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Compressor Stations: Gas Detection (17.9)

Criticality: High
Progress: Addressed, Not Adequately
Score: 20
DOT Relevance: §192.736

Description of Key Area

Section 192.736 (Compressor Stations: Gas Detection) of Subpart M (Maintenance) of 49 CFR 192 states that “…each compressor building in a compressor station must have a fixed gas detection alarm system…….”

Discussion of Criticality

The gas detection system should continuously monitor the compressor building for a certain concentration of hydrogen in air. This concentration must be established. There is an ongoing discussion in the hydrogen community regarding the need to distinguish between hydrogen and other combustible gases in certain applications.

Discussion of Progress

This topic will be addressed by ASME B31.12 as part of compressor station requirements.

Recommendations

The need for hydrogen-specific sensors at compressor stations needs to be evaluated. If required, current sensor development efforts should be evaluated for applicability. Standards must be established relating to hydrogen compressor stations. These standards must be incorporated by reference into the federal code.