Big Inch Marine Systems — Pipeline Safety Interpretation

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Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety AdministrationOfficial agency material

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Page 1October 5, 1992 Mr. F. Lee Avery President Big Inch Marine Systems Suite 100 5650 Guhn Road Houston, TX 77040 Dear Mr. Avery: This responds to your letter of August 24, 1992. You asked if mechanical connectors are acceptable for use in the repair of underwater pipelines under 49 CFR Parts 192 and 195. Part 192 and 195 do not prohibit the use of mechanical connectors in the repair of gas, hazardous liquid, or carbon dioxide underwater pipelines. However, an operator's use of mechanical connectors is subject to applicable sections of the regulations. For gas pipelines, methods other than welding used to join pipe must comply with Subpart F of Part 192, Joining of Materials Other Than by Welding. Also, pipeline repairs must comply with ? 192.711, Transmission lines: General requirements for repair procedures; and 192.717, Transmission lines: Permanent field repair of leaks. The Part 195 regulations do not specifically address pipe joining by methods other than welding, although all repairs must meet ? 195.422, Pipeline repairs. I trust this adequately responds to your request. Sincerely, Cesar De Leon Director, Regulatory Programs Office of Pipeline Safety#

This material provides agency context. It does not replace binding regulatory text, and its legal effect depends on the underlying authority and facts.