Interpretation Response #PI-76-031 ([Indiana Public Service Commission] [Thomas P. VanArsdel, P.E.])

Below is the interpretation response detail and a list of regulations sections applicable to this response.

Interpretation Response Details

Response Publish Date: 06/16/1976

Company Name: Indiana Public Service Commission

Individual Name: Thomas P. VanArsdel, P.E.

Location State: IN Country: US

View the Interpretation Document

Response text:

June 16, 1976

Mr. Thomas P. VanArsdel, P.E.
Director, Pipeline Safety Division
Indiana Public Service Commission
901 State Office Building
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Dear Mr. VanArsdel:

Your letter of May 10, 1976, requests the Office of Pipeline Safety Operations (OPSO) official
opinion on Dekoron Tripl-dek aluminum tubing for use in gas distribution systems.

OPSO does not approve, disapprove, or endorse proprietary items. The brochure included with
your letter indicates that Tripl-dek consists of aluminum tubing with an internal copolymer
coating and an external polyethylene jacket.

Absence of specifications for a given material in 49 CFR Part 192 does not necessarily preclude
its use provided the general requirements that are applicable to all materials are met.

The requirements of 49 CFR Part 192 apply to all pipelines regardless of material. In addition,
some sections specify specific limits for design or operating conditions of certain materials. Part
192 does not presently specify design criteria for aluminum pipe, however, such pipe would have
to be capable of meeting the general requirements and level of safety otherwise prescribed by the
regulations. Since the regulations contain no specific design or material specifications for
aluminum pipe, it would be appropriate to consider the engineering properties of aluminum and
follow design procedures similar to those required for other materials. This particular product
would be similar to plastic coated steel tubing that is being used in the gas industry. You should
also note that the external coating must comply with the requirements of Section 192.461,
External corrosion control: protective coating.

Thank you for your continued interest in pipeline safety.

Sincerely,

Cesar DeLeon
Acting Director
Office of Pipeline
Safety Operations

Regulation Sections