scope:

This publication addresses containers manufactured to generally accepted codes and standards for fuel gas vehicle (FGV) service (see Section 4) [1, 2].

Purpose

The purpose of this publication is to provide guidance for the visual inspection of these containers and to provide criteria for the acceptance or rejection (in the absence of guidance from the manufacturer) with subsequent disposal or repair as necessary. The appropriate documentation to comply with inspection requirements of NGVs and HGVs is in the following preferred order:

a) jurisdictional authority;

b) standards and specifications;

c) OEM requirements;

d) aftermarket vehicle manufacturer requirements;

e) container manufacturer requirements; and

f) this publication.

For example, if the inspector had OEM requirements and container manufacturer requirements that were different, the inspector shall follow the OEM requirements.

The continued safe use of acceptable containers and the removal from service of unsafe, damaged containers that do not pass the visual inspection criteria are important to the safety and well being of all who come into contact with natural gas vehicle (NGVs) and hydrogen gas vehicle (HGVs). This publication is directed to all who perform periodic inspections of compressed natural gas containers.

Without regulatory requirements or in lieu of vehicle manufacturer specifications, the recommended minimum visual inspection frequency is once every 3 years for the life of the container [1]. Manufacturer's recommendations, harsh or abusive conditions (as outlined in Appendix A), or federal, state, provincial/territorial, or local regulations can warrant more frequent inspections. Whatever the frequency of inspection for the fuel gas (FG) container, the inspector needs to know what to look for, how to visually inspect, and how to make the determination whether the container meets the criteria for continued safe service within its specified design life as provided on the label.