255.150 Passage of internal inspection devices.

(a)Except as provided in subdivision (b) of this section, each new transmission line and each pipe section, valve, fitting or other line component of a transmission line that is replaced must be designed and constructed to accommodate the passage of instrumented internal inspection devices.#

(b)This section does not apply to:#

(1)manifolds;#

(2)station piping such as at compressor stations, meter stations, or regulator stations;#

(3)piping associated with storage facilities, other than a continuous run of transmission line between a compressor station and storage facilities;#

(4)cross-overs;#

(5)sizes of pipe for which an instrumented internal inspection device is not commercially available;#

(6)transmission lines, operated in conjunction with a distribution system, which are installed in Class 4 locations;#

(7)offshore transmission lines, except transmission lines 10 3/4 inches (273 millimeters) or more in outside diameter on which construction begins after December 28, 2005, that run from platform to platform or platform to shore unless:#

(i)platform space or configuration is incompatible with launching or retrieving instrumented internal inspection devices; or#

(ii)if the design includes taps for lateral connections, the operator can demonstrate, based on investigation or experience, that there is no reasonably practical alternative under the design circumstances to the use of a tap that will obstruct the passage of instrumented internal inspection devices; and#

(8)gathering lines.#