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Final Rule Alert!

For those of you who have been following this rule since the beginning, the long-awaited arrival is complete. On July 24, 2020, the Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) in accordance with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) announced the Final Rule to allow for the bulk transportation of “Methane, refrigerated liquid” often referred to as liquefied natural gas (LNG), in rail tank cars.

To look at the original proposed rule which appeared in the October 24, 2019, Vol. 84, No. 206 of the Federal Register click HERE!

If you’re asking yourself what exactly does this mean? You’re not alone. What this Final Rule does, is allow LNG to be transported by rail in DOT-113C120W specification rail tank cars with enhanced outer tank requirements.

It will also:

1. Update the Hazardous Materials Table (HMT) for UN 1972
2. Amend 49 CFR 173.319(d)(2)– Cryogenic liquids in tank cars
3. Amend the Pressure Control Valve Setting or Relief Valve Table to reflect changes for methane in DOT-113C120W Tank cars.

If you’re wondering why now? That’s another great question. According to data, the US export of LNG saw a big boom between 2010 and 2018. The number of facilities rose 28.7%, storage and vaporization capacities increased by 21% and 23% respectively, and total liquid capacity increased by 939%. PHMSA chose now to respond as a greater demand for flexibility in modes of transportation is needed. It was evident in the petition for rulemaking (P-1697) from AAR and the special permit request to ship LNG in DOT 113C120W specification tank cars.

Need Bulk Rail Car Training?

Our DOT Bulk Rail Car Training helps you and your employees stay safe, up-to date, and informed about DOT regulations relative to shipping hazardous materials by tank car.

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