Criticality: High Progress: Not Addressed Score: 40 DOT Relevance: ยง192.706
Description of Key Area
Leakage surveys for
transmission lines fall under Subpart M (Maintenance) of 49 CFR 192. This
subpart lists the minimum intervals at which leak surveys on transmission lines
should be conducted.
Discussion of Criticality
Because of the increased
flammability range of hydrogen relative to natural gas, special leak surveys
are likely appropriate for hydrogen pipelines. The adequacy of current
combustible gas and hydrogen-specific detection methods and equipment need to
be assessed relative to industry leak survey practices.
Discussion of Progress
This topic will be part
of the integrity management process that will be mandatory in ASME B31.12.
Recommendations
Current work should
continue on hydrogen sensors and detectors. Standards for hydrogen transmission
line leak surveys must be established and incorporated by reference into the
federal code.
