Interpretation Response #PI-72-054

Interpretation Response Details

Mr. Howard E. Boller
General Superintendent
Eastern Shore Natural Gas Company
P. O. Box 615
Dover, Delaware 19901

Dear Mr. Boller:

This is in response to your letter of November 13, 1972, asking at what pressure certain gas meters must be tested after repairs are made. The meters in question are iron case, aluminum case, and ductile, iron case large capacity diaphragm type meters. You state that the manufacturer has certified that the meters were shell tested in accordance with §192.359(a). This is taken to mean that the rated operating pressures for the meters are not more than 67 percent of the manufacturer's shell test pressures.

Section 192.359(c) prescribes test pressures for repaired tinned steel case meters. However, the regulations do not specify test pressures for repaired iron case, aluminum case, or ductile iron case meters (i.e., the hard case meters.) Where the manufacturer has certified that such hard case meters were shell tested when new, good operating practice would suggest that they be tested following repair to at least the pressure at which they are rated.

I trust this answers your inquiry.

Sincerely,

/signed/

Joseph C. Caldwell
Director
Office of Pipeline Safety

Regulation Sections