Criticality: High Progress: Not Addressed Score: 40 DOT Relevance: ยง192.723
Description of Key Area
Leakage surveys for
distribution lines fall under Subpart M (Maintenance) of 49 CFR 192. This
subpart lists the minimum intervals at which leak surveys on distribution 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 distribution systems. 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
Standards for hydrogen
distribution line leak surveys must be established and incorporated by reference
into the federal code.