulges, leaks, loose bolts, corroded parts, or malfunctioning valves) as outlined in the regulation. Repaired hoses may only be returned to service if they pass retesting.