Feds OK 10-Year Ultrasound Tests for Gas Cylinders
Published Date: 8/4/2026
Rule
Summary
This final rule removes undue regulatory burdens by adopting the provisions of U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) special permit (SP) 14175 to authorize a 10-year requalification period and the ultrasonic examination (UE) testing method for DOT specification 3A and 3AA cylinders in flammable and non-flammable, nonpoisonous gas service. This adoption reflects advances in testing technology and will relieve stakeholders of the burden of performing more frequent cylinder requalification.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
10-Year Requalification Allowed for 3A/3AA
If you own or operate DOT specification 3A or 3AA cylinders (water capacity 56.7 kg / 125 lb. or less), those cylinders may be requalified every 10 years instead of every 5 years when requalification uses ultrasonic examination (UE) or hydrostatic testing with visual inspection. The rule applies to cylinders manufactured after December 31, 1945, used for the listed nonpoisonous gases, not used for underwater breathing, and must be stamped with a five-pointed star after testing.
No Special Permit Needed; Paperwork Reduced
Holders of DOT Special Permit 14175 will no longer need that special permit to requalify DOT 3A or 3AA cylinder bundles using ultrasonic examination effective 30 days after publication (effective September 3, 2026). PHMSA estimates the change reduces annual respondents by 30, annual responses by 30, and annual burden hours by 45 (annual burden cost: $0).
Federal Rule May Preempt State Cylinder Rules
This final rule addresses requalification, inspection, and testing of cylinders and will preempt State, local, and Tribal requirements on related subjects (such as the design, manufacture, inspection, marking, maintenance, repair, or testing of packagings) if those requirements are not "substantively the same" as the Federal standard. The preemptive effect is limited to the minimum necessary to meet federal law objectives.
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