Ask X3What does 49 CFR 180.511 (Acceptable results of inspections and tests) require?
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According to 49 CFR 180.511, a tank car is qualified for use if it conforms to other applicable requirements and successfully passes the required inspections and tests, and you properly represent that qualification by marking the tank in accordance with § 180.515.
To pass each specific inspection and test, your tank car must meet the following criteria:
* Visual inspection: Shows no structural defects that could cause the tank to leak or fail before its next inspection and test interval.
* Structural integrity inspection and test: Shows no structural defects that could start or spread cracks and cause the tank to fail before the next interval.
* Service life shell thickness: The tank shell and heads do not show any thickness reduction below the limits allowed in § 180.509(g).
* Safety system inspection: Every thermal protection system, head puncture resistance system, coupler vertical restraint system, and discontinuity protection system (such as breakage grooves on bottom outlets and protective housings) conforms to the rules and shows no defects that would reduce reliability before the next interval.
* Lining and coating inspection: The lining or coating matches your owner's acceptance criteria.
* Leakage pressure test: All product piping, fittings, and closures show zero signs of leakage.
* Hydrostatic test (for Class 107, inner tanks of Class 115, or riveted tank cars): Shows no leakage, distortion, excessive permanent expansion, or other signs of weakness that could make the tank car unsafe to transport.
* Service equipment: The equipment conforms to the regulations and applicable provisions of Appendix D of the AAR Specifications for Tank Cars, showing no defects that could lower its reliability during the qualification interval.