Interpretation Response #PI-73-0113 ([Sprague Meter Company] [Mr. Howard W. Berghegger])
Below is the interpretation response detail and a list of regulations sections applicable to this response.
Interpretation Response Details
Response Publish Date:
Company Name: Sprague Meter Company
Individual Name: Mr. Howard W. Berghegger
Location State: CT Country: US
View the Interpretation Document
Response text:
July 6, 1973
Mr. Howard W. Berghegger
Manager, Technical Services
Sprague Meter Company
Bridgeport, Connecticut 06601
Dear Mr. Berghegger:
Your letter of June 21, 1973, asks whether the internal relief valve of a high pressure regulator qualifies as the pressure limiting device required by §192.197 (c) (1) of the Federal gas pipeline safety standards when the high pressure regulator is used as the first stage regulator in a two stage application.
Section 192.197 (c) (1) states in pertinent parts: “A device must be installed between the upstream regulator and the service regulator to limit the pressure on the inlet of the service regulator to 60 p.s.i.g. or less in case the upstream regulator fails to function properly. This device may be either a relief valve or an automatic shutoff…”
If a relief valve is used, §192.197 does not specify whether it is to be internal or external. The purpose of the rule is to require a certain level of overpressure protection for the inlet to the service regulator. However, it is not the intent to specify how that level is to be attained. If the internal relief valve in a first cut regulator limits the inlet pressure on the service regulator as required, then it meets the rule and an external relief valve is not required.
If we may be of further assistance in this matter, please call on us.
Sincerely,
Joseph C. Caldwell
Director
Office of pipeline safety