ISSN 1725-2555

Official Journal

of the European Union

L 72

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English edition

Legislation

Volume 51
14 March 2008


Contents

 

II   Acts adopted under the EC Treaty/Euratom Treaty whose publication is not obligatory

page

 

 

ACTS ADOPTED BY BODIES CREATED BY INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

 

*

Regulation No 67 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning: I. Approval of specific equipment of motor vehicles using liquefied petroleum gases in their propulsion system; II. Approval of a vehicle fitted with specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in its propulsion system with regard to the installation of such equipment

1

 

*

Regulation No 110 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning the approval of: I. Specific components of motor vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG) in their propulsion system; II. Vehicles with regard to the installation of specific components of an approved type for the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in their propulsion system

113

EN

Acts whose titles are printed in light type are those relating to day-to-day management of agricultural matters, and are generally valid for a limited period.

The titles of all other Acts are printed in bold type and preceded by an asterisk.


II Acts adopted under the EC Treaty/Euratom Treaty whose publication is not obligatory

ACTS ADOPTED BY BODIES CREATED BY INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

14.3.2008   

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 72/1


Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect under international public law. The status and date of entry into force of this Regulation should be checked in the latest version of the UN/ECE status document TRANS/WP.29/343, available at: http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html.

Regulation No 67 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning:

I.

Approval of specific equipment of motor vehicles using liquefied petroleum gases in their propulsion system;

II.

Approval of a vehicle fitted with specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in its propulsion system with regard to the installation of such equipment

Addendum 66: Regulation No 67

Supplement 7 to the 01 series of amendments — Date of entry into force: 2 February 2007

CONTENTS

REGULATION

1.

Scope

2.

Definition and classification of components

PART I

3.

Application for approval

4.

Markings

5.

Approval

6.

Specifications regarding the various components of the LPG equipment

7.

Modifications of a type of LPG equipment and extension of approval

8.

(Not allocated)

9.

Conformity of production

10.

Penalties for non-conformity of production

11.

Transitional provisions regarding the various components of the LPG equipment

12.

Production definitely discontinued

13.

Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of administrative departments

PART II

14.

Definitions

15.

Application for approval

16.

Approval

17.

Requirements for the installation of specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in the propulsion system of a vehicle

18.

Conformity of production

19.

Penalties for non-conformity of production

20.

Modification and extension of approval of a vehicle type

21.

Production definitely discontinued

22.

Transitional provisions regarding the installation of various components of the LPG equipment and the type approval of a vehicle fitted with specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gas in its propulsion system with regard to the installation of such equipment

23.

Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests, and of administrative departments

ANNEXES

Annex 1 —

Essential characteristics of the vehicle, engine and LPG-related equipment

Annex 2A —

Arrangement of the LPG equipment type-approval mark

Annex 2B —

Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a type of LPG equipment pursuant to Regulation No 67

Annex 2C —

Arrangement of approval marks

Annex 2D —

Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of LPG systems pursuant to Regulation No 67

Annex 3 —

Provisions regarding the approval of LPG container accessories

Annex 4 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the fuel pump

Annex 5 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the LPG filter unit

Annex 6 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the pressure regulator and the vaporizer

Annex 7 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the shut-off valve, the non-return valve, the gas-tube pressure relief valve and the service coupling

Annex 8 —

Provisions regarding the approval of flexible hoses with couplings

Annex 9 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the filling unit

Annex 10 —

Provisions regarding the approval of LPG containers

Annex 11 —

Provisions regarding the approval of gas injection devices, or gas mixing pieces, or injectors and the fuel rail

Annex 12 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the gas dosage unit when not combined with the gas injection device(s)

Annex 13 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the pressure and/or temperature sensor

Annex 14 —

Provisions regarding the approval of the electronic control unit

Annex 15 —

Test procedures

Annex 16 —

Provisions regarding LPG identification mark for M2 and M3 category vehicles

Annex 17 —

Provisions regarding identification mark for service couplings

1.   SCOPE

This Regulation applies to:

Part I.

Approval of specific equipment of vehicles of category M and N (1) using liquefied petroleum gases in their propulsion system;

Part II.

Approval of vehicles of category M and N (1) fitted with specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in their propulsion system with regard to the installation of such equipment.

2.   DEFINITION AND CLASSIFICATION OF COMPONENTS

LPG components for use in vehicles shall be classified with regard to the maximum operating pressure and function, according to Figure 1.

Class 1

High pressure parts including tubes and fittings containing liquid LPG at vapour pressure or increased vapour pressure up to 3 000 kPa.

Class 2

Low pressure parts including tubes and fittings containing vaporized LPG with a maximum operating pressure below 450 kPa and over 20 kPa above atmospheric pressure.

Class 2A

Low pressure parts for a limited pressure range including tubes and fittings containing vaporized LPG with a maximum operating pressure below 120 kPa and over 20 kPa above atmospheric pressure.

Class 3

Shut-off valves and pressure relief valves, when operating in the liquid phase.

LPG components designed for a maximum operating pressure below 20 kPa above atmospheric pressure are not subjected to this Regulation.

A component can consist of several parts, each part classified in his own class with regard to maximum operating pressure and function.

Figure 1

Classification with regard to maximum operating pressure and function

Image 1

Start

Maximum operating pressure > 450 kPa

Yes

Safety valves

Yes

No

No

Maximum operating pressure < 20 kPa

Yes

No

Not subject to this regulation

Maximum operating pressure < 120 kPa

Yes

No

or

Class 2

Class 2A

Class 1

Class 3

STOP

‘Pressure’ means relative pressure versus atmospheric pressure, unless otherwise stated.

2.1.1.    ‘Service pressure’ means the settled pressure at a uniform gas temperature of 15 °C.

2.1.2.    ‘Test pressure’ means the pressure to which the component is subjected during the approval test.

2.1.3.    ‘Working pressure’ means the maximum pressure to which the component is designed to be subjected and on the basis of which its strength is determined.

2.1.4.    ‘Operating pressure’ means the pressure under normal operating conditions.

2.1.5.    ‘Maximum operating pressure’ means the maximum pressure in a component which might arise during operation.

2.1.6.    ‘Classification pressure’ means the maximum allowable operating pressure in a component according to its classification.

2.2.    ‘Specific equipment’ means:

(a)

the container,

(b)

the accessories fitted to the container,

(c)

the vaporizer/pressure regulator,

(d)

the shut-off valve,

(e)

the gas injection device or injector or gas mixing piece,

(f)

the gas dosage unit, either separate or combined with the gas injection device,

(g)

flexible hoses,

(h)

filling unit,

(i)

non-return valve,

(j)

gas-tube pressure relief valve,

(k)

filter unit,

(l)

pressure or temperature sensor,

(m)

fuel pump,

(n)

service coupling,

(o)

electronic control unit,

(p)

fuel rail,

(q)

pressure relief device;

‘Container’ means any vessel used for the storage of liquefied petroleum gas;

2.3.1.   A container can be:

(i)

a standard cylindrical container with a cylindrical shell, two dished ends either torispherical or elliptical and the required openings;

(ii)

a special container: other containers than standard cylindrical containers. The dimensional characteristics are given in Annex 10, Appendix 5;

2.3.2.    ‘All-composite container’ means a container made only of composite materials with a non metallic liner.

2.3.3.    ‘Batch of containers’ means a maximum of 200 containers of the same type produced consecutively on the same production line.

2.4.    ‘Type of container’ means containers which do not differ in respect to the following characteristics as specified in Annex 10:

(a)

the trade name(s) or trade mark(s),

(b)

the shape (cylindrical, special shape),

(c)

the openings (plate for accessories/metal ring),

(d)

the material,

(e)

the welding process (in case of metal containers),

(f)

the heat treatment (in case of metal containers),

(g)

the production line,

(h)

the nominal wall thickness,

(i)

the diameter

(j)

the height (in case of special containers)

‘Accessories fitted to the container’ means the following equipment which may be either separate or combined:

(a)

80 per cent stop valve

(b)

level indicator

(c)

pressure relief valve

(d)

remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve

(e)

fuel pump

(f)

multivalve

(g)

gas-tight housing

(h)

power supply bushing

(i)

non-return valve

(j)

pressure relief device

2.5.1.    ‘80 per cent stop valve’ means a device that limits the filling at maximum 80 per cent of the capacity of the container;

2.5.2.    ‘Level indicator’ means a device to verify the level of liquid in the container;

‘Pressure relief valve (discharge valve)’ means a device to limit the pressure build-up in the container;

2.5.3.1.    ‘Pressure relief device’ means a device aimed to protect the container from burst which can occur in case of fire, by venting the LPG contained;

2.5.4.    ‘Remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve’ means a device which allows the establishment and interruption of LPG supply to the evaporator/pressure regulator; remotely controlled means that the service valve is controlled by the electronic control unit; when the engine of the vehicle is not running the valve is closed; an excess flow valve means a device to limit the flow of LPG;

2.5.5.    ‘Fuel pump’ means a device to establish the supply of liquid LPG to the engine by increasing the pressure of the container with the fuel pump supply pressure;

2.5.6.    ‘Multivalve’ means a device consisting of all or part of the accessories mentioned in paragraphs 2.5.1. to 2.5.3. and 2.5.8.;

2.5.7.    ‘Gas-tight housing’ means a device to protect the accessories and to vent any leakages to the open air;

2.5.8.   power supply bushing (fuel pump/actuators/fuel level sensor);

2.5.9.    ‘Non-return valve’ means a device to allow the flow of liquid LPG in one direction and to prevent the flow of liquid LPG in the opposite direction;

2.6.    ‘Vaporizer’ means a device intended to vaporize LPG from a liquid to a gaseous state;

2.7.    ‘Pressure regulator’ means a device intended for reducing and regulating the pressure of liquefied petroleum gas;

2.8.    ‘Shut-off valve’ means a device to cut off the flow of LPG;

2.9.    ‘Gas-tube pressure relief valve’ means a device to prevent the pressure build up in the tubes above a pre-set value;

2.10.    ‘Gas injection device or injector or gas mixing piece’ means a device which establishes the liquid or vaporized LPG to enter the engine;

2.11.    ‘Gas dosage unit’ means a device which meters and/or distributes the gas flow to the engine and can be either combined with the gas injection device or separate.

2.12.    ‘Electronic control unit’ means a device which controls the LPG demand of the engine and cuts off automatically the power to the shut-off valves of the LPG-system in case of a broken fuel supply pipe caused by an accident, or by stalling of the engine;

2.13.    ‘Pressure or temperature sensor’ means a device which measures pressure or temperature;

2.14.    ‘LPG filter unit’ means a device which filters the LPG, the filter can be integrated in other components;

2.15.    ‘Flexible hoses’ means hoses for conveying liquefied petroleum gas in either a liquid or vapour state at various pressures from one point to another;

2.16.    ‘Filling unit’ means a device to allow filling of the container; the filling unit can be realised by integration in the 80 per cent stop valve of the container or by a remote filling unit at the outside of the vehicle;

2.17.    ‘Service coupling’ means a coupling in the fuel line between the fuel container and the engine. If a mono-fuel vehicle is out of fuel the engine can be operated by means of a service fuel container which can be coupled to the service coupling;

2.18.    ‘Fuel rail’ means a pipe or duct that connects the fuel injection devices;

2.19.    ‘Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)’ means any product essentially composed of the following hydrocarbons: propane, propene (propylene), normal butane, isobutane, isobutylene, butene (butylene) and ethane.

European Standard EN 589:1993 specifies requirements and methods of test for automotive LPG as marketed and delivered in the countries of the members of CEN (European Committee for Standardization).

PART I

APPROVAL OF SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES USING LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES IN THEIR PROPULSION SYSTEM

3.   APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

3.1.   The application for approval of specific equipment shall be submitted by the holder of the trade name or mark or by his duly accredited representative.

It shall be accompanied by the undermentioned documents in triplicate and by the following particulars:

3.2.1.   a detailed description of the type of the specific equipment (as specified in Annex 1),

3.2.2.   a drawing of the specific equipment, sufficiently detailed and on an appropriate scale,

3.2.3.   verification of compliance with the specifications prescribed in paragraph 6. of this Regulation;

3.3.   At the request of the technical service responsible for conducting approval tests, samples of the specific equipment shall be provided.

Supplementary samples shall be supplied upon request.

4.   MARKINGS

4.1.   All components submitted for approval shall bear the trade name or mark of the manufacturer and the type; and for non-metallic components also the manufacturing month and year; this marking shall be clearly legible and indelible.

4.2.   All equipment shall have a space large enough to accommodate the approval mark including the classification of the component (see Annex 2A); this space shall be shown on the drawings referred to in paragraph 3.2.2. above.

4.3.   Every container shall also bear a marking plate, welded to it, with the following data clearly legible and indelible:

(a)

a serial number;

(b)

the capacity in litres;

(c)

the marking ‘LPG’;

(d)

test pressure [kPa];

(e)

the wording: ‘maximum degree of filling: 80 %’;

(f)

year and month of approval (e.g. 99/01);

(g)

approval mark according to paragraph 5.4.

(h)

the marking ‘PUMP INSIDE’ and a marking identifying the pump when a pump is mounted in the container.

5.   APPROVAL

5.1.   If the equipment samples submitted for approval meet the requirements of paragraphs 6.1. to 6.13. of this Regulation, approval of the type of equipment shall be granted.

5.2.   An approval number shall be assigned to each type of equipment approved. Its first two digits (at present 01 corresponding to the 01 series of amendments which entered into force on 13 November 1999) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party shall not assign this alphanumeric code to another type of equipment.

5.3.   Notice of approval or of refusal or of extension of approval of an LPG equipment type/part pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 2B to this Regulation. If it concerns a container, Annex 2B — Appendix 1 shall be added.

There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in the space referred to in paragraph 4.2. above, to all equipment conforming to a type approved under this Regulation, in addition to the mark prescribed in paragraphs 4.1. and 4.3., an international approval mark consisting of:

5.4.1.   A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (2).

5.4.2.   The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 5.4.1. This approval number consists of the component type approval number which appears on the certificate completed for this type (see paragraph 5.2. and Annex 2B) preceded by two figures indicating the sequence of the latest series of amendments to this Regulation.

5.5.   The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

5.6.   Annex 2A to this Regulation gives examples of the arrangement of the aforesaid approval mark.

6.   SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF THE LPG EQUIPMENT

6.1.   General provisions

The specific equipment of vehicles using LPG in their propulsion system shall function in a correct and safe way.

The materials of the equipment which are in contact with LPG shall be compatible with it.

Those parts of equipment whose correct and safe functioning is liable to be influenced by LPG, high pressure or vibrations has to be submitted to relevant test procedures described in the annexes of this Regulation. In particular the provisions of paragraphs 6.2. to 6.13. are to be fulfilled.

The installation of LPG-equipment approved by this regulation shall comply with relevant electromagnetic compatibility (E.M.C) requirements according to Regulation No 10, 02 series of amendments, or equivalent.

6.2.   Provisions regarding containers

The LPG containers shall be type-approved pursuant to the provisions laid down in Annex 10 to this Regulation.

6.3.   Provisions regarding accessories fitted to the container

The container shall be equipped with the following accessories, which may be either separate or combined (multivalve(s)):

6.3.1.1.   80 per cent stop valve,

6.3.1.2.   level indicator,

6.3.1.3.   pressure relief valve (discharge valve),

6.3.1.4.   remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve,

6.3.2.   The container may be equipped with a gas-tight housing, if necessary.

6.3.3.   The container may be equipped with a power supply bushing for the sake of actuators/LPG fuel pump.

6.3.4.   The container may be equipped with a LPG fuel pump inside the container.

6.3.5.   The container may be equipped with a non-return valve.

6.3.6.   The container shall be equipped with a pressure relief device (PRD). Devices or functions may be approved as PRD being:

(a)

A fusible plug (temperature triggered) (fuse), or

(b)

A pressure relief valve provided that it complies to paragraph 6.15.8.3., or

(c)

A combination of the two above devices, or

(d)

Any other equivalent technical solution, provided that it ensures the same degree of performance.

6.3.7.   The accessories mentioned in paragraphs 6.3.1. to 6.3.6. above shall be type-approved pursuant to the provisions laid down in:

Annex 3 to this Regulation for accessories mentioned in paragraphs 6.3.1., 6.3.2., 6.3.3. and 6.3.6.,

Annex 4 to this Regulation for accessories mentioned in paragraph 6.3.4.,

Annex 7 to this Regulation for accessories mentioned in paragraph 6.3.5.

6.4.-6.14.   Provisions regarding other components

The other components, which are shown in Table 1, shall be type approved pursuant to the provisions laid down in the annexes which can be determined from the table.

Table 1

Paragraph

Component

Annex

6.4.

Fuel pump

4

6.5.

Vaporizer (3)

Pressure regulator (3)

6

6.6.

Shut-off valves

Non-return valves

Gas-tube pressure relief valves

Service couplings

7

6.7.

Flexible hoses

8

6.8.

Filling unit

9

6.9.

Gas injection devices/Gas mixing piece (5)

or

Injectors

11

6.10.

Gas dosage units (4)

12

6.11.

Pressure sensors

Temperature sensors

13

6.12.

Electronic control unit

14

6.13.

LPG filter units

5

6.14.

Pressure relief device

3

6.15.   General design rules regarding components

Provisions regarding the 80 per cent stop valve

6.15.1.1.   The connection between the float and the closing unit of the 80 per cent stop valve shall not be deformed under normal conditions of use.

6.15.1.2.   If the 80 per cent stop valve of the container comprises a float, the latter shall withstand an outside pressure of 4 500 kPa.

6.15.1.3.   The closing unit of the device that limits the filling at 80 per cent +0/-5 per cent of the capacity of the container, for which the 80 per cent stop valve is designed, shall withstand a pressure of 6 750 kPa. At the cut-off position, the filling rate at a differential pressure of 700 kPa shall not exceed 500 cm3/minute. The valve must be tested with all the containers on which it is intended to be fitted or the manufacturer must declare by calculation for which container types this valve is suitable.

6.15.1.4.   When the 80 per cent stop valve does not comprise any float, it shall not be possible to continue filling, after closing-off, at a rate exceeding 500 cm3/minute.

6.15.1.5.   The device shall bear a permanent marking, indicating the container-type for which it has been designed, diameter and angle, and if applicable mounting indication.

Electrical operated devices containing LPG shall, in order to prevent in case of fracture of the component electric sparks on the surface of fracture:

(i)

be insulated in a manner that no current is lead through LPG containing parts

(ii)

have the electrical system of the device isolated:

from the body

from the container for the fuel pump.

Isolation resistance shall be > 10 MΩ.

6.15.2.1.   The electrical connections inside the boot and passengers compartment shall comply with insulation class IP 40 according to IEC 529.

6.15.2.2   All other electrical connections shall comply with insulation class IP 54 according to IEC 529.

6.15.2.3.   The power supply bushing (fuel pump/actuators/fuel level sensor) to establish an isolated and tight electrical connection shall be of a hermetic sealed type.

Specific provisions on valves activated by an electric/external (hydraulic, pneumatic) power

6.15.3.1.   In the case of valves activated by an electric/external power (e.g. 80 per cent stop valve, service valve, shut-off valves, non return valves, gas tube pressure relief valve, service coupling), those valves shall be in ‘closed’ position when their power is switched off.

6.15.3.2.   The power of the fuel pump shall be switched off when the electronic control unit becomes defective or loses power.

Heat exchange medium (compatibility and pressure requirements)

6.15.4.1.   The materials constituting a device which are in contact with the heat exchange medium of a device when operating shall be compatible with that fluid and shall be designed to withstand a pressure of 200 kPa of the heat exchange medium. The material shall meet the prescriptions laid down in Annex 15, paragraph 17.

6.15.4.2.   The compartment containing the heat exchange medium of the vaporizer/pressure regulator shall be leak proof at a pressure of 200 kPa.

6.15.5.   A component consisting of both high pressure and low pressure parts shall be so designed to prevent a pressure build up in the low pressure part above 2,25 times the maximum working pressure for which it has been tested. Components connected directly to the tank pressure shall be designed for the classification pressure of 3 000 kPa. Venting to the motor compartment or outside of the vehicle is not allowed.

Specific provisions to prevent any gas flow

6.15.6.1.   The pump shall be so designed that the outlet pressure never exceeds 3 000 kPa, when there is e.g. blocking of the tubing or not opening of a shut-off valve. This can be realized by switching off the pump or by recirculating to the container.

6.15.6.2.   The pressure regulator/vaporizer shall be so designed as to prevent any gas flow when the regulator/vaporizer unit is supplied with LPG at a pressure ≤ 4 500 kPa when the regulator is not operating.

6.15.7.   Provisions regarding the gas tube relief valve

6.15.7.1.   The gas-tube pressure relief valve shall be so designed as to open at a pressure of 3 200 ± 100 kPa.

6.15.7.2.   The gas-tube pressure relief valve shall not have internal leakage up to 3 000 kPa.

Provisions regarding the pressure relief valve (discharge valve)

6.15.8.1.   The pressure relief valve shall be mounted inside the container or on the container, in the area where the fuel is in gaseous state.

6.15.8.2.   The pressure relief valve shall be so designed as to open at a pressure of 2 700 ± 100 kPa.

6.15.8.3.   The flow capacity of the pressure relief valve, determined with compressed air at a pressure which is 20 per cent higher than the normal operating-pressure must be at least

Q ≥ 10,66 · A0,82

in which:

Q

=

flow of air in standard m3/min (100 kPa absolute and temperature of 15 °C)

A

=

exterior surface of the container in m2.

The flow test results must be corrected to standard conditions:

air pressure of 100 kPa absolute and temperature of 15 °C.

When the pressure relief valve is considered as a pressure relief device, the flow shall be at least 17,7 standard m3/min.

6.15.8.4.   The pressure relief valve shall not have internal leakage up to 2 600 kPa.

6.15.8.5.   The pressure relief device (fuse) shall be designed to open at a temperature of 120 ± 10 °C.

6.15.8.6.   The pressure relief device (fuse) shall be designed to have, when opened, a flow capacity of:

Q ≥ 2,73 · A

in which:

Q

=

flow of air in standard m3/min (100 kPa absolute and temperature of 15 °C)

A

=

exterior surface of the container in m2.

The flow test must be carried out at an upstream air pressure of 200 kPa absolute, and at temperature of 15 °C.

The flow test results must be corrected to standard conditions:

air pressure of 100 kPa absolute, and temperature of 15 °C.

6.15.8.7.   The pressure relief device shall be mounted on the container in the gaseous zone.

6.15.8.8.   The pressure relief device shall be fitted to the container in such a manner that it can discharge into the gas tight housing, when its presence is prescribed.

6.15.8.9.   The pressure relief device (fuse) shall be tested according to the provisions described in Annex 3, paragraph 7.

6.15.9.   Power dissipation of the fuel pump

At minimum fuel level whereby the engine is still operating the heat build-up by the fuel pump(s) should never cause the pressure relief valve to open.

Provisions regarding the filling unit

6.15.10.1.   The filling unit shall be equipped with at least one soft-seated non-return valve, and it shall not be dismountable by design.

6.15.10.2.   The filling unit shall be protected against contamination.

6.15.10.3.   The design and dimensions of the connecting area of the filling unit must comply with those in the figures in Annex 9.

The filling unit shown in Figure 5 is only applicable for motor vehicles of categories M2, M3, N2, N3 and M1 having a maximum total mass > 3 500 kg (6).

6.15.10.4.   The filling unit shown in Figure 4 may also apply for motor vehicles of categories M2, M3, N2, N3 and M1 having a maximum total mass > 3 500 kg (6).

6.15.10.5.   The outside filling unit is connected to the container by a hose or pipe.

Specific provisions regarding the light vehicle Euro filling unit (Annex 9 — Figure 3):

6.15.10.6.1.   The dead volume between the front sealing surface and the front of the non-return valve shall not exceed 0,1 cm3;

6.15.10.6.2.   The flow through the connector at a pressure difference of 30 kPa shall be at least 60 litres/min, if tested with water.

Specific provisions regarding the heavy-duty vehicle Euro filling unit (Annex 9 — Figure 5):

6.15.10.7.1.   The dead volume between the front sealing surface and the front of the non-return valve shall not exceed 0,5 cm3;

6.15.10.7.2.   The flow through the filling unit, with the non-return valve mechanically opened, at a pressure difference of 50 kPa shall be at least 200 litres/min, when tested with water.

6.15.10.7.3.   The Euro filling unit shall comply with the impact test as described in Annex 9, paragraph 7.4.

Provisions regarding the level indicator

6.15.11.1.   The device to verify the level of liquid in the container shall be of an indirect type (for example magnetic) between the inside and outside of the container. If the device to verify the level of liquid in the container is of a direct type, the electric power connections should meet IP54 specifications according to IEC EN 60529:1997-06.

6.15.11.2.   If the level indicator of the container comprises a float, the latter shall withstand an outside pressure of 3 000 kPa.

Provisions regarding the gas tight housing of the container.

6.15.12.1.   The gas-tight housing outlet shall have a total free-cross-section of at least 450 mm2.

6.15.12.2.   The gas-tight housing shall be leak-proof at a pressure of 10 kPa with the aperture(s) closed off, maximum allowed leak rate of 100 cm3/h vapour and show no permanent deformation.

6.15.12.3.   The gas-tight housing shall be designed to withstand a pressure of 50 kPa.

Provisions regarding the remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve.

Provisions regarding the service valve

6.15.13.1.1.   In case the service valve is combined with a LPG fuel supply pump, identification of the pump must be realised by the marking ‘PUMP INSIDE’ and the identification of the pump either on the marking plate of the LPG container or on the multivalve if present. Electrical connections inside the LPG container shall comply with insulation class IP 40 according to IEC 529.

6.15.13.1.2.   The service valve shall withstand a pressure of 6 750 kPa in the open and closed position.

6.15.13.1.3.   The service valve shall not, at the shut-off position, allow an internal leak rate in the flow direction. There may be leak in the back flow direction.

Provisions regarding the excess flow valve

6.15.13.2.1.   The excess flow valve shall be mounted inside the container.

6.15.13.2.2.   The excess flow valve shall be designed with a bypass to allow for equalization of pressures.

6.15.13.2.3.   The excess flow valve shall cut off at a pressure difference over the valve of 90 kPa. At this pressure difference the flow shall not exceed 8 000 cm3/min.

6.15.13.2.4.   When the excess flow valve is at cut-off position, the flow through the by-pass shall not exceed 500 cm3/min. at a differential pressure of 700 kPa.

7.   MODIFICATIONS OF A TYPE OF LPG EQUIPMENT AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL

Every modification of a type of LPG equipment shall be notified to the administrative department which granted the type approval. The department may then either:

7.1.1.   consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect, and that the equipment still complies with the requirements; or

7.1.2.   consider whether retesting will be partial or complete.

7.2.   Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the alterations, shall be communicated by the procedure specified in paragraph 5.3. above to the Parties to the Agreement which apply this Regulation.

7.3.   The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number to each communication form drawn up for such an extension.

8.   (Not allocated)

9.   CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, Appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2), with the following requirements:

9.1.   All equipment approved under this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the type approved by meeting the requirements of paragraph 6. above.

9.2.   In order to verify that the requirements of paragraph 9.1. are met, suitable controls of production shall be carried out.

9.3.   The minimum requirements for conformity of production control tests set forth in Annexes 8, 10 and 15 of this Regulation shall be complied with.

9.4.   The authority which has granted type approval may at any time verify the conformity control methods applied in each production facility. The normal frequency of these verifications shall be once every year.

9.5.   Moreover, each container shall be tested at a minimum pressure of 3 000 kPa in conformity with the prescriptions of paragraph 2.3. of Annex 10 to this Regulation.

9.6.   Every hose assembly which is applied in the high pressure class (Class 1) according to the classification as prescribed in paragraph 2. of this Regulation, shall, during half a minute, be subjected to a test with gas under a pressure of 3 000 kPa.

9.7.   For welded containers at least 1 per 200 containers and one of the remaining number has to be subjected to the radiographic examination according to Annex 10, paragraph 2.4.1.

9.8.   During production 1 of 200 containers and 1 of the remaining number has to be subjected to the above-mentioned mechanical tests as described in Annex 10, paragraph 2.1.2.

10.   PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

10.1.   The approval granted in respect of a type of equipment pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements laid down in paragraph 9. above are not complied with.

10.2.   If a Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2B to this Regulation.

11.   TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS REGARDING THE VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF THE LPG EQUIPMENT

11.1.   As from the official date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant ECE approval under this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

11.2.   As from 3 months after the official date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall grant ECE approvals only if the type of component to be approved meets the requirements of this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

11.3.   No Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse a type of component approved to the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation.

11.4.   Until 12 months after the date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse a type of component approved to this Regulation in its original form.

11.5.   Upon the expiration of a period of 12 months after the date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation may refuse the sale of a type of component which does not meet the requirements of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, unless the component is intended as a replacement for fitting on vehicles in use.

12.   PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of equipment approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication, that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2B to this Regulation.

13.   NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS

The Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.

PART II

APPROVAL OF A VEHICLE FITTED WITH SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT FOR THE USE OF LIQUIFIED PETROLEUM GASES IN ITS PROPULSION SYSTEM WITH REGARD TO THE INSTALLATION OF SUCH EQUIPMENT

14.   DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of Part II of this Regulation:

14.1.1.    ‘Approval of a vehicle’ means the approval of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of its specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in its propulsion system;

‘Vehicle type’ means a vehicle or a family of vehicles fitted with specific equipment for the use of LPG in its propulsion system, which do not differ with respect to the following conditions:

14.1.2.1.   the manufacturer;

14.1.2.2.   the type designation established by the manufacturer;

the essential aspects of design and construction;

14.1.2.3.1.   chassis/floor pan (obvious and fundamental differences);

14.1.2.3.2.   installation of the LPG equipment (obvious and fundamental differences).

15.   APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

15.1.   The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in its propulsion system shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.

15.2.   It shall be accompanied by the undermentioned documents in triplicate: description of the vehicle comprising all the relevant particulars referred to in Annex 1 to this Regulation.

15.3.   A vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved, shall be submitted to the technical service conducting the approval tests.

16.   APPROVAL

16.1.   If the vehicle submitted for approval pursuant to this Regulation is provided with all the necessary specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in its propulsion system and meets the requirements of paragraph 17. below, approval of that vehicle type shall be granted.

16.2.   An approval number shall be assigned to each type of vehicle approved. Its first two digits shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval.

16.3.   Notice of approval or of refusal or of extension of approval of an LPG vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model in Annex 2D to this Regulation.

There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in a readily accessible space specified on the approval form referred to in paragraph 16.3. above, to every vehicle type approved under this Regulation an international approval mark consisting of:

16.4.1.   A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (7).

16.4.2.   The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 16.4.1.

16.5.   If the vehicle conforms to a vehicle approved, under one or more other Regulations annexed to the Agreement, in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation, the symbol prescribed in paragraph 16.4.1. need not be repeated; in such case, the Regulation and approval numbers and the additional symbols of all the Regulations under which approval has been granted in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation shall be placed in vertical columns to the right of the symbol prescribed in paragraph 16.4.1.

16.6.   The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

16.7.   The approval mark shall be placed close to or on the vehicle data plate.

16.8.   Annex 2C to this Regulation gives examples of the arrangement of the aforesaid approval mark.

17.   REQUIREMENTS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT FOR THE USE OF LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GASES IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE

17.1.   General

17.1.1.   The LPG equipment as installed in the vehicle shall function in such a manner that the maximum operating pressure for which it has been designed and approved cannot be exceeded.

17.1.2.   All parts of the system shall be type approved for individual parts pursuant to Part I of this Regulation.

17.1.3.   The materials used in the system shall be suitable for use with LPG.

17.1.4.   All parts of the system shall be fastened in a proper way.

17.1.5.   The LPG-system shall show no leaks.

17.1.6.   The LPG-system shall be installed such that is has the best possible protection against damage, such as damage due to moving vehicle components, collision, grit or due to the loading or unloading of the vehicle or the shifting of those loads.

No appliances shall be connected to the LPG-system other than those strictly required for the proper operation of the engine of the motor vehicle.

17.1.7.1.   Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 17.1.7., motor vehicles of categories M2, M3, N2, N3 and M1 having a maximum total mass > 3 500 kg may be fitted with a heating system to heat the passenger compartment which is connected to the LPG-system.

17.1.7.2.   The heating system referred to in paragraph 17.1.7.1. shall be permitted if, in the view of the technical services responsible for conducting type approval, the heating system is adequately protected and the required operation of the normal LPG-system is not affected.

17.1.7.3.   Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 17.1.7., a mono-fuel vehicle without limp-home system may be equipped with a service coupling in the LPG-system.

17.1.7.4.   The service coupling referred to in paragraph 17.1.7.3. shall be permitted if, in the view of the technical services responsible for conducting type approval, the service coupling is adequately protected and the required operation of the normal LPG-system is not affected. The service coupling must be combined with a separate gas-tight non-return valve whereby it is only possible to operate the engine.

17.1.7.5.   Mono-fuel vehicles installed with a service coupling shall carry a sticker near the service coupling as specified in Annex 17.

Identification of LPG-fuelled M2 and M3 category vehicles.

17.1.8.1.   Vehicles of category M2 and M3 shall carry a plate as specified in Annex 16.

17.1.8.2.   The plate shall be installed on the front and rear of the M2 or M3 category vehicle and on the outside of the doors on the left-hand side for the right hand drive vehicles and on the right-hand side for the left hand drive vehicles.

17.2.   Further requirements

17.2.1.   No component of the LPG-system, including any protective materials which form part of such components, shall project beyond the external surface of the vehicle, with the exception of the filling unit if this does not project more than 10 mm beyond the nominal line of the body panel.

17.2.2.   With the exception of the LPG fuel container, in no cross section of the vehicle any component of the LPG-system, including any protective material which forms part of such components, may extend beyond the lower edge of the vehicle unless another part of the vehicle, within a radius of 150 mm is situated lower.

17.2.3.   No component of the LPG-system shall be located within 100 mm of the exhaust or similar heat source, unless such components are adequately shielded against heat.

17.3   The LPG-system

17.3.1.   An LPG-system shall contain at least the following components:

17.3.1.1.   fuel container;

17.3.1.2.   80 per cent stop valve;

17.3.1.3.   level indicator;

17.3.1.4.   pressure relief valve;

17.3.1.5.   remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve;

17.3.1.6.   pressure regulator and vaporizer, which may be combined;

17.3.1.7.   remotely controlled shut-off valve;

17.3.1.8.   filling unit;

17.3.1.9.   gas tubes and hoses;

17.3.1.10.   gas-carrying connections between the LPG-system components;

17.3.1.11.   injector or gas injection device or gas mixing piece;

17.3.1.12.   electronic control unit;

17.3.1.13.   pressure relief device (fuse).

17.3.2.   The system may also include the following components:

17.3.2.1.   gas-tight housing, covering the accessories fitted to the fuel container;

17.3.2.2.   non-return valve;

17.3.2.3.   gas tube pressure relief valve;

17.3.2.4.   gas dosage unit;

17.3.2.5.   LPG filter unit;

17.3.2.6.   pressure or temperature sensor;

17.3.2.7.   LPG fuel pump;

17.3.2.8.   power supply bushing for the container (actuators/fuel pump/fuel level sensor);

17.3.2.9.   service coupling (mono-fuel vehicles only & no limp-home system);

17.3.2.10.   fuel selection system and electrical system;

17.3.2.11.   fuel rail.

17.3.3.   The container fittings referred to in paragraphs 17.3.1.2. to 17.3.1.5. may be combined.

17.3.4.   The remotely controlled shut-off valve referred to in paragraph 17.3.1.7. may be combined with the pressure regulator/vaporizer.

17.3.5.   Additional components required for the effective operation of the engine may be installed in that part of the LPG-system where the pressure is less than 20 kPa.

17.4.   Installation of the fuel container

17.4.1.   The fuel container shall be permanently installed in the vehicle and shall not be installed in the engine compartment.

17.4.2.   The fuel container shall be installed in the correct position, according to the instructions from the container manufacturer.

17.4.3.   The fuel container shall be installed such that there is no metal to metal contact, other than at the permanent fixing points of the container.

17.4.4.   The fuel container shall have permanent fixing points to secure it to the motor vehicle or the container shall be secured to the motor vehicle by a container frame and container straps.

When the vehicle is ready for use the fuel container shall not be less than 200 mm above the road surface.

17.4.5.1.   The provisions of paragraph 17.4.5. shall not apply if the container is adequately protected, at the front and the sides and no part of the container is located lower than this protective structure.

17.4.6.   The fuel container(s) must be mounted and fixed so that the following accelerations can be absorbed (without damage occurring) when the containers are full:

Vehicles of categories M1 and N1:

(a)

20 g in the direction of travel

(b)

8 g horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel

Vehicles of categories M2 and N2:

(a)

10 g in the direction of travel

(b)

5 g horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel

Vehicles of categories M3 and N3:

(a)

6,6 g in the direction of travel

(b)

5 g horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel

A calculation method can be used instead of practical testing if its equivalence can be demonstrated by the applicant for approval to the satisfaction of the technical service.

17.5.   Further requirements to the fuel container

17.5.1.   If more than one LPG container is connected to a single delivery tube each container shall be fitted with a non-return valve installed downstream of the remotely controlled service valve and a tube pressure relief valve shall be installed in the delivery tube, downstream of the non-return valve. An adequate filter system has to be placed upstream of the non-return valve(s) to prevent fouling of the non-return valve(s).

17.5.2.   A non-return valve and tube pressure relief valve shall not be required if the backflow pressure of the remotely controlled service valve in the closed position exceeds 500 kPa.

In that case the control of the remotely controlled service valves shall be constructed such that it is impossible for more than one remotely controlled valve to be open at any time. The overlap time to allow switching is limited to two minutes.

17.6.   Accessories to the fuel container

17.6.1.   Remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve on the container

17.6.1.1.   The remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve shall be installed directly on the fuel container, without any intervening fittings.

17.6.1.2.   The remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve shall be controlled such that it is automatically closed when the engine is not running, irrespective of the position of the ignition switch, and shall remain closed as long as the engine is not running.

17.6.2.   Spring-loaded pressure relief valve in the container

17.6.2.1.   The spring-loaded pressure relief valve shall be installed in the fuel container in such a manner that it is connected to the vapour space and can discharge to the surrounding atmosphere. The spring-loaded pressure relief valve may discharge into the gas-tight housing if that gas-tight housing fulfils the requirements of paragraph 17.6.5.

17.6.3.   80 per cent stop valve

17.6.3.1.   The automatic filling level limiter shall be suitable for the fuel container it is fitted to and shall be installed in the appropriate position to ensure that the container cannot be filled to more than 80 per cent.

17.6.4.   Level indicator

17.6.4.1.   The level indicator shall be suitable for the fuel container it is fitted to and shall be installed in the appropriate position.

17.6.5.   Gas-tight housing on the container

17.6.5.1.   A gas-tight housing over the container fittings, which fulfils the requirements of paragraphs 17.6.5.2. to 17.6.5.5. shall be fitted to the fuel container, unless the container is installed outside the vehicle and the container fittings are protected against dirt and water.

17.6.5.2.   The gas-tight housing shall be in open connection with the atmosphere, where necessary through a connecting hose and a lead-through.

17.6.5.3.   The ventilation opening of the gas-tight housing shall point downwards at the point of exit from the motor vehicle. However, it shall not discharge into a wheel arch, nor shall it be aimed at a heat source such as the exhaust.

17.6.5.4.   Any connecting hose and lead-through in the bottom of the bodywork of the motor vehicle for ventilation of the gas-tight housing shall have a minimum clear opening of 450 mm2. If a gas tube, other tube or any electrical wiring is installed in the connecting hose and lead-through, the clear opening shall also be at least 450 mm2.

17.6.5.5.   The gas-tight housing and connecting hoses shall be gas-tight at a pressure of 10 kPa with the apertures closed off, and show no permanent deformation, with a maximum allowed leak rate of 100 cm3/h.

17.6.5.6.   The connecting hose shall be secured in a proper way to the gas-tight housing and the lead-through to ensure that a gas-tight joint is formed.

17.7.   Gas tubes and gas hoses

17.7.1.   Gas tubes shall be made of seamless material: either copper or stainless steel or steel with corrosion-resistant coating.

17.7.2.   If seamless copper is used the tube shall be protected by a rubber or plastic sleeve.

17.7.3.   The outer diameter of gas tubes made of copper shall not exceed 12 mm with a wall thickness of at least 0,8 mm, gas tubes from steel and stainless steel shall not exceed 25 mm with, for gas services, an appropriate wall thickness.

17.7.4.   The gas tube may be made of a non-metallic material if the tube fulfils the requirements of this Regulation, paragraph 6.7.

17.7.5.   The gas tube may be replaced by a gas hose if this hose fulfils the requirement of this Regulation, paragraph 6.7.

17.7.6.   Gas tubes, other than non-metallic gas tubes, shall be secured such that they shall not be subjected to vibration or stresses.

17.7.7.   Gas hoses and non-metallic gas tubes shall be secured such that they shall not be subjected to stresses.

17.7.8.   At the fixing point the gas tube or hose shall be fitted with a protective material.

17.7.9.   Gas tubes or hoses shall not be located at jacking points.

17.7.10.   At passages the gas tubes or hoses, whether or not fitted with a protective sleeve, shall be fitted with protective material.

17.8.   Gas connections between the components of the LPG-system

17.8.1.   Soldered or welded joints and bite-type compression joints are not permitted.

17.8.2.   Gas tubes shall only be connected by compatible fittings with regard to corrosion.

17.8.3.   Stainless steel tubes shall only be joined by stainless steel fittings.

17.8.4.   Distributing-blocks shall be made of corrosion-resistant material.

17.8.5.   Gas tubes shall be connected by appropriate joints, for example, two-part compression joints in steel tubes and joints with olives tapered on both sides or two flanges in copper tubes. Gas tubes shall be connected with appropriate connections. Under no circumstances couplings may be used whereby the tube will be damaged. The burst pressure of the mounted couplings shall be the same or higher as specified for the tube.

17.8.6.   The number of joints shall be limited to a minimum.

17.8.7.   Any joints shall be made in locations where access is possible for inspection.

In a passenger compartment or enclosed luggage compartment the gas tube or hose shall be no longer than reasonably required; this provision is fulfilled when the gas tube or hose does not extend further than from the fuel container to the side of vehicle.

17.8.8.1.   There shall be no gas-conveying connections in the passenger compartment or enclosed luggage compartment with the exception of:

(i)

the connections on the gas-tight housing; and

(ii)

the connection between the gas tube or hose and the filling unit if this connection is fitted with a sleeve which is resistant against LPG and any leaking gas will be discharged directly into the atmosphere.

17.8.8.2.   The provisions of paragraph 17.8.8. and paragraph 17.8.8.1. shall not apply for M2 or M3 category vehicles if the gas tubes or hoses and connections are fitted with a sleeve which is resistant against LPG and which has an open connection to the atmosphere. The open end of the sleeve or ducting shall be situated at the lowest point.

17.9.   Remotely controlled shut-off valve

17.9.1.   A remotely controlled shut-off valve shall be installed in the gas tube from the LPG container to the pressure regulator/vaporizer, as close as possible to the pressure regulator/vaporizer.

17.9.2.   The remotely controlled shut-off valve may be incorporated into the pressure regulator/vaporizer.

17.9.3.   Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 17.9.1., the remotely controlled shut-off valve may be installed at a location in the engine bay specified by the manufacturer of the LPG-system if a fuel return system is provided between the pressure regulator and the LPG container.

17.9.4.   The remotely controlled shut-off valve shall be installed such that the fuel supply is cut off when the engine is not running or, if the vehicle is also equipped with another fuel system, when the other fuel is selected. A delay of 2 seconds is permitted for diagnostic purposes.

17.10.   Filling unit

17.10.1.   The filling unit shall be secured against rotation and shall be protected against dirt and water.

17.10.2.   When the LPG container is installed in the passenger compartment or an enclosed (luggage) compartment, the filling unit shall be located at the outside of the vehicle.

17.11.   Fuel selection system and electrical installation

The electrical components of the LPG-system shall be protected against overloads and at least one separate fuse shall be provided in the supply cable.

17.11.1.1.   The fuse shall be installed in a known location where it can be reached without the use of tools.

17.11.2.   The electrical power to LPG-system components which also carry gas may not be conducted by a gas tube.

17.11.3.   All electrical components installed in a part of the LPG-system where the pressure exceeds 20 kPa shall be connected and insulated in a manner that no current is led through LPG containing parts.

17.11.4.   Electrical cables shall be adequately protected against damage. The electrical connections inside the boot and passengers compartment shall comply with insulation class IP 40 according to IEC 529. All other electrical connections shall comply with insulation class IP 54 according to IEC 529.

17.11.5.   Vehicles with more than one fuel system shall have a fuel selection system to ensure that no more than one fuel is supplied to the engine at any time. A short overlap time to allow switching-over is allowed.

17.11.6.   Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 17.11.5. in the case of pilot operated dual fuel engines, it is permitted to supply more than one fuel.

17.11.7.   The electrical connections and components in the gas-tight housing shall be constructed such that no sparks are generated.

17.12.   Pressure relief device

17.12.1.   The pressure relief device shall be fitted to the fuel container(s) in such a manner that it can discharge into the gas tight housing, when its presence is prescribed, if that gas tight housing fulfils the requirements of paragraph 17.6.5.

18.   CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, Appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2) with the following requirements:

18.1.   All vehicles approved under this Regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the type approved by meeting the requirements of paragraph 17. above.

18.2.   In order to verify that the requirements of paragraph 18.1. are met, suitable controls of the production shall be carried out.

18.3.   The authority which has granted type approval may at any time verify the conformity control methods applied in each production facility. The normal frequency of these verifications shall be once every year.

19.   PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

19.1.   The approval granted in respect of a type of vehicle pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements laid down in paragraph 18. above are not complied with.

19.2.   If a Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2D to this Regulation.

20.   MODIFICATION AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL OF A VEHICLE TYPE

Every modification of the installation of the specific equipment for the use of liquefied petroleum gases in the propulsion system of the vehicle shall be notified to the administrative department which approved the vehicle type. The department may then either:

20.1.1.   Consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciably adverse effect and that in any case the vehicle still complies with the requirements; or

20.1.2.   Require a further test report from the technical service responsible for conducting the tests.

20.2.   Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the alteration, shall be communicated by the procedure specified in paragraph 16.3. above to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation.

20.3.   The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number for such an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2D to this Regulation.

21.   PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of vehicle approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication, that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in Annex 2D to this Regulation.

22.   TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS REGARDING THE INSTALLATION OF VARIOUS COMPONENTS OF THE LPG EQUIPMENT AND THE TYPE APPROVAL OF A VEHICLE FITTED WITH SPECIFIC EQUIPMENT FOR THE USE OF LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS IN ITS PROPULSION SYSTEM WITH REGARD TO THE INSTALLATION OF SUCH EQUIPMENT

22.1.   As from the official date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall refuse to grant ECE approval under this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

22.2.   As from the official date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, no Contracting Party applying this Regulation shall prohibit the fitting on a vehicle and the use as first equipment of a component approved under this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

22.3.   During the period of 12 months after the date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation may allow the use of as first equipment of a type of component approved to this Regulation in its original form, when fitted on a vehicle transformed for LPG propulsion.

22.4.   Upon the expiration of a period of 12 months after the date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation shall prohibit the use as first equipment of a component which does not meet the requirements of this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments, when fitted on a vehicle transformed for LPG propulsion.

22.5.   Upon the expiration of a period of 12 months after the date of entry into force of the 01 series of amendments to this Regulation, Contracting Parties applying this Regulation may refuse first National Registration (first entry into service) of a vehicle which does not meet the requirements of this Regulation as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

23.   NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS

The Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.


(1)  As defined in Annex 7 to the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3), (document TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.1/Amend.2 as last amended by Amend.4).

(2)  1 for Germany, 2 for France, 3 for Italy, 4 for the Netherlands, 5 for Sweden, 6 for Belgium, 7 for Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Serbia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for Austria, 13 for Luxembourg, 14 for Switzerland, 15 (vacant), 16 for Norway, 17 for Finland, 18 for Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal, 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 24 for Ireland, 25 for Croatia, 26 for Slovenia, 27 for Slovakia, 28 for Belarus, 29 for Estonia, 30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgaria, 35 (vacant), 36 for Lithuania, 37 for Turkey, 38 (vacant), 39 for Azerbaijan, 40 for The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, 41 (vacant), 42 for the European Community (Approvals are granted by its Member States using their respective ECE symbol), 43 for Japan, 44 (vacant), 45 for Australia, 46 for Ukraine, 47 for South Africa, 48 for New Zealand, 49 for Cyprus, 50 for Malta 51 for the Republic of Korea, 52 for Malaysia, 53 for Thailand, 54 and 55 (vacant) and 56 for Montenegro. Subsequent numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they ratify or accede to the Agreement Concerning the Adoption of Uniform Technical Prescriptions for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/or be Used on Wheeled Vehicles and the Conditions for Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals Granted on the Basis of these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus assigned shall be communicated by the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the Contracting Parties to the Agreement.

(3)  Either combined or separate

(4)  Only applicable when the gas dosage actuator is not integrated in the gas injection device.

(5)  Applicable only when the operating pressure of the gas mixing piece exceeds 20 kPa (Class 2).

(6)  As defined in the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3), Annex 7 (document TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.1/Amend.2, as last amended by Amend.4).

(7)  See footnote 2


ANNEX 1

ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VEHICLE, ENGINE AND LPG-RELATED EQUIPMENT

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ANNEX 2A

ARRANGEMENT OF THE LPG EQUIPMENT TYPE-APPROVAL MARK

(See paragraph 5.2. of this Regulation)

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a ≥ 5 mm

The above approval mark affixed to the LPG equipment shows that this equipment has been approved in the Netherlands (E4), pursuant to Regulation No 67 under approval number 012439. The first two digits of the approval number indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No 67 as amended by the 01 series of amendments (1).


(1)  Class 1, 2, 2A or 3


ANNEX 2B

COMMUNICATION

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Appendix (containers only)

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ANNEX 2C

ARRANGEMENT OF APPROVAL MARKS

MODEL A

(See paragraph 16.2. of this Regulation)

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a ≥ 8 mm

The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle has, with regard to the installation of specific equipment for the use of LPG for propulsion, been approved in the Netherlands (E4), pursuant to Regulation No 67 under approval number 012439. The first two digits of the approval number indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No 67 as amended by the 01 series of amendments.

MODEL B

(See paragraph 16.2. of this Regulation)

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a ≥ 8 mm

The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle has, with regard to the installation of specific equipment for the use of LPG for propulsion, been approved in the Netherlands (E4), pursuant to Regulation No 67 under approval number 012439. The first two digits of the approval number indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No 67 as amended by the 01 series of amendments and that Regulation No 83 included the 04 series of amendments.


ANNEX 2D

COMMUNICATION

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ANNEX 3

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF LPG CONTAINER ACCESSORIES

80 per cent stop valve

1.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.1. of this Regulation.

1.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 3.

1.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

1.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

1.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.1., Provisions regarding 80 per cent stop valve.

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power.

1.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

Operational test

Annex 15, para. 10

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Level indicator

2.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.2. of this Regulation.

2.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 1.

2.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

2.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

2.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.11., Provisions regarding the level indicator.

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

2.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Pressure relief valve (discharge valve)

3.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.3. of this Regulation.

3.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 3.

3.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

3.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

3.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.8., Provisions regarding the pressure relief valve (discharge valve)

3.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

(with 200 operation cycles)

Operational test

Annex 15, para. 10

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve

4.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.4. of this Regulation.

4.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 3.

4.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

4.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

4.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by an electrical/external power.

Paragraph 6.15.13., Provisions regarding the remotely controlled service valve with excess flow valve.

4.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

Operational test

Annex 15, para. 10

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Power supply bushing

5.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.8. of this Regulation.

5.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 1.

5.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

5.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.2.3., Provisions regarding the power supply bushing.

5.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Gas-tight housing

6.1.   Definition: See paragraph 2.5.7. of this Regulation.

6.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Not applicable.

6.3.   Classification pressure: Not applicable.

6.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

6.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.12., Provisions regarding the gas-tight housing.

6.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4 (at 50 kPa)

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5 (at 10 kPa)

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Provisions regarding the approval of the pressure relief device (fuse)

7.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.3.1. of this Regulation.

7.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, paragraph 2.): Class 3.

7.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

7.4.   Design temperature:

The fuse has to be designed to open at a temperature of 120 ± 10 °C

7.5.   General design rules

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power

Paragraph 6.15.7., Provisions regarding the gas tube pressure relief valve

7.6.   Test procedures to be applied:

Overpressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat (if any) leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycles

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

7.7.   Pressure relief device (fuse) requirements

Pressure relief device (fuse) specified by the manufacturer shall be shown to be compatible with the service conditions by means of the following tests:

a)

One specimen shall be held at a controlled temperature of not less than 90 °C and a pressure not less than test pressure (3 000 kPa) for 24 hours. At the end of this test there shall be no leakage or visible sign of extrusion of any fusible metal used in the design.

b)

One specimen shall be fatigue tested at a pressure cycling rate not to exceed 4 cycles per minute as follows:

i)

held at 82 °C while pressured for 10 000 cycles between 300 and 3 000 kPa;

ii)

held at –20 °C while pressured for 10 000 cycles between 300 and 3 000 kPa.

At the end of this test there shall be no leakage, or any visible sign of extrusion of any fusible metal used in the design.

c)

Exposed brass pressure retaining components of pressure relief device shall withstand, without stress corrosion cracking, a mercurous nitrate test as described in ASTM B154 (*3). The pressure relief device shall be immersed for 30 minutes in an aqueous mercurous nitrate solution containing 10 g of mercurous nitrate and 10 ml of nitric acid per litre of solution. Following the immersion, the pressure relief device shall be leak tested by applying an aerostatic pressure of 3 000 kPa for one minute during which time the component shall be checked for external leakage. Any leakage shall not exceed 200 cm3/h.

d)

Exposed stainless steel pressure retaining components of pressure relief device shall be made of an alloy type resistant to chloride induced stress corrosion cracking.


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.

(*3)  This procedure, or other equivalent, is allowed until an international standard will be available.


ANNEX 4

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE FUEL PUMP

1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.5. of this Regulation.

2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 1.

3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C, when the fuel pump is mounted inside the container.

–20 °C to 120 °C, when the fuel pump is mounted outside the container.

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.2.1., Provisions regarding the insulation class.

Paragraph 6.15.3.2., Provisions when the power is switched off.

Paragraph 6.15.6.1., Provisions to prevent pressure build-up.

Applicable test procedures:

6.1.   Fuel pump mounted inside the container:

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

6.2.   Fuel pump mounted outside the container:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 5

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE LPG FILTER UNIT

1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.14. of this Regulation.

2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Filter units can be Class 1, 2 or 2A.

3.   Classification pressure:

Components of Class 1:

3 000  kPa.

Components of Class 2:

450 kPa.

Components of Class 2A:

120 kPa.

4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.   General design rules: (not used)

Applicable test procedures:

6.1.   For parts of Class 1:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

6.2.   For parts of Class 2 and/or 2A:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 6

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE PRESSURE REGULATOR AND THE VAPORIZER

1.   Definition:

Vaporizer

:

see paragraph 2.6. of this Regulation.

Pressure regulator

:

see paragraph 2.7. of this Regulation.

2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Class 1

:

for the part which is in contact with the pressure of the containers.

Class 2

:

for the part which is in contact with the regulated pressure and with a maximum regulated pressure during operation of 450 kPa.

Class 2A

:

for the part which is in contact with the regulated pressure and with a maximum regulated pressure during operation of 120 kPa.

3.   Classification pressure:

Parts of Class 1:

3 000  kPa.

Parts of Class 2:

450 kPa.

Parts of Class 2A:

120 kPa.

4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by external power.

Paragraph 6.15.4., Heat exchange medium (compatibility and pressure requirements).

Paragraph 6.15.5., Overpressure bypass security.

Paragraph 6.15.6.2., Gas flow prevention.

Applicable test procedures:

6.1.   For parts of Class 1:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

6.2.   For parts of Class 2 and/or 2A:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Remarks:

The shut-off valve can be integrated in the vaporizer, regulator, in this case Annex 7 is also applicable.

The parts of the pressure regulator/vaporizer (Class 1, 2 or 2A) shall be leakproof with the outlet(s) of that part closed off.

For the overpressure test all the outlets including those of the coolant compartment shall be closed off.


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 7

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE SHUT-OFF VALVE, THE NON-RETURN VALVE, THE GAS-TUBE PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE AND THE SERVICE COUPLING

Provisions regarding the approval of the shut-off valve

1.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.8. of this Regulation.

1.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 3.

1.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

1.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

1.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power.

1.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Provisions regarding the approval of the non-return valve

2.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.5.9. of this Regulation.

2.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 1.

2.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

2.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

2.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power.

2.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Provisions regarding the approval of the gas-tube relief valve

3.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.9. of this Regulation.

3.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 3.

3.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

3.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

3.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power.

Paragraph 6.15.7., Provisions regarding the gas-tube pressure relief valve.

3.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

(with 200 operation cycles)

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Provisions regarding the approval of the service coupling

4.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.17. of this Regulation.

4.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 1.

4.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

4.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

4.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power.

4.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

(with 6 000 operation cycles)

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 8

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF FLEXIBLE HOSES WITH COUPLINGS

SCOPE

The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of flexible hoses for use with LPG, having an inside diameter up to 20 mm.

This annex covers three types of flexible hoses:

(i)

High pressure rubber hoses (Class 1, e.g. Filling hose)

(ii)

Low pressure rubber hoses (Class 2)

(iii)

High pressure synthetic hoses (Class 1)

1.   HIGH PRESSURE RUBBER HOSES, CLASS 1 CLASSIFICATION, FILLING HOSE

1.1.   General specifications

1.1.1.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand a maximum operating pressure of 3 000 kPa.

1.1.2.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand temperatures between –25 °C and +80 °C. For operating temperatures exceeding the above- mentioned values, the test temperatures must be adapted.

1.1.3.   The inside diameter shall be in compliance with Table 1 of standard ISO 1307.

1.2.   Hose construction

1.2.1.   The hose must embody a smooth-bore tube and a cover of suitable synthetic material, reinforced with one or more interlayer(s).

1.2.2.   The reinforcing interlayer(s) has (have) to be protected by a cover against corrosion.

If for the reinforcing interlayer(s) corrosion-resistant-material is used (i.e. stainless-steel) a cover is not required.

1.2.3.   The lining and the cover must be smooth and free from pores, holes and strange elements.

An intentionally provided puncture in the cover shall not be considered as an imperfection.

1.2.4.   The cover has to be intentionally perforated to avoid the forming of bubbles.

1.2.5.   When the cover is punctured and the interlayer is made of a non-corrosion-resistant material, the interlayer has to be protected against corrosion.

1.3.   Specifications and tests for the lining

Tensile strength and elongation

1.3.1.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

1.3.1.2.    Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 30 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

1.3.1.3.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 70 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 168 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break –30 per cent and +10 per cent

1.4.   Specifications and test-method for the cover

Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

1.4.1.1.    Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 30 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 35 per cent

1.4.1.2.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 70 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 336 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break –30 per cent and +10 per cent

Resistance to ozone

1.4.2.1.   The test has to be performed in compliance with standard ISO 1431/1.

1.4.2.2.   The test-pieces, which have to be stretched to an elongation of 20 per cent shall have to be exposed to air of 40 °C with an ozone-concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 120 hours.

1.4.2.3.   No cracking of the test pieces is allowed.

1.5.   Specifications for uncoupled hose

Gas-tightness (permeability)

1.5.1.1.   A hose at a free length of 1 m has to be connected to a container filled with liquid propane, having a temperature of 23 ± 2 °C.

1.5.1.2.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 4080.

1.5.1.3.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 of vapour per metre of hose per 24 h.

Resistance at low temperature

1.5.2.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 4672:1978 method B.

1.5.2.2.   Test-temperature: –25 ± 3 °C.

1.5.2.3.   No cracking or rupture is allowed.

1.5.3.   (Not used)

Bending test

1.5.4.1.   An empty hose, at a length of approximately 3,5 m must be able to withstand 3 000 times the hereafter prescribed alternating-bending-test without breaking. After the test the hose must be capable of withstanding the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 1.5.5.2.

Figure 1

(example only)

Image 14

mass

propulsion mechanism

Hose inside diameter [mm]

Bending radius [mm] (Figure 1)

Distance between centres [mm] (Figure 1)

Vertical b

Horizontal a

up to 13

102

241

102

13 to 16

153

356

153

from 16 to 20

178

419

178

1.5.4.3.   The testing machine (see Figure 1) shall consist of a steel frame, provided with two wooden wheels, with a rim-width of c.a. 130 mm.

The circumference of the wheels must be grooved for the guidance of the hose. The radius of the wheels, measured to the bottom of the groove, must be as indicated in paragraph 1.5.4.2.

The longitudinal median planes of both wheels must be in the same vertical plane and the distance between the wheel-centres must be in accordance with paragraph 1.5.4.2.

Each wheel must be able to rotate freely round its pivot-centre.

A propulsion mechanism pulls the hose over the wheels at a speed of four complete motions per minute.

1.5.4.4.   The hose shall be S-shape-like installed over the wheels (see Figure 1).

The end, that runs over the upper wheel shall be furnished with a sufficient mass as to achieve a complete snuggling of the hose against the wheels. The part that runs over the lower wheel is attached to the propulsion mechanism.

The mechanism must be so adjusted, that the hose travels a total distance of 1,2 m in both directions.

Hydraulic test pressure and determination of the minimum burst-pressure

1.5.5.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 1402.

1.5.5.2.   The test-pressure of 6 750 kPa shall be applied during 10 minutes, without any leakage.

1.5.5.3.   The burst pressure shall not be less than 10 000 kPa.

1.6.   Couplings

1.6.1.   The couplings shall be made from steel or brass and the surface must be corrosion-resistant.

The couplings must be of the crimp-fitting type.

1.6.2.1.   The swivel-nut must be provided with U.N.F. thread.

1.6.2.2.   The sealing cone of swivel-nut type must be of the type with a half vertical angle of 45°.

1.6.2.3.   The couplings can be made as swivel-nut type or as quick-connector type.

1.6.2.4.   It shall be impossible to disconnect the quick-connector type without specific measures or the use of dedicated tools.

1.7.   Assembly of hose and couplings

1.7.1.   The construction of the couplings must be such, that it is not necessary to peel the cover unless the reinforcement of the hose consists of corrosion-resistant material.

The hose assembly has to be subjected to an impulse test in compliance with standard ISO 1436.

1.7.2.1.   The test has to be completed with circulating oil having a temperature of 93 °C, and a minimum pressure of 3 000 kPa.

1.7.2.2.   The hose has to be subjected to 150 000 impulses.

1.7.2.3.   After the impulse test the hose has to withstand the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 1.5.5.2.

Gas-tightness

1.7.3.1.   The hose assembly (hose with couplings) has to withstand during five minutes a gas pressure of 3 000 kPa without any leakage.

1.8.   Markings

Every hose must bear, at intervals of not greater than 0,5 m, the following clearly legible and indelible identification markings consisting of characters, figures or symbols.

1.8.1.1.   The trade name or mark of the manufacturer.

1.8.1.2.   The year and month of fabrication.

1.8.1.3.   The size and type-marking.

1.8.1.4.   The identification marking ‘L.P.G. Class 1’.

1.8.2.   Every coupling shall bear the trade name or mark of the assembling manufacturer.

2.   LOW PRESSURE RUBBER HOSES, CLASS 2 CLASSIFICATION

2.1.   General specifications

2.1.1.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand a maximum operating pressure of 450 kPa.

2.1.2.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand temperatures between –25 °C and + 125 °C. For operating temperatures exceeding the above- mentioned values, the test temperatures must be adapted.

2.2.   Hose construction

2.2.1.   The hose must embody a smooth-bore tube and a cover of suitable synthetic material, reinforced with one or more interlayer(s).

2.2.2.   The reinforcing interlayer(s) has (have) to be protected by a cover against corrosion.

If for the reinforcing interlayer(s) corrosion-resistant material is used (i.e. stainless steel) a cover is not required.

2.2.3.   The lining and the cover must be smooth and free from pores, holes and strange elements.

An intentionally provided puncture in the cover shall not be considered as an imperfection.

2.3.   Specifications and tests for the lining

Tensile strength and elongation

2.3.1.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

2.3.1.2.   Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 30 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

2.3.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 168 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break –30 per cent and +10 per cent

2.4.   Specifications and test method for the cover

2.4.1.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

2.4.1.2.   Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 30 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 35 per cent

2.4.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 336 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break –30 per cent and +10 per cent

Resistance to ozone

2.4.2.1.   The test has to be performed in compliance with standard ISO 1431/1.

2.4.2.2.   The test-pieces, which have to be stretched to an elongation of 20 per cent shall have to be exposed to air of 40 °C with an ozone concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 120 hours.

2.4.2.3.   No cracking of the test pieces is allowed.

2.5.   Specifications for uncoupled hose

Gas-tightness (permeability)

2.5.1.1.   A hose at a free length of 1 m has to be connected to a container filled with liquid propane, having a temperature of 23 ± 2 °C.

2.5.1.2.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 4080.

2.5.1.3.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 of vapour per metre of hose per 24 h.

Resistance at low temperature

2.5.2.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 4672-1978 method B.

2.5.2.2.   Test-temperature: –25 ± 3 °C

2.5.2.3.   No cracking or rupture is allowed.

Bending test

2.5.3.1.   An empty hose, at a length of approximately 3,5 m must be able to withstand 3 000 times the hereafter prescribed alternating-bending-test without breaking. After the test the hose must be capable of withstanding the test pressure as mentioned in paragraph 2.5.4.2.

Figure 2

(example only)

Image 15

mass

propulsion mechanism

Hose inside diameter [mm]

Bending radius [mm] (Figure 2)

Distance between centres [mm] (Figure 2)

Vertical b

Horizontal a

up to 13

102

241

102

13 to 16

153

356

153

from 16 to 20

178

419

178

2.5.3.3.   The testing machine (see Figure 2) shall consist of a steel frame, provided with two wooden wheels, with a rim-width of c.a. 130 mm.

The circumference of the wheels must be grooved for the guidance of the hose. The radius of the wheels, measured to the bottom of the groove, must be as indicated in paragraph 2.5.3.2.

The longitudinal median planes of both wheels must be in the same vertical plane and the distance between the wheel-centres must be in accordance with paragraph 2.5.3.2.

Each wheel must be able to rotate freely round its pivot-centre.

A propulsion mechanism pulls the hose over the wheels at a speed of four complete motions per minute.

2.5.3.4.   The hose shall be S-shape-like installed over the wheels (see Figure 2).

The end that runs over the upper wheel shall be furnished with a sufficient mass as to achieve a complete snuggling of the hose against the wheels. The part that runs over the lower wheel is attached to the propulsion mechanism.

The mechanism must be so adjusted, that the hose travels a total distance of 1,2 m in both directions.

Hydraulic test pressure and determination of the minimum burst-pressure

2.5.4.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 1402.

2.5.4.2.   The test pressure of 1 015 kPa shall be applied during 10 minutes, without any leakage.

2.5.4.3.   The burst pressure shall not be less than 1 800 kPa.

2.6.   Couplings

2.6.1.   The couplings shall be made from a non-corrosive material.

2.6.2.   The coupling burst pressure in mounted position shall never be less than the tube or hose burst pressure.

The coupling leakage pressure in mounted position shall never be less than the tube or hose leakage pressure.

2.6.3.   The couplings must be of the crimp-fitting type.

2.6.4.   The couplings can be made as swivel-nut type or as quick-connector type.

2.6.5.   It shall be impossible to disconnect the quick-connector type without specific measures or the use of dedicated tools.

2.7.   Assembly of hose and couplings

2.7.1.   The construction of the couplings must be such, that it is not necessary to peel the cover unless the reinforcement of the hose consists of corrosion-resistant material.

The hose assembly has to be subjected to an impulse test in compliance with standard ISO 1436.

2.7.2.1.   The test has to be completed with circulating oil having a temperature of 93 °C, and a minimum pressure of 1 015 kPa.

2.7.2.2.   The hose has to be subjected to 150 000 impulses.

2.7.2.3.   After the impulse test the hose has to withstand the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 2.5.4.2.

Gas-tightness

2.7.3.1.   The hose assembly (hose with couplings) has to withstand during five minutes a gas pressure of 1 015 kPa without any leakage.

2.8.   Markings

Every hose must bear, at intervals of not greater than 0,5 m, the following clearly legible and indelible identification markings consisting of characters, figures or symbols.

2.8.1.1.   The trade name or mark of the manufacturer.

2.8.1.2.   The year and month of fabrication.

2.8.1.3.   The size and type-marking.

2.8.1.4.   The identification marking ‘L.P.G. Class 2’.

2.8.2.   Every coupling shall bear the trade name or mark of the assembling manufacturer.

3.   HIGH PRESSURE SYNTHETIC HOSES, CLASS 1 CLASSIFICATION

3.1.   General specifications

3.1.1.   The purpose of this chapter is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of synthetic flexible hoses for use with LPG, having an inside diameter up to 10 mm.

3.1.2.   This chapter covers, in addition to general specifications and tests for synthetic hoses, also specifications and tests applicable for specific material types or a synthetic hose.

3.1.3.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand a maximum operating pressure of 3 000 kPa.

3.1.4.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand temperatures between –25 °C and + 125 °C. For operating temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, the test temperatures must be adapted.

3.1.5.   The inside diameter shall be in compliance with Table 1 of standard ISO 1307.

3.2.   Hose construction

3.2.1.   The synthetic hose must embody a thermoplastic tube and a cover of suitable thermoplastic material, oil and weatherproof, reinforced with one or more synthetic interlayer(s). If for the reinforcing interlayer(s) a corrosion-resistant material is used (i.e. stainless-steel) a cover is not required.

3.2.2.   The lining and the cover must be free from pores, holes and strange elements.

An intentionally provided puncture in the cover shall not be considered as an imperfection.

3.3.   Specifications and tests for the lining

Tensile strength and elongation

3.3.1.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 20 MPa and elongation at break not less than 200 per cent.

3.3.1.2.    Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 30 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

3.3.1.3.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 336 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break –30 per cent and +10 per cent

Tensile strength and elongation specific for polyamide 6 material

3.3.2.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirements:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 50 per cent.

3.3.2.2.    Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

3.3.2.3.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 3.3.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

3.4.   Specifications and test method for the cover

3.4.1.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 20 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

3.4.1.2.    Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 30 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 35 per cent

3.4.1.3.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 336 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break –30 per cent and +10 per cent

Resistance to ozone

3.4.2.1.   The test has to be performed in compliance with standard ISO 1431/1.

3.4.2.2.   The test-pieces, which have to be stretched to an elongation of 20 per cent shall have to be exposed to air of 40 °C and a relative humidity of 50 per cent ±10 per cent with an ozone-concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 120 hours.

3.4.2.3.   No cracking of the test pieces is allowed.

Specifications and test method for the cover made of polyamide 6 material

3.4.3.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirements:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

3.4.3.2.    Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent

3.4.3.3.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned for at least 21 days before carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 3.3.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 20 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 50 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

3.5.   Specifications for uncoupled hose

Gas-tightness (permeability)

3.5.1.1.   A hose at a free length of 1 m has to be connected to a container filled with liquid propane, having a temperature of 23 ± 2 °C.

3.5.1.2.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 4080.

3.5.1.3.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 of vapour per metre of hose per 24 h.

Resistance at low temperature

3.5.2.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 4672 method B.

3.5.2.2.   Test temperature: –25 ± 3 °C.

3.5.2.3.   No cracking or rupture is allowed.

Resistance at high temperature

3.5.3.1.   A piece of hose, pressurized at 3 000 kPa, with a minimal length of 0,5 m must be put in an oven at a temperature of 125 ± 2 °C during 24 hours.

3.5.3.2.   No leakage is allowed.

3.5.3.3.   After the test the hose shall withstand the test pressure of 6 750 kPa during 10 minutes. No leakage is allowed.

Bending test

An empty hose, at a length of approximately 3,5 m must be able to withstand 3 000 times the hereafter prescribed alternating-bending-test without breaking. After the test the hose must be capable of withstanding the test pressure as mentioned in paragraph 3.5.5.2.

Figure 3

(example only) (a = 102 mm; b = 241 mm)

Image 16

mass

propulsion mechanism

3.5.4.2.   The testing machine (see Figure 3) shall consist of a steel frame, provided with two wooden wheels, with a rim-width of approximately 130 mm.

The circumference of the wheels must be grooved for the guidance of the hose. The radius of the wheels, measured to the bottom of the groove, must be 102 mm.

The longitudinal median planes of both wheels must be in the same vertical plane. The distance between the wheel-centres must be vertical 241 mm and horizontal 102 mm.

Each wheel must be able to rotate freely round its pivot-centre.

A propulsion mechanism pulls the hose over the wheels at a speed of four complete motions per minute.

3.5.4.3.   The hose shall be S-shape-like installed over the wheels (see Figure 3).

The end, that runs over the upper wheel, shall be furnished with a sufficient mass as to achieve a complete snuggling of the hose against the wheels. The part that runs over the lower wheel is attached to the propulsion mechanism.

The mechanism must be so adjusted, that the hose travels a total distance of 1,2 m in both directions.

Hydraulic test pressure and determination of the minimum burst-pressure

3.5.5.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in standard ISO 1402.

3.5.5.2.   The test pressure of 6 750 kPa shall be applied during 10 minutes, without any leakage.

3.5.5.3.   The burst pressure shall not be less than 10 000 kPa.

3.6.   Couplings

3.6.1.   The couplings shall be made from steel or brass and the surface must be corrosion-resistant.

3.6.2.   The couplings must be of the crimp-fitting type and made up of a hose-coupling or banjo bolt. The sealing shall be resistant to LPG and comply with paragraph 3.3.1.2.

3.6.3.   The banjo bolt shall comply with DIN 7643.

3.7.   Assembly of hose and couplings

The hose assembly has to be subjected to an impulse test in compliance with standard ISO 1436.

3.7.1.1.   The test has to be completed with circulating oil having a temperature of 93 °C, and a minimum pressure of 3 000 kPa.

3.7.1.2.   The hose has to be subjected to 150 000 impulses.

3.7.1.3.   After the impulse-test the hose has to withstand the test pressure as mentioned in paragraph 3.5.5.2.

Gas-tightness

3.7.2.1.   The hose assembly (hose with couplings) has to withstand during five minutes a gas pressure of 3 000 kPa without any leakage.

3.8.   Markings

Every hose must bear, at intervals of not greater than 0,5 m, the following clearly legible and indelible identification markings consisting of characters, figures or symbols.

3.8.1.1.   The trade name or mark of the manufacturer.

3.8.1.2.   The year and month of fabrication.

3.8.1.3.   The size and type-marking.

3.8.1.4.   The identification marking ‘L.P.G. Class 1’.

3.8.2.   Every coupling shall bear the trade name or mark of the assembling manufacturer.


ANNEX 9

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE FILLING UNIT

1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.16. of this Regulation.

2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Filling unit: Class 3

Non-return valve: Class 3

3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 65 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.10., Provisions regarding the filling unit.

6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

Seat leakage test

Annex 15, para. 8

Endurance

Annex 15, para. 9

(with 6 000 operation cycles)

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Impact test

paragraph 7. of this annex

Impact test requirements for the Euro filling unit

7.1.   General requirements

The filling unit shall be subjected to an impact test of 10 J.

7.2.   Test procedure

A hardened steel mass of 1 kg shall be dropped from a height of 1 m so as to deliver the impact velocity 4,4 m/s. This shall be achieved by mounting the mass in a pendulum.

The filling unit shall be installed horizontally on a solid object. The impact of the mass shall be on the centre of the protruding part of the filling unit.

7.3.   Test interpretation

The filling unit shall comply with the external leak test and seat leak test at ambient temperature.

7.4.   Re-testing

If the filling unit fails the test, 2 samples of the same component shall be submitted to the impact test. If both samples pass the test, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both fail the re-test, the component shall not be approved.

Remarks:

The overpressure test has to be performed on each non-return valve.

The endurance test shall be carried out with a nozzle specifically intended for the filling unit under test. 6 000 cyles shall be applied according to the following procedure:

connect the nozzle to the connector and open the filling unit system;

leave in open situation for at least 3 seconds;

close the filling unit and disconnect the nozzle.

Figure 1

Connecting area of the Bayonet filling unit

Image 17

Figure 2

Connecting area of the Dish filling unit

Image 18

Figure 3

Connecting area of the light vehicle Euro filling unit

Image 19

Figure 4

Connecting area of the ACME filling unit

Image 20

Figure 5

Connecting area of the heavy-duty vehicle Euro filling unit

Image 21

Dimensions in millimetres

Keys:

1.

Nozzle sealing surface

2.

Minimum valve travel

3.

General tolerance

(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 10

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF LPG CONTAINERS

The meaning of symbols and terms used in this annex

Ph

=

hydraulic test pressure in kPa;

Pr

=

container bursting pressure measured in the bursting test, in kPa;

Re

=

minimum yield stress in N/mm2 guaranteed by the material standard;

Rm

=

minimum tensile strength in N/mm2 guaranteed by the material standard;

Rmt

=

actual tensile strength, in N/mm2;

a

=

calculated minimum thickness of the cylindrical shell wall, in mm;

b

=

calculated minimum thickness of dished ends, in mm;

D

=

nominal outside diameter of the container, in mm;

R

=

inside radius of the dished end of the standard cylindrical container, in mm;

r

=

inside knuckle of the dished end of the standard cylindrical container, in mm;

H

=

outside height of dished part of container end, in mm;

h

=

height of cylindrical part of dished end, in mm;

L

=

length of container's stress-resistant shell, in mm;

A

=

elongation value (per cent) of parent material;

V0

=

initial volume of the container at the moment when the pressure is increased in the burst test, in dm3;

V

=

final volume of the container on bursting, in dm3;

g

=

gravity, in m/s2;

c

=

shape factor;

Z

=

stress reduction factor.

1.   TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

1.1.   Cylinders covered by this annex are as follows

LPG-1 Metal containers

LPG-4 All-Composite containers

1.2.   Dimensions

For all dimensions without indication of tolerances, general tolerances of EN 22768-1 shall apply.

1.3.   Materials

1.3.1.   The material used for the manufacture of the stress-resistant container shells must be steel as specified in Euronorm EN 10120 (however, other materials may be used provided that the container has the same safety characteristics, to be certified by the authorities granting type approval).

1.3.2.   The parent material refers to the material in the state before any specific transformation with regards to the manufacturing process has been carried out.

1.3.3.   All components of the container body and all the parts welded thereto must be made of mutually compatible materials.

1.3.4.   The filler materials must be compatible with the parent material so as to form welds with properties equivalent to those specified for the parent material (EN 288-39).

1.3.5.   The container manufacturer must obtain and provide:

(a)

for metal containers: chemical cast analysis certificates;

(b)

for all-composite containers: chemical resistance analysis certificates related to tests performed according to the requirements of Appendix 6;

(c)

mechanical properties of the material in respect of the steels or other materials applied for the construction of the parts subject to pressure.

1.3.6.   The inspection authority must have the opportunity to make independent analyses. These analyses must be carried out either on specimens taken from the materials as supplied to the container manufacturer or on the finished containers.

1.3.7.   The manufacturer must make available to the inspection authority the results of metallurgical and mechanical tests and analyses of parent and filler materials carried out on welds and must also provide it with a description of the welding methods and processes which can be regarded as representative of the welds made during production.

1.4.   Design temperatures and pressures

1.4.1.   Design temperature

The design operating temperature of the container shall be from –20 °C to 65 °C. For extreme operating temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned temperatures special test conditions are applicable which shall be agreed upon with the competent authority.

1.4.2.   Design pressure

The design operating pressure of the container shall be: 3 000 kPa.

1.5.   The heat treatment procedures, on metal containers only, shall be according to the following requirements

1.5.1.   The heat treatment shall be carried out on the parts or on the complete container.

1.5.2.   Those parts of a container having been deformed by more than 5 per cent must be submitted to the following heat treatment: normalize.

Containers with a wall thickness ≥ 5 mm must be submitted to the following heat treatment:

1.5.3.1.   hot-rolled and normalized material: stress relieve or normalize;

1.5.3.2.   material of a different kind: normalize.

1.5.4.   The manufacturer must submit the procedure for the heat treatment used.

1.5.5.   Localized heat treatment of a completed container is not permitted.

1.6.   Calculation of the parts under pressure

Calculation of the parts under pressure for metal containers.

The wall thickness of the cylindrical shell of the containers must not be less than that calculated by the formula:

1.6.1.1.1.   Containers without longitudinal welds:

Formula

1.6.1.1.2.   Containers with longitudinal welds:

Formula

(i)

z = 0,85 where the manufacturer radiographs each weld intersection and 100 m of the adjacent longitudinal weld and 50 mm (25 mm each side of the intersection) of the adjacent circumferential weld.

This test has to be performed per machine at the beginning and end of each work shift period from continuous production.

(ii)

z = 1 where each weld intersection and 100 mm of the adjacent longitudinal weld and 50 mm (25 each side of the intersection) of the adjacent circumferential weld is spot radiographed.

This test has to be performed at 10 per cent of the container production: the containers to be tested are chosen randomly. Should these radiograph tests reveal unacceptable defects, as defined in paragraph 2.4.1.4., all the necessary steps must be taken to examine the production run in question and eliminate the defects.

Dimensions and calculations of ends (see figures in Appendix 4 to this annex).

1.6.1.2.1.   The container ends shall be in one piece, shall encave to the pressure and shall have either a torispherical or an elliptical form (examples are given in Appendix 5).

1.6.1.2.2.   The container ends must fulfil the following conditions:

Torispherical ends

simultaneous limits:

0,003 D ≤ b ≤ 0,08 D

r ≥ 0,1 D

R ≤ D

H ≥ 0,18 D

r ≥ 2 b

h ≥ 4 b

h ≤ 0,15 D

(not applicable for containers as shown in Appendix 2 to this annex, Figure 2a)

Elliptical ends

simultaneous limits:

0,003 D ≤ b ≤ 0,08 D

H ≥ 0,18 D

h ≥ 4 b

h ≤ 0,15 D

(not applicable for containers as shown in Appendix 2 to this annex, Figure 2a)

1.6.1.2.3.   The thickness of these barrelled ends must not in toto be less than the figure calculated by means of the following formula:

Formula

The shape factor C to be used for full ends is given in the table and in the graphs contained in Appendix 4 to this annex.

The wall thickness of the cylindrical edge of the ends may not be less or differ more than 15 per cent from the smallest wall thickness of the shell.

1.6.1.3.   The nominal wall thickness of the cylindrical part and of the barrelled end may not, under any circumstances; be less than:

Formula

with a minimum of 1,5 mm.

1.6.1.4.   The shell of the container may be made up of one, two or three parts. When the shell is made up from two or three parts, the longitudinal welds must be shifted/rotated with a minimum of 10 times the thickness of the container wall (10 · a). The ends must be in one piece and convex.

1.6.2.   Calculation of the parts under pressure for all-composite containers

The stresses in the container shall be calculated for each container type. The pressures used for these calculations shall be the design pressure and burst test pressure. The calculations shall use suitable analysis techniques to establish stress distribution throughout the container.

1.7.   Construction and workmanship

General requirements

1.7.1.1.   The manufacturer shall demonstrate by having a suitable quality control system that he has and maintains the manufacturing facilities and processes to ensure that containers produced satisfy the requirements of this annex.

1.7.1.2.   The manufacturer must ensure through adequate supervision that the parent materials and pressed parts used to manufacture the containers are free from defects likely to jeopardize the safe use of the containers.

Parts subjected to pressure

1.7.2.1.   The manufacturer must describe the welding methods and processes used and indicate the inspections carried out during production.

1.7.2.2.   Technical welding requirements

The butt welds must be executed by an automatic welding process.

The butt welds on the stress-resistant shell may not be located in any area where there are changes of profile.

Angle welds may not be superimposed on butt welds and must be at least 10 mm away from them.

Welds joining parts making up the shell of the container must satisfy the following conditions (see figures given as examples in Appendix 1 of this annex):

longitudinal weld: this weld is executed in the form of a butt weld on the full section of the material of the wall;

circumferential weld:

this weld is executed in the form of a butt weld on the full section of the material of the wall. A joggle weld is considered to be a special type of butt weld;

welds of the studded valve plate or ring shall be carried out according to Appendix 1, Figure 3.

A weld fixing the collar or supports to the container shall be either a butt or angle weld.

Welded mounting supports shall be welded in the circumferential way. The welds shall be strong enough to withstand vibration, braking actions and outside forces of at least 30 g in all directions.

In this case of butt welds, the misalignment of the joint faces may not exceed one-fifth of the thickness of the walls (1/5 a).

1.7.2.3.   Inspection of welds

The manufacturer must ensure that the welds show continuous penetration without any deviation of the weld seam, and that they are free from defects likely to jeopardize the safe use of the container.

For containers in two pieces, a radiographical test has to be performed on the circumferential butt welds over 100 mm, with the exception of the welds in conformity with joggle weld on page 1 of Appendix 1 of this annex. On one container selected at the beginning and end of each shift period from continuous production and, in the event of production being interrupted for a period of more than 12 hours, the first container welded should also be radiographed.

1.7.2.4.   Out-of-roundness

The out-of-roundness of the cylindrical shell of the container must be limited so that the difference between the maximum and minimum outside diameter of the same cross-section is not more than 1 per cent of the average of those diameters.

Fittings

1.7.3.1.   The supports must be manufactured and attached to the container body in such a way as not to cause dangerous concentrations of stresses or be conducive to the collection of water.

1.7.3.2.   The base of the container must be sufficiently strong and made of metal compatible with the type of steel used for the container. The form of the base must give the container sufficient stability.

The top edge of the base must be welded to the container in such a way as not to be conducive to the collection of water nor to allow water to penetrate between the base and the container.

1.7.3.3.   A reference mark shall be affixed on the containers to ensure their correct installation.

1.7.3.4.   Where fitted, identification plates must be fixed on to the stress resistant shell and shall not be removable. All the necessary corrosion prevention measures must be taken.

1.7.3.5.   The container shall have provisions to mount a gas-tight housing or kind of protection device over the container accessories.

1.7.3.6.   Any other material, however, may be used for the manufacture of the supports, provided that its strength is assured and that all risk of the container end corroding is eliminated.

Fire protection

1.7.4.1.   A container representative of the type of container, all accessories fitted on it and any added insulation or protective material, shall be covered by a bonfire test as specified in paragraph 2.6. of this annex.

2.   TESTS

Tables 1 and 2 below give an overview of the tests to be performed on the LPG containers on prototypes as well as during the production process according to their nature. All tests shall be performed at ambient temperature of 20 ± 5 °C, unless otherwise stated.

Table 1

Overview of tests to be performed on metal containers

Test to be performed

Production

Batch tests

Number of containers to be tested for type approval

Test description

Tensile test

1 per batch

2 (1)

See para. 2.1.2.2.

Bend test

1 per batch

2 (1)

See para. 2.1.2.3.

Burst test

 

2

See para. 2.2.

Hydraulic test

Each container

100 %

See para. 2.3.

Bonfire test

 

1

See para. 2.6.

Radiographic examination

1 per batch

100 %

See para. 2.4.1.

Macroscopic examination

1 per batch

2 (1)

See para. 2.4.2.

Inspection of welds

1 per batch

100 %

See para. 1.7.2.3.

Visual inspection of the parts of the container

1 per batch

100 %

 

Note 1: 6 containers shall be submitted for type approval.

Note 2: On one of these prototypes the volume of the container and the wall thickness of each part of the container shall be determined.

Table 2

Overview of tests to be performed on all-composite containers

Test to be performed

Production

Batch tests

Number of containers to be tested for type approval

Test description

Burst test

1 per batch

3

See para. 2.2.

Hydraulic test

Each container

All containers

See para. 2.3.

Ambient temperature pressure cycling test

1 per 5 batches

3

See para. 2.3.6.1.

High temperature pressure cycling test

 

1

See para. 2.3.6.2.

External leak test

 

1

See para. 2.3.6.3.

Permeation test

 

1

See para. 2.3.6.4.

LPG cycling test

 

1

See para. 2.3.6.5.

High temperature creep test

 

1

See para. 2.3.6.6.

Bonfire test

 

1

See para. 2.6.

Impact test

 

1

See para. 2.7.

Drop test

 

1

See para. 2.8.

Boss torque test

 

1

See para. 2.9.

Acid environment test

 

1

See para. 2.10.

Ultra-violet radiation test

 

1

See para. 2.11.

2.1.   Mechanical tests

General requirements

Frequency of the mechanical tests

2.1.1.1.1.   The frequency of the tests for metal containers shall be: 1 container from each batch during production and for type testing, see Table 1.

Test pieces which are not flat shall be flattened by a cold process.

In test pieces containing a weld, the weld shall be machined to trim the surplus.

Metal containers shall be subjected to the tests as described in Table 1.

Test pieces from containers with one circumferential weld only (two sections) shall be taken from the places shown in Appendix 2, Figure 1.

Test pieces from containers with longitudinal and circumferential welds (three or more sections) shall be taken from the places shown in Appendix 2, Figure 2.

2.1.1.1.2.   The frequency of the tests for all-composite containers shall be:

(a)

During production: 1 container from each batch

(b)

For type testing, see Table 2

2.1.1.2.   All the mechanical tests for checking the properties of the parent metal and welds of the stress-resistant shells of the container are carried out on test pieces taken from finished containers.

Types of tests and evaluation of test results

Each sample container is subjected to the following tests:

2.1.2.1.1.   Containers with longitudinal and circumferential welds (three sections) on test-pieces taken from the places shown in Figure 1 of Appendix 2 of this annex:

(a)

One tensile test on parent material; the test piece to be taken in the longitudinal direction (if this is not possible, it may be taken in a circumferential direction);

(b)

One tensile test on parent material of the bottom;

(c)

One tensile test perpendicular to the longitudinal weld;

(d)

One tensile test perpendicular to the circumferential weld;

(e)

One bend test on the longitudinal weld, the inner surface in tension;

(f)

One bend test on the longitudinal weld, the outer surface in tension;

(g)

One bend test on the circumferential weld, the inner surface in tension;

(h)

One bend test on the circumferential weld, the outer surface in tension; and

(i)

One macroscopic test of a welded section;

(ml, m2) A minimum of two macroscopic tests of valve boss/plate sections in case of the sidewall mounted valves referred to in paragraph 2.4.2. below.

2.1.2.1.2.   Containers with circumferential welds only (two sections) on test-pieces taken from the places shown in Figures 2a and 2b of Appendix 2 to this annex:

The tests as specified in paragraph 2.1.2.1.1. above with the exception of (c), (e) and (f) which are not applicable. The test-piece for the tensile test on parent material shall be taken from (a) or (b) as mentioned in paragraph 2.1.2.1.1. above.

2.1.2.1.3.   Test-pieces which are not sufficiently flat must be flattened by cold pressing.

2.1.2.1.4.   In all test pieces containing a weld, the weld is machined to trim the surplus.

Tensile test

Tensile test on parent metal

2.1.2.2.1.1.   The tensile test shall be carried out in accordance with Euronorms EN 876, EN 895 and EN 10002-1.

2.1.2.2.1.2.   The values determined for yield stress, tensile strength and elongation after break must comply with the characteristics of the metal as required in paragraph 1.3. of this annex.

Tensile test on welds

2.1.2.2.2.1.   This tensile test perpendicular to the weld must be carried out on a test-piece having a reduced cross-section 25 mm in width for a length extending up to 15 mm beyond the edges of the weld, as shown in Figure 2 of Appendix 3 to this annex.

Beyond this central part the width of the test-piece must increase progressively.

2.1.2.2.2.2.   The tensile strength value obtained must meet the minimum levels required by EN 10120.

Bend test

2.1.2.3.1.   The bend test shall be carried out in accordance with standards ISO 7438:2000 and ISO 7799:2000 and Euronorm EN 910 for welded parts. The bend tests shall be carried out on the inner surface in tension and the outer surface in tension.

2.1.2.3.2.   Cracks must not appear in the test-piece when it is bent round a mandrel as long as the inside edges are separated by a distance not greater than the diameter of the mandrel + 3a (see Figure 1 in Appendix 3 of this annex).

2.1.2.3.3.   The ratio (n) between the diameter of the mandrel and the thickness of the test piece must not exceed the values given in the following table:

Actual tensile strength Rt in (N/mm2)

Value (n)

up to 440 inclusive

2

above 440 to 520 inclusive

3

above 520

4

Retesting for the tensile and bend tests

2.1.2.4.1.   Retesting is permitted for the tensile and bend test. A second test shall consist of two test pieces taken from the same container.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.2.   Burst test under hydraulic pressure

Test conditions

Containers subjected to this test must bear the inscriptions which it is proposed to affix on the section of the container subjected to pressure,

2.2.1.1.   The burst test under hydraulic pressure must be carried out with equipment which enables the pressure to be increased at an even rate, until the container bursts and the change in pressure over time to be recorded. The maximum flow rate during the test should not exceed 3 per cent of the capacity of the container per minute.

Test interpretation

The criteria adopted for the interpretation of the burst test are as follows:

2.2.2.1.1.   Volumetric expansion of the metal container; it equals: volume of water used between the time when the pressure starts to rise and the time of bursting;

2.2.2.1.2.   Examination of the tear and the shape of its edges;

2.2.2.1.3.   Bursting pressure.

Test acceptance conditions

2.2.3.1.   The measured bursting pressure (Pr) must not under any circumstances be less than 2,25 × 3 000 = 6 750 kPa.

2.2.3.2.   The specific change in the volume of the metal container at the time of bursting must not be less than:

20 per cent if the length of the metal container is greater than the diameter;

17 per cent if the length of the metal container is equal to or less than the diameter.

8 per cent in the case of a special metal container as shown in Appendix 5, page 1, Figures A, B and C.

The burst test must not cause any fragmentation of the container.

2.2.3.3.1.   The main fracture must not show any brittleness, i.e. the edges of the fracture must not be radial but must be at an angle to a diametrical plane and display a reduction of area throughout their thickness.

2.2.3.3.2.   For metal containers the fracture must not reveal an inherent defect in the metal. The weld must be at least as strong as the original metal but preferably stronger.

For all-composite containers, the fracture shall not reveal any defects in the structure.

2.2.3.4.   Retesting for the burst test

Retesting is permitted for the burst test. A second burst test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.3.   Hydraulic test

2.3.1.   The containers representative of the type of container submitted for approval (without accessories but with the outlets closed off) shall withstand an inner hydraulic pressure of 3 000 kPa without leakages or becoming permanently distorted, according to the following requirements:

2.3.2.   The water pressure in the container must increase at an even rate until the test pressure of 3 000 kPa is reached.

2.3.3.   The container must remain under the test pressure long enough to make it possible to establish that the pressure is not falling off and that the container can be guaranteed leakproof.

2.3.4.   After the test the container must show no signs of permanent deformation.

2.3.5.   Any container tested which does not pass the test must be rejected.

Additional hydraulic tests to be performed on all-composite containers

Ambient temperature pressure cycling test

2.3.6.1.1.   Test procedure

The finished container shall be pressure cycled to a maximum of 20 000 cycles, according to the following procedure:

(a)

fill the container to be tested with a non-corrosive fluid such as oil, inhibited water or glycol;

(b)

cycle the pressure in the container between not more than 300 kPa and not less than 3 000 kPa at a rate not to exceed 10 cycles per minutes.

This cycle shall be performed at least 10 000 times and continued until 20 000 times unless a leak before break appears;

(c)

the number of cycles to failure shall be reported, along with the location and description of the failure initiation.

2.3.6.1.2.   Test interpretation

Before reaching 10 000 cycles, the container shall not fail or leak.

After completing 10 000 cycles, the container may leak before break.

2.3.6.1.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the ambient temperature pressure cycling test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

+High temperature pressure cycling test

2.3.6.2.1.   Test procedure

Finished containers shall be cycle tested, without showing evidence of rupture, leakage, or fibre unravelling, as follows:

(a)

Fill the container to be tested with a non-corrosive fluid such as oil, inhibited water or glycol;

(b)

Condition for 48 hours at 0 kPa, 65 °C, and 95 per cent or greater relative humidity.

(c)

Hydrostatically pressurize for 3 600 cycles not exceeding 10 cycles per minute, between not more than 300 kPa and not less than 3 000 kPa at 65 °C and 95 per cent humidity;

Following the pressure cycling at high temperature, containers shall be submitted to the external leak test and then hydrostatically pressurized to failure in accordance with the burst test procedure.

2.3.6.2.2.   Test interpretation

The container shall comply with the external leak test requirements as defined in paragraph 2.3.6.3.

The container shall achieve a minimum burst pressure of 85 per cent of the burst pressure.

2.3.6.2.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the high temperature pressure cycling test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

External leak test

2.3.6.3.1.   Test procedure

While under 3 000 kPa pressure, the container shall be submerged in soapy water to detect leakage (bubble test).

2.3.6.3.2.   Test interpretation

The container shall not show any leakage.

2.3.6.3.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the external leak test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored. In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

Permeation test

2.3.6.4.1.   Test procedure

All the tests shall be performed at 40 °C on a container fuelled with commercial propane at 80 per cent of its water capacity.

The test shall be held during at least 8 weeks until the steady state permeation of the structure is observed during at least 500 hours.

Then, the rate of the container weight loss shall be measured.

The graph of mass change per number of days shall be recorded.

2.3.6.4.2.   Test interpretation

The rate of mass loss shall be less than 0,15 g/hour.

2.3.6.4.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the permeation test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored. In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

LPG cycling test

2.3.6.5.1.   Test procedure

A container having successfully passed the permeation test shall be submitted to an ambient temperature pressure cycling test according to the requirements of paragraph 2.3.6.1. of this annex.

The container shall be sectioned and the liner/end boss interface shall be inspected.

2.3.6.5.2.   Test interpretation

The container shall comply with the ambient temperature pressure cycling test requirements.

Inspection of the liner/end boss interface of the container shall not reveal any evidence of deterioration, such as fatigue cracking or electrostatic discharge.

2.3.6.5.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the LPG cycling test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

High temperature creep test

2.3.6.6.1.   General

This test shall only be performed on all-composite containers with a resin matrix having a glass transition temperature (TG) below the design temperature +50 °C.

2.3.6.6.2.   Test procedure

One finished container shall be tested as follows:

(a)

The container shall be pressurized to 3 000 kPa and held at a temperature defined according the table on the basis of the test period duration:

Table 3

Test temperature relating to the High temperature creep test duration

T (°C)

Exposure time (h)

100

200

95

350

90

600

85

1 000

80

1 800

75

3 200

70

5 900

65

11 000

60

21 000

(b)

The container shall be submitted to an external leak test.

2.3.6.6.3.   Test interpretation

The maximum allowed volume increase is 5 per cent. The container shall meet the requirements of the external leak test as defined in paragraph 2.4.3. of this annex and the burst test as defined in paragraph 2.2. of this annex.

2.3.6.6.4.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the high temperature creep test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.4.   Non-destructive examination

Radiographic examination

2.4.1.1.   Welds must be radiographed in compliance with ISO specification R 1106, using classification B.

2.4.1.2.   When a wire-type indicator is used, the smallest diameter of the wire visible may not exceed the value of 0,10 mm.

When a stepped and holed type indicator is used, the diameter of the smallest hole visible may not exceed 0,25 mm.

2.4.1.3.   Assessment of the weld radiographs must be based on the original films in compliance with the practice recommended in standard ISO 2504, paragraph 6.

The following defects are not acceptable:

Cracks, inadequate welds or inadequate penetration of the weld.

2.4.1.4.1.   For the container wall thickness ≥ 4 mm, the inclusions listed below are regarded as acceptable:

Any gas inclusion measuring not more than a/4 mm;

Any gas inclusion measuring more than a/4 mm but not more than a/3 mm, which is more than 25 mm away from other gas inclusion measuring more than a/4 mm and measuring not more than a/3 mm;

Any elongated inclusion or any group of rounded inclusions in a row where the length represented (over a weld length of 12a) is not greater than 6 mm;

Gas inclusions over any 100 mm weld length, where the total area of all the figures is not greater than 2a mm2.

2.4.1.4.2.   For the container wall thickness < 4 mm, the inclusions listed below are regarded as acceptable:

Any gas inclusion measuring not more than a/2 mm;

Any gas inclusion measuring more than a/2 mm but not more than a/1,5 mm, which is more than 25 mm away from other gas inclusion measuring more than a/2 mm and measuring not more than a/1,5 mm;

Any elongated inclusion or any group of rounded inclusions in a row where the length represented (over a weld length of 12a) is not greater than 6 mm;

Gas inclusions over any 100 mm weld length, where the total area of all the figures is not greater than 2a mm2.

2.4.2.   Macroscopic examination

The macroscopic examination of a full transverse section of the weld must show a complete fusion on the surface treated with any acid from the macro-preparation and must not show any assembly fault or a significant inclusion or other defects.

In case of doubt, a microscopic examination should be made of the suspect area.

2.5.   Examination on the outside of the weld for metal containers

2.5.1.   This examination is carried out when the weld has been completed.

The welded surface examined must be well illuminated, and must be free from grease, dust, scale residue or protective coating of any kind.

2.5.2.   The fusion of the welded metal with the parent metal must be smooth and free from etching. There must be no cracks, notching or porous patches in the welded surface and the surface adjacent to the wall. The welded surface must be regular and even. Where a butt weld has been used, the excess thickness must not exceed 1/4 of the width of the weld.

2.6.   Bonfire test

2.6.1.   General

The bonfire test is designed to demonstrate that a container complete with the fire protection system, specified in the design, will prevent the burst of the container when tested under the specified fire conditions. The manufacturer shall describe the behaviour of the complete fire protection system including the designed drop to atmospheric pressure. The requirements of this test shall be deemed to be fulfilled for any container having the following characteristics in common with the parent container:

(a)

same type approval owner,

(b)

same shape (cylindrical, special shape),

(c)

same material,

(d)

same or greater wall thickness,

(e)

same or smaller diameter (cylindrical container),

(f)

same height or smaller height (special container shape),

(g)

same or smaller external surface,

(h)

same configuration of accessories fitted to the container (2).

2.6.2.   Container set-up

(a)

The container shall be placed in the designed position by the manufacturer with the container bottom approximately 100 mm above the fire source.

(b)

Shielding shall be used to prevent direct flame impingement on the fusible plug (PRD) if present. The shielding shall not be in direct contact with the fusible plug (PRD).

(c)

Any failure during the test of a valve, fitting or tubing that is not part of the intended protection system for the design shall invalidate the result.

(d)

Containers with a length of less than 1,65 m: The centre of the container shall be positioned over the centre of the fire source.

Containers with a length equal to or larger than 1,65 m: If the container is fitted with a pressure relief device at one side, the fire source shall commence at the opposite side of the container. If the container is fitted with pressure relief devices at both sides, or at more than one location along the length of the container, the centre of the fire source shall be centred midway between the pressure relief devices that are separated by the greatest horizontal distance.

2.6.3.   Fire source

A uniform fire source of 1,65 m length shall provide direct flame impingement on the container surface across its entire diameter.

Any fuel may be used for the fire source provided that it supplies uniform heat sufficient to maintain the specified test temperatures until the container is vented. The arrangement of the fire shall be recorded in sufficient detail to ensure that the rate of heat input to the container is reproducible. Any failure or inconsistency of the fire source during a test shall invalidate the result.

2.6.4.   Temperature and pressure measurements

During the bonfire test the following items shall be measured:

(a)

The fire temperature just below the container, along the bottom of the container, at minimum two locations, not more than 0,75 m apart;

(b)

The wall temperature in the bottom of the container;

(c)

The wall temperature within 25 mm from the pressure relief device;

(d)

The wall temperature on the top of the container, in the centre of the fire source;

(e)

The pressure inside the container.

Metallic shielding shall be used to prevent direct flame impingement on the thermocouples. Alternatively, thermocouples may be inserted into blocks of metal, measuring less than 25 mm2. During the test the thermocouple temperatures and the container pressure shall be recorded at intervals of 2 seconds or less.

2.6.5.   General test requirements

(a)

Container shall be filled with 80 per cent in volume of LPG (commercial fuel) and tested in the horizontal position at working pressure;

(b)

Immediately following the ignition, the fire shall produce flame impingement on the surface of the container, along 1,65 m length of the fire source across the container;

(c)

Within 5 minutes of ignition at least one thermocouple shall indicate the temperature of fire just below the container of at least 590 °C. This temperature shall be maintained for the remaining duration of the test, namely until when no overpressure is present in the container;

(d)

The severity of the test conditions shall not be mitigated by ambient conditions (e.g. rain, moderate/high wind etc.).

2.6.6.   Test results:

(a)

A burst of the container shall invalidate the test result.

(b)

A pressure of more than 3 700 kPa, i.e. 136 per cent of the set pressure of the PRV (2 700 kPa), during the test shall invalidate the test result.

A pressure between 3 000 and 3 700 kPa shall only invalidate the test result in case visible plastic deformation is observed.

(c)

In case the behaviour of the protection system does not comply with the specification of the manufacturer and it leads to a mitigating test condition the result shall be invalidated.

(d)

For a composite container a release of LPG via the surface is accepted in case of a controlled release. A release of gaseous LPG within 2 minutes after the start of the test or a release capacity of more than 30 litres per minute shall invalidate the test result.

(e)

The results shall be presented in a test summary and shall include the following data for each container as a minimum:

Description of the container configuration.

Photo of the container set-up and PRD.

Applied method including time interval between measurements.

The elapsed time from ignition of the fire to the start of venting of LPG and actual pressure.

Time to reach atmospheric pressure.

Pressure and temperature diagrams.

2.7.   Impact test

2.7.1.   General

At the choice of the manufacturer, all the impact tests may be carried out on one container or each may be carried out on a different container.

Test procedure

For this test, the fluid medium shall be water/glycol mixture or another liquid having a low freezing point which does not change the properties of the container material.

A container filled with the fluid medium to the weight that equals the filling with 80 per cent of LPG with a reference mass of 0,568 kg/l, is projected, parallel to the length axle (x-axis in Figure 1) of the vehicle in which it is intended to be fitted at a velocity, V of 50 km/h, against a solid wedge, fixed horizontally, perpendicular to the movement of the container.

The wedge shall be installed so that the centre of gravity (c.g.) of the container hits the centre of the wedge.

The wedge shall have an angle α of 90 degrees and the point of impact shall be rounded with a maximum radius of 2,5 mm. The length of the wedge L, shall be at least equal to the width of the container in respect to its movement during the test. The height H of the wedge shall be at least 600 millimetres

Figure 1

description of the impact test procedure:

Image 22
Note:

Note: c.g. = center of gravity

c.g.

c.g.

In the case where a container can be installed in more than one position in the vehicle, each position shall be tested.

After this test, the container shall be submitted to an external leak test as defined in paragraph 2.3.6.3. of this annex.

2.7.3.   Test interpretation

The container shall comply with the external leak test requirements as defined in paragraph 2.3.6.3. of this annex.

2.7.4.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the impact test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.8.   Drop Test

2.8.1.   Test procedure

One finished container shall be drop tested at ambient temperature without internal pressurization or attached valves. The surface onto which the containers are dropped shall be a smooth, horizontal concrete pad or flooring.

The drop height (Hd) shall be 2 m (measured to the lowest point of the container).

The same empty container shall be dropped:

in a horizontal position,

vertically on each end,

at an angle of 45°.

Following the drop test, the containers shall be submitted to an ambient temperature pressure cycling test according the requirements of paragraph 2.3.6.1. of this annex.

2.8.2.   Test interpretation

The containers shall comply with the requirements of the ambient temperature pressure cycling test according the requirements of paragraph 2.3.6.1. of this annex.

2.8.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the drop test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.9.   Boss torque test

2.9.1.   Test procedure

The body of the container shall be restrained against rotation and a torque of 2 times the valve or PRD installation torque specified by the manufacturer shall be applied to each end boss of the container, first in the direction to tighten a threaded connection, then in the untightening direction, and finally again in the tightening direction.

The container shall then be subjected to an external leak test in accordance with the requirements shown in paragraph 2.3.6.3 of this annex.

2.9.2.   Test interpretation

The container shall comply with the requirements of the external leak test as shown in paragraph 2.3.6.3. of this annex.

2.9.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the boss torque test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.10.   Acid environment test

2.10.1.   Test procedure

A finished container shall be exposed for 100 hours to a 30 per cent sulphuric acid solution (battery acid with specific gravity of 1,219) while pressurized to 3 000 kPa. During the test, a minimum of 20 per cent of the total area of the container has to be covered by the sulphuric acid solution.

Then, the container shall be submitted to a burst test as defined in paragraph 2.2. of this annex.

2.10.2.   Test interpretation

The burst pressure measured shall be at least 85 per cent of the container burst pressure.

2.10.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the acid environment test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.

2.11.   Ultra-violet (UV) test

2.11.1.   Test procedure

When the container is directly subjected to sunlight (also behind glass), UV-radiation might degrade polymeric materials. Therefore, the manufacturer has to prove the ability of the outer layer material to withstand the UV-radiation during his lifetime of 20 years.

(a)

If the outer layer has a mechanical (load carrying) function, the container shall be burst tested according to the requirements of paragraph 2.2. of this annex, after exposing to a representative UV-radiation;

(b)

If the outer layer has a protective function, the manufacturer has to prove that the coating remains integer within 20 years, in order to protect the under-laying structural layers from a representative UV-radiation.

2.11.2.   Test interpretation

When the outer layer has a mechanical function, the container shall comply with the burst test requirements as defined in paragraph 2.2. of this annex.

2.11.3.   Retesting

Retesting is permitted for the ultra-violet test.

A second test shall be performed on two containers which have been produced successively to the first container within the same batch.

If the results of these tests are satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored.

In the event where one or both of the retests fail to meet the requirements, the batch shall be rejected.


(1)  These test pieces can be taken from one container

(2)  Additional accessories, modifications and extensions of the accessories fitted to the container is possible without retesting, if notified to the administrative department which approved the container, considered to be unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect. The administrative department may require a further test report from the technical service responsible. The container and its configurations of accessories will be indicated in Appendix 1 to Annex 2B.

Appendix 1

Figure 1

Types of main longitudinal butt welds

Image 23

Removable backing strip (usually copper)

(a) Double welded close square

(b) Single welded close square

(c) Single welded open square

Figure 2

Circumferential butt weld

Image 24

angle weld

x, avoid notch here

joggle weld

weld on backing strip

Note: The angle weld can be performed as a ‘chain-weld’

Figure 3

Examples of welded studded plates

Image 25

Figure 4

Examples of welded rings with flange

Image 26

FLANGE

RING

FLANGE

RING

Appendix 2

Figure 1

Containers with longitudinal and circumferential welds, Location of test-pieces

Image 27

(a)

tensile test on parent material

(b)

tensile test on parent material of the bottom

(c)

tensile test on a longitudinal weld

(d)

tensile test on a circumferential weld

(e)

bend test on a longitudinal weld, the inner surface in tension

(f)

bend test on a longitudinal weld, the outer surface in tension

(g)

bend test on a circumferential weld, the inner surface in tension

(h)

bend test on a circumferential weld, the outer surface in tension

(m1, m2)

macrosections through valve boss/plate welds (side-mounted valve block)

weld

weld

weld

Figure 2a

Containers with circumferential welds only and side-mounted valve blocks; Location of test-pieces

Image 28

(a) or (b)

tensile test on parent material

(d)

tensile test on a circumferential weld

(g)

bend test on a circumferential weld, the inner surface in tension

(h)

bend test on a circumferential weld, the outer surface in tension

(m1, m2)

macrosections through valve boss/plate welds (side-mounted valve block)

weld

a or b

Figure 2b

Containers with circumferential welds only and valve boss/plate fitted to the end.

Image 29

(m1, m2)

macrosections through valve boss/plate welds

(Refer to Figure 2a for other locations of test-pieces)

Appendix 3

Figure 1

Illustration of bend test

Image 30

Figure 2

Test piece for tensile test perpendicular to the weld

Image 31

Appendix 4

Image 32

torispherical ends

elliptical ends

Note: For torispherical ends

Formula

Relationship between H/D and shape factor C

Image 33

Values of shape factor C for H/D between 0,20 and 0,25

Relationship between H/D and shape factor C

Image 34

Note:

Intermediate values may be obtained by linear interpolation

Values of shape factor C for H/D between 0,25 and 0,50

Appendix 5

EXAMPLES OF SPECIAL VESSELS

Image 35

elliptical vessel

toroidal vessel

duo vessel

twin vessel

Image 36

Appendix 6

MATERIAL TEST METHODS

Chemical resistance

Materials used in an all-composite container must be tested according to standard ISO 175 for 72 hours at room temperature.

Demonstrating the chemical resistance by using data from literature is also allowed.

Compatibility with the following media shall be checked:

(a)

brake fluid;

(b)

window cleaner;

(c)

cooling liquid;

(d)

non-leaded petrol;

(e)

solution of deionized water, sodium chloride (2,5 % by mass ±0,1 %), (calcium chloride (2,5 % by mass ±0,1 %) and sulphuric acid sufficient to achieve a solution of pH 4,0 ± 0,2.

Test acceptance criteria:

(a)

Elongation:

The elongation of a thermoplastic material, after testing, must be at least 85 per cent of the initial elongation. The elongation of an elastomer, after testing, must be at least larger than 100 per cent.

(b)

For structural components (e.g., fibres):

The residual strength for a structural component after testing must be at least 80 per cent of the original tensile strength.

(c)

Non-structural components (e.g., coating):

There are no visual cracks allowed.

2.   Composite structure

(a)

Fibres embedded in a matrix

Tensile properties:

ASTM 3039

Fiber-resin composites

ASTM D2343

Glass, Aramid (tens.prop.yarns glass)

ASTM D4018.81

Carbon (tens.prop.continuous filament) with special remark for the matrix

Shear properties:

ASTM D2344

(Interlaminar shear strength of parallel fibre composite by short beam method)

(b)

Dry fibres on an isotensoid shape

Tensile properties:

ASTM D4018.81

Carbon (continuous filament), other fibres.

3.   Protective coating

UV-radiation degrades polymeric material when directly subjected to the sunlight. Depending on the installation, the manufacturer has to proof a ‘safe life’ for the coating.

4.   Thermoplastic components

The Vicat softening temperature of a thermoplastic component must be above 70 °C. For structural components, the Vicat softening temperature must be at least 75 °C.

5.   Thermoset components

The Vicat softening temperature of a thermo-set component must be above 70 °C.

6.   Elastomeric components

The glass transition temperature (Tg) of an elastomer component must be lower than –40 °C. The glass transition temperature shall be tested according ISO 6721 ‘Plastics — Determination of dynamic mechanical properties’. The Tg-onset is derived from the plotted diagram storage modulus versus temperature by determining the temperature, where the two tangents, which are representing the slopes of the diagram before and after the dramatic loss of stiffness, intersects.


ANNEX 11

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF GAS INJECTION DEVICES, OR GAS MIXING PIECES, OR INJECTORS AND THE FUEL RAIL

Gas injection device or injector

1.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.10. of this Regulation.

1.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.): Class 1.

1.3.   Classification pressure: 3 000 kPa.

1.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

1.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.2.1., Provisions regarding the insulation class.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions when the power is switched off.

Paragraph 6.15.4.1., Heat exchange medium (compatibility and pressure requirements).

1.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

Gas injection device or gas mixing piece

2.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.10. of this Regulation.

2.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Class 2

:

for the part with a maximum regulated pressure during operation of 450 kPa.

Class 2A

:

for the part with a maximum regulated pressure during operation of 120 kPa.

2.3.   Classification pressure:

Parts of Class 2:

450 kPa.

Parts of Class 2A:

120 kPa.

2.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C, when the fuel pump is mounted outside the container.

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

2.5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.2.1., Provisions regarding the insulation class.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions when the power is switched off.

Paragraph 6.15.4.1., Heat exchange medium (compatibility and pressure requirements).

2.6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Fuel rail

3.1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.18. of this Regulation.

3.2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Fuel rails can be of Class 1, 2 or 2A.

3.3.   Classification pressure:

Parts of Class 1:

3 000  kPa.

Parts of Class 2:

450 kPa.

Parts of Class 2A:

120 kPa.

3.4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

3.5.   General design rules: (not used)

Applicable test procedures:

3.6.1.   For fuel rails of Class 1:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

3.6.2.   For fuel rails of Class 2 and/or 2A:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 12

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE GAS DOSAGE UNIT WHEN NOT COMBINED WITH THE GAS INJECTION DEVICE(S)

1.   Definition: see paragraph 2.11. of this Regulation.

2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Class 2

:

for the part with a maximum regulated pressure during operation of 450 kPa.

Class 2A

:

for the part with a maximum regulated pressure during operation of 120 kPa.

3.   Classification pressure:

Parts of Class 2:

450 kPa.

Parts of Class 2A:

120 kPa.

4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.3.1., Provisions on valves activated by electrical power.

Paragraph 6.15.4., Heat exchange medium (compatibility and pressure requirements).

Paragraph 6.15.5., Overpressure bypass security.

6.   Applicable test procedures:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Remarks:

The parts of the gas dosage unit (Class 2 or 2A) shall be leakproof with the outlet(s) of that part closed.

For the overpressure test all the outlets including those of the coolant compartment shall be closed off.


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 13

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE PRESSURE AND/OR TEMPERATURE SENSOR

1.   Definition:

Pressure sensor: see paragraph 2.13. of this Regulation.

Temperature sensor: see paragraph 2.13. of this Regulation.

2.   Component classification (according to Figure 1, para. 2.):

Pressure and temperature sensors can be of Class 1, 2 or 2A.

3.   Classification pressure:

Parts of Class 1:

3 000  kPa.

Parts of Class 2:

450 kPa.

Parts of Class 2A:

120 kPa.

4.   Design temperatures:

–20 °C to 120 °C

For temperatures exceeding the above-mentioned values, special tests conditions are applicable.

5.   General design rules:

Paragraph 6.15.2., Provisions regarding the electrical insulation.

Paragraph 6.15.4.1., Heat exchange medium (compatibility and pressure requirements).

Paragraph 6.15.6.2., Gas flow prevention.

Applicable test procedures:

6.1.   For parts of Class 1:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 15, para. 13 (*1)

Ozone ageing

Annex 15, para. 14 (*1)

Creep

Annex 15, para. 15 (*1)

Temperature cycle

Annex 15, para. 16 (*1)

6.2.   For parts of Class 2 or 2A:

Over pressure test

Annex 15, para. 4

External leakage

Annex 15, para. 5

High temperature

Annex 15, para. 6

Low temperature

Annex 15, para. 7

LPG compatibility

Annex 15, para. 11 (*1)

Corrosion resistance

Annex 15, para. 12 (*2)


(*1)  Only for non-metallic parts.

(*2)  Only for metallic parts.


ANNEX 14

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT

1.   The electronic control unit can be any device which controls the LPG demand of the engine and establishes the cut-off of the remotely-controlled service valve(s), cut-off valves and fuel pump of the LPG-system in case of a broken fuel supply pipe or/and in case of stalling of the engine.

2.   The switching off delay of the service cut-off valves after stalling of the engine may not be more then 5 seconds.

3.   The electronic control unit shall comply with relevant electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements according to Regulation No 10, 02 series of amendments or equivalent.

4.   Electrical failure of the vehicle system may not lead to uncontrolled opening of any valve.

5.   The output of the electronic control unit shall be inactive when the electric power is switched off or removed.


ANNEX 15

TEST PROCEDURES

1.   Classification

1.1.   LPG components for use in vehicles shall be classified with regard to the maximum operating pressure and function, according to Chapter 2 of this Regulation.

1.2   The classification of the components determines the tests which have to be performed for type approval of the components or parts of the components.

2.   Applicable test procedures

In Table 1 the applicable test procedures dependent on the classification are shown.

Table 1

Test

Class 1

Class 2(A)

Class 3

Paragraph

Overpressure

x

x

x

4.

External leakage

x

x

x

5.

High temperature

x

x

x

6.

Low temperature

x

x

x

7.

Seat leakage

x

 

x

8.

Endurance/Functional tests

x

 

x

9.

Operational test

 

 

x

10.

LPG compatibility

x

x

x

11.

Corrosion resistance

x

x

x

12.

Resistance to dry heat

x

 

x

13.

Ozone ageing

x

 

x

14.

Creep

x

 

x

15.

Temperature cycle

x

 

x

16.

Compatibility with heat exchange fluid

 

x

 

 

3.   General requirements

3.1.   Leakage tests shall have to be conducted with pressurized gas like air or nitrogen.

3.2.   Water or another fluid may be used to obtain the required pressure for the hydrostatic strength test.

3.3.   All test values shall indicate the type of test medium used, if applicable.

3.4.   The test period for leakage- and hydrostatic strength-tests shall be not less than 1 minute.

3.5.   All tests shall be performed at a room temperature of 20 ± 5 °C, unless otherwise stated.

4.   Overpressure test under hydraulic conditions

A LPG containing component shall withstand without any visible evidence of rupture or permanent distortion a hydraulic test pressure which is determined by Table 1 (of 2,25 times the maximum classification pressure) during minimal 1 minute with the outlet of the high pressure part plugged.

The samples, previously subjected to the durability test of paragraph 9. are to be connected to a source of hydrostatic pressure. A positive shut-off valve and a pressure gauge, having a pressure range of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure, are to be installed in the hydrostatic pressure supply piping.

Table 2 shows the classification pressure and the pressures to be used in the over-pressure test according to the classification:

Table 2

Classification of component

Classification pressure

[kPa]

Hydraulic test pressure for over-pressure test

[kPa]

Class 1, 3

3 000

6 750

Class 2A

120

270

Class 2

450

1 015

5.   External leakage test

5.1.   A component shall be free from leakage through stem or body seals or other joints, and shall not show evidence of porosity in casting when tested as described in paragraph 5.3. at any aerostatic pressure between 0 and the pressure shown in Table 3. The above prescriptions are deemed to be satisfied, if the provisions of paragraph 5.4. are met.

5.2.   The test shall be performed at the following conditions:

(i)

at room temperature

(ii)

at the minimum operating temperature

(iii)

at the maximum operating temperature

The maximum and minimum operating temperatures are given in the annexes.

5.3.   During this test the equipment under test (EUT) will be connected to a source of aerostatic pressure (of 1,5 times the maximum pressure and in the case of a Class 3 component, 2,25 times the maximum classification pressure). A positive shut-off valve and a pressure gauge having a pressure range of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure are to be installed in the pressure supply piping. The pressure gauge is to be installed between the positive shut-off valve and the sample under test. While under the applied test pressure, the sample should be submerged in water to detect leakage or any other equivalent test method (flow measurement or pressure drop).

Table 3

The classification and leakage test pressures according to the classification

Classification of component

Classification pressure

[kPa]

Test pressure for leakage test

[kPa]

Class 1

3 000

4 500

Class 2A

120

180

Class 2

450

675

Class 3

3 000

6 750

5.4.   The external leakage must be lower than the requirements stated in the annexes or, if no requirements are mentioned, the external leakage shall be lower than 15 cm3/hour with the outlet plugged, when submitted to a gas pressure equal to the leakage test pressure.

6.   High temperature test

A LPG containing component shall not leak more than 15 cm3/hour with the outlet plugged when submitted to a gas pressure at maximum operating temperature, as indicated in the annexes, equal to the leakage test pressure (Table 3, paragraph 5.3.). The component shall be conditioned for at least 8 hours at this temperature.

7.   Low temperature test

A LPG containing component shall not leak more than 15 cm3/hour with the outlet plugged when submitted to a gas pressure, at the minimum operating temperature (–20 °C), equal to the leakage test pressure (Table 3, paragraph 5.3.). The component shall be conditioned for at least 8 hours at this temperature.

8.   Seat leakage test

The following tests for seat leakage are to be conducted on samples of service valve or filling unit which have previously been subjected to the external leak test of paragraph 5. above.

8.1.1.   Seat leakage tests are conducted with the inlet of the sample valve connected to a source of aerostatic pressure, the valve in the closed position, and with the outlet open. A positive shut-off valve and a pressure gauge having a pressure range of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure are to be installed in the pressure supply piping. The pressure gauge is to be installed between the positive shut-off valve and the sample under test. While under the applied test pressure, observations for leakage are to be made with the open outlet submerged in water unless otherwise indicated.

8.1.2.   Conformance with paragraphs 8.2. to 8.8. below is to be determined by connecting a length of tubing to the valve outlet. The open end of this outlet tube is to be located within an inverted graduated cylinder which is calibrated in cubic centimetres. The inverted cylinder is to be closed by a water seal. The apparatus is to be adjusted so that:

(1)

the end of the outlet tube is located approximately 13 mm above the water level within the inverted graduated cylinder, and

(2)

the water within and exterior to the graduated cylinder is at the same level. With these adjustments made, the water level within the graduated cylinder is to be recorded. With the valve in the closed position assumed as the result of normal operation, air or nitrogen at the specified test pressure is to be applied to the valve inlet for a test period of not less than 2 minutes. During this time, the vertical position of the graduated cylinder is to be adjusted, if necessary, to maintain the same water level within and exterior to it.

At the end of the test period and with the water within and exterior to the graduated cylinder at the same level, the level of water within the graduated cylinder is again recorded. From the change of volume within the graduated cylinder, the leakage rate is to be calculated according to the following formula:

Formula

where:

V1

=

leakage rate, cubic centimetres of air or nitrogen per hour.

Vt

=

increase in volume within graduated cylinder during test.

t

=

time of test, minutes.

P

=

barometric pressure during test, in kPa.

T

=

ambient temperature during test, in K.

8.1.3.   Instead of the method described above, leakage may be measured by a flowmeter installed on the inlet side of the valve under test. The flowmeter shall be capable of indicating accurately, for the test fluid employed, the maximum leakage flow rates permitted.

8.2.   The seat of a shut-off valve, when in the closed position, shall be free from leakage at any aerostatic pressure between 0 to 3 000 kPa.

8.3.   A non-return valve provided with a resilient seat, when in the closed position, shall not leak when subjected to any aerostatic pressure between 50 and 3 000 kPa.

8.4.   A non-return valve provided with a metal-to-metal seat, when in the closed position, shall not leak at a rate exceeding 0,50 dm3/hour when subjected to an inlet pressure up to the test pressure according to Table 3 in paragraph 5.3.

8.5.   The seat of the upper non-return valve used in the assembly of a filling unit, when in the closed position, shall be free from leakage at any aerostatic pressure between 50 and 3 000 kPa.

8.6.   The seat of a service coupling, when in the closed position, shall be free from leakage at any aerostatic pressure between 0 to 3 000 kPa.

8.7.   The gas-tube pressure relief valve shall not have internal leakage up to 3 000 kPa.

8.8.   The pressure relief valve (discharge valve) shall not have internal leakage up to 2 600 kPa.

9.   Endurance test

9.1.   A filling unit or service valve shall be capable of conforming to the applicable leakage test requirements of paragraphs 5. and 8. above, after being subjected to a number of cycles of opening and closing as mentioned in the annexes.

9.2.   A shut-off valve is to be tested with the valve outlet plugged. The valve body filled with n-hexane, and the valve inlet subjected to a pressure of 3 000 kPa.

9.3.   An endurance test is to be conducted at a rate not faster than 10 times per minute. For a shut-off valve, the closing torque is to be consistent with the size of handwheel, wrench, or other means employed to operate the valve.

9.4.   The appropriate tests for external and seat leakage, as described under external leakage test under paragraph 5. and seat leakage test under paragraph 8. are to be conducted immediately following the endurance test.

Endurance for 80 per cent stop valve

9.5.1.   The 80 per cent stop valve shall be capable to withstand 6 000 complete filling cycles to the maximum filling degree.

10.   Operational tests

Operation test of the (gas-tube) pressure relief valve

10.1.1.   In the case of pressure relief valves, three samples of each size, design, and setting are to be used for start-to-discharge and resealing pressure tests. This same set of three valves is to be used for flow capacity tests for other observations indicated in the following paragraphs.

Not less than two successive start-to-discharge and resealing pressure observations are to be made on each of the three test valves under test No 1 and 3 of paragraphs 10.1.2. and 10.1.4. below.

Start-to-discharge and resealing pressures of pressure relief valves — test No 1

10.1.2.1.   Before being subjected to a flow capacity test, the start-to-discharge pressure of each of three samples of a pressure relief valve of a specific size, design, and setting shall be within ±3 per cent of the average of the pressures, but the start-to-discharge pressure of any one of the three valves shall be not less than 95 per cent, not more than 105 per cent, of the set pressure marked on the valve.

10.1.2.2.   The resealing pressure of a pressure relief valve before being subjected to a flow capacity test shall be not less than 50 per cent of the initially observed start-to-discharge pressure.

10.1.2.3.   A pressure relief is to be connected to an air or other aerostatic supply source capable of being maintained at a pressure of at least 500 kPa effective pressure above the marked set pressure of the valve being tested. A positive shut-off valve and a pressure gauge having a pressure range of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure are to be installed in the pressure supply piping. The pressure gauge is to be installed in the piping between the valve being tested and the positive shut-off valve. Start-to-discharge and resealing pressure are to be observed through a water seal not over 100 mm in depth.

10.1.2.4.   After recording the start-to-discharge pressure of the valve, the pressure is to be increased sufficiently above the start-to-discharge pressure to ensure unseating of the valve. The shut-off valve is then to be closed tightly and the water seal, as well as the pressure gauge, are to be observed closely. The pressure at which bubbles through the water seal cease is to be recorded as the resealing pressure of the valve.

Flow capacity of pressure relief valves — test No 2

10.1.3.1.   The flow capacity of each of three samples of a pressure relief valve of a specific size, design, and setting shall fall within a range of 10 per cent of the highest observed capacity.

10.1.3.2.   During flow capacity tests on each valve, there shall be no evidence of chattering or other abnormal operating condition.

10.1.3.3.   The blow-down pressure of each valve shall be not less than 65 per cent of the initially recorded start-to-discharge pressure.

10.1.3.4.   A flow capacity test on a pressure relief valve is to be conducted at a flow rating pressure of 120 per cent of the maximum set pressure.

10.1.3.5.   A flow capacity test on a pressure relief valve is to be conducted by utilizing a properly designed and calibrated orifice flowmeter of the flange type connected to a source of air supply of adequate capacity and pressure. Modifications of the flowmeter from that described herein, and an aerostatic flow medium other than air, may be used provided the end results are the same.

10.1.3.6.   The flowmeter is to be arranged with sufficiently long lengths of pipe both preceding and following the orifice, or other arrangements including straightening vanes, to assure no disturbance at the orifice place for the ratios of orifice to pipe diameters to be employed.

Flanges between which the orifice plate is located and clamped are to be provided with pressure take-off lines connected to a manometer. This instrument indicates the pressure differential across the orifice plate and the reading is used in the flow calculation. A calibrated pressure gauge is to be installed in that portion of the meter pipe downstream of the orifice plate. This gauge indicates the flow pressure and the reading is also used in the flow calculation.

10.1.3.7.   A temperature-indicating instrument is to be connected to the meter pipe downstream of the orifice plate to indicate the temperature of the air flowing to the safety valve. The reading of this instrument is to be integrated in the calculation to correct the temperature of the air flow to a 15 °C base temperature. A barometer is to be available for indicating the prevailing atmospheric pressure.

The reading of the barometer is to be added to the indicated air-flow gauge pressure. This absolute pressure is similarly to be integrated in the flow calculation. The air pressure to the flowmeter is to be controlled by a suitable valve installed in the air-supply piping ahead of the flowmeter. The pressure relief valve under test is to be connected to the discharge end of the flowmeter.

10.1.3.8.   After all preparations for flow capacity tests have been made, the valve in the air-supply line is to be opened slowly and the pressure to the valve under test is to be increased to the appropriate flow rating pressure. During this interval, the pressure at which the valve ‘pops’ open is to be recorded as the popping pressure.

10.1.3.9.   The predetermined flow rating pressure is to be maintained constant for a brief interval until the readings of the instruments become stabilized. Readings of the flow pressure gauge, pressure differential manometer, and the flowing air temperature indicator are to be recorded simultaneously. The pressure is then to be decreased until there is no further discharge from the valve.

The pressure at which this occurs is to be recorded as the blow-down pressure of the valve.

10.1.3.10.   From the recorded data and the known orifice coefficient of the flowmeter, the air-flow capacity of the pressure relief valve tested is to be calculated using the following formula:

Formula

where:

Q

=

Flow capacity of pressure relief valve — in m3/min. of air at 100 kPa absolute and 15 °C.

Fb

=

Basic orifice factor of flowmeter at 100 kPa absolute and 15 °C.

Ft

=

Flowing air temperature factor to convert recorded temperature to base of 15 °C.

h

=

Differential pressure across orifice of meter in kPa.

p

=

Flowing air pressure to pressure relief valve — in kPa absolute (recorded gauge pressure plus recorded barometric pressure).

60

=

Denominator to convert equation from m3/hour to m3/min.

10.1.3.11.   The average flow capacity of the three pressure relief valves rounded off to the nearest five units is to be taken as the flow capacity of the valve of that specific size, design, and setting.

Recheck start-to-discharge and resealing pressures of pressure-relief-valves test No 3

10.1.4.1.   Subsequent to flow capacity tests, the start-to-discharge pressure of a pressure relief valve shall be not less than 85 per cent, and the resealing pressure shall be not less than 80 per cent of the initial start-to-discharge and resealing pressures recorded under test No 1 of paragraph 10.1.2.

10.1.4.2.   These tests are to be conducted approximately 1 hour after the flow capacity test, and the test procedure is to be the same as described under test No 1 of paragraph 10.1.2.

Operation test excess flow valve

10.2.1.   An excess flow valve shall operate at not more than 10 per cent above, nor less than 20 per cent below the rated closing flow capacity specified by the manufacturer, and shall close automatically at a pressure differential across the valve of not more than 100 kPa during the operation tests described below.

10.2.2.   Three samples of each size and style of valve are to be subjected to these tests. A valve intended for use only with liquid is to be tested with water, otherwise the tests are to be made both with air and with water. Except as indicated in paragraph 10.2.3., separate tests are to be run with each sample installed in vertical, horizontal and inverted positions. The tests with air to be made without piping or other restriction connected to the outlet of the tests sample.

10.2.3.   A valve intended for installation in one position only may be tested only in that position.

10.2.4.   The test with air is to be conducted by utilizing a properly designed and calibrated orifice flowmeter of the flange type, connected to a source of air supply of adequate capacity and pressure.

10.2.5.   The test sample is to be connected to the outlet of the flowmeter. A manometer or calibrated pressure-gauge reading in increments of not more than 3 kPa is to be installed on the upstream side of the test sample to indicate the closing pressure.

10.2.6.   The test is conducted by slowly increasing the flow of air through the flowmeter until the check valve closes. At the instant of closing, the pressure differential across the flowmeter orifice and the closing pressure indicated by the gauge are to be recorded. The rate of flow at closing is then to be calculated.

10.2.7.   Other types of flowmeters and a gas, other than air, may be used.

10.2.8.   The test with water is to be conducted using a liquid flowmeter (or equivalent) installed in a piping system having sufficient pressure to provide the required flow. The system is to include an inlet piezometer or pipe at least one pipe size larger than the valve to be tested, with a flow control valve connected between the flowmeter and piezometer. A hose or hydrostatic relief valve, or both, may be used to reduce the effect of the pressure shock when the excess flow valve closes.

10.2.9.   The test sample is to be connected to the outlet end of the piezometer. A manometer or calibrated pressure gauge of the retard type, which will permit readings in the range of 0 to 1 440 kPa is to be connected to a pressure take-off on the upstream side of the test sample to indicate the closing pressure. The connection is to be made using a length of rubber hose between the pressure gauge and the pressure take-off, with a valve installed at the gauge inlet to permit bleeding air from the system.

10.2.10.   Prior to the test, the flow control valve is to be opened slightly, with the bleed valve at the pressure gauge open, to eliminate air from the system. The bleed valve is then to be closed and the test is conducted by slowly increasing the flow until the check valve closes. During the test the pressure gauge is to be positioned at the same level as the test sample. At the instant of closing, the rate of flow and closing pressure are to be recorded. When the excess flow valve is at cut-off position, the leakage or by-pass rate of flow is to be recorded.

10.2.11.   An excess flow valve used in the assembly of a filling unit shall close automatically at a pressure differential of not more than 138 kPa when tested as described below.

10.2.12.   Three samples of each size of valve are to be subjected to these tests. The tests are to be made with air, and separate tests are to be run with each sample mounted vertically and horizontally. The tests are to be conducted as described in paragraphs 10.2.4. to 10.2.7., with a filling unit hose coupling connected to the test sample and with the upper non-return valve held in the open position.

Charging-speed-test

10.3.1.   Testing of the good function of the device limiting the filling degree of the container has to be performed by filling speeds of 20, 50 and 80 l/min or to the maximum flow rate under an upstream pressure of 700 kPa abs.

Endurance-test for the filling limiter

The device limiting the filling degree of the container shall be capable of withstanding 6 000 complete filling cycles to the maximum filling degree.

10.4.1.   Scope

Any device limiting the filling degree of the container and operating by a float, after having been subjected to the tests verifying that:

It limits the degree of filling of the container to 80 per cent or less of its capacity;

It does not allow — at the cut-off position — any filling of the container at a rate exceeding 0,5 litre/minute,

Shall be subjected to one of the test procedures laid down in paragraph 10.5.5. or 10.5.6. below to ensure that the device is constructed to withstand expected dynamic vibrational stresses and to ensure that performance degradations or malfunctions will not be produced by the service vibration environment.

Vibration test procedure

10.5.1.   Equipment and mounting techniques

The test item shall be attached to the vibration equipment by its normal mounting means, either directly to the vibration exciter or transition table, or by means of a rigid fixture capable of transmitting the specified vibration conditions. Equipment used to measure and/or record the acceleration level or amplitude level and the frequency shall have an accuracy of at least 10 per cent of the measured value.

10.5.2.   Choice of procedure

At the choice of the authority granting type-approval the tests shall be performed according to either procedure A described in paragraph 10.5.5. or procedure B described in paragraph 10.5.6.

10.5.3.   General

The following tests shall be carried out along each of the three orthogonal axes of the test item.

Procedure A

10.5.4.1.   Resonance search

Resonant frequencies of the filling limiter shall be determined by varying the frequency of applied vibration slowly through the specified range at reduced test levels but with sufficient amplitude to excite the item. Sinusoidal resonance search may be performed using the test level and cycling time specified for the cycling test, provided the resonance search time is included in the required cycling test time of paragraph 10.5.5.3.

10.5.4.2.   Resonance dwell test

The test item shall be vibrated for 30 minutes along each axis at the most severe resonant frequencies determined in paragraph 10.5.5.1. The test level shall be 1,5 g (14,7 m/sec2). If more than four significant resonant frequencies are found for any one axis, the four most severe resonant frequencies shall be chosen for this test. If a change in the resonant frequency occurs during the test, its time of occurrence shall be recorded and immediately the frequency shall be adjusted to maintain the peak resonance condition. The final resonant frequency shall be recorded. The total dwell test time shall be included in the required cycling test time of paragraph 10.5.5.3.

10.5.4.3.   Sinusoidal cycling test

The test item shall be sinusoidally vibrated for three hours along each of its orthogonal axes in accordance with:

an acceleration level of 1,5 g (14,7 m/sec2),

a frequency range of 5 to 200 Hz,

a sweep time of 12 minutes.

The frequency of applied vibration shall be swept over the specified range logarithmically.

The specified sweep time is that of an ascending plus a descending sweep.

Procedure B

10.5.5.1.   The test shall be performed on a sinusoidal vibrating bench, at a constant acceleration of 1,5 g and at frequencies ranging between 5 and 200 Hz. The test shall last for 5 hours for each of the axes specified in paragraph 10.5.4. The frequency band 5-200 Hz shall be covered in each of the two senses in 15 minutes.

10.5.5.2.   Alternatively, in case the test is not conducted by utilizing a constant acceleration bench, the frequency band from 5 to 200 Hz has to be subdivided in 11 semi-octave bands, each of them covered by a constant amplitude, so that the theoretical acceleration is included between 1 and 2 g (g = 9,8 m/sec2).

Vibration amplitudes for each band are as follows:

Amplitude in mm (crest value)

Frequency in Hz (for acceleration = 1g)

Frequency in Hz (for acceleration = 2g)

10

5

7

5

7

10

2,50

10

14

1,25

14

20

0,60

20

29

0,30

29

41

0,15

41

57

0,08

57

79

0,04

79

111

0,02

111

157

0,01

157

222

Each band shall be covered in both directions in 2 minutes, 30 minutes totally for each band.

10.5.6.   Specification

After having been subjected to one of the vibration test procedures described above the device shall show no mechanical failures and is deemed to conform to the vibration test requirements only in the case the values of its characteristic parameters:

filling degree at the cut-off position,

filling rate allowed at the cut-off position,

do not exceed the prescribed limits and are not exceeding by more than 10 per cent the values preceding the vibration test procedure.

11.   LPG compatibility tests for synthetic materials

11.1.   A synthetic part in contact with LPG-liquid shall not show excessive volume change or loss of weight.

Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

11.2.   Requirements:

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

12.   Corrosion resistance

A metal LPG containing component shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in 4, 5, 6 and 7 and after having been submitted to 144 hours salt spray test according to ISO 9227, with all connections closed.

or an optional test:

A metal LPG containing component shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in 4, 5, 6 and 7 and after having been submitted to a salt spray test according to IEC 68-2-52 Kb: Salt Spray Fog Test.

Test procedure:

Before the test the component shall be cleaned according to the instructions of the manufacturer. All the connections shall be closed off. The component shall not be operated during the test.

Subsequently the component shall be submitted during 2 hours to spraying with a solution of salt, containing 5 per cent NaCl (mass per cent) with less than 0,3 per cent contamination and 95 per cent distilled or demineralised water, at a temperature of 20 °C. After the spraying the component is stored at temperature of 40 °C and 90-95 per cent relative humidity for 168 hours. This sequence shall be repeated 4 times.

After the test the component shall be cleaned and dried during 1 hour at 55 °C. The component shall now be conditioned to reference conditions during 4 hours, before submitting it to further testing.

12.2.   A copper or brass LPG containing component shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in 4, 5, 6 and 7 and after having been submitted to 24 hours immersion in Ammonia according to ISO 6957 with all connections closed.

13.   Resistance to dry-heat

The test has to be done in compliance with ISO 188. The test piece has to be exposed to air at a temperature equal to the maximum operating temperature for 168 hours.

The allowable change in tensile strength should not exceed +25 per cent.

The allowable change in ultimate elongation shall not exceed the following values:

Maximum increase 10 per cent

Maximum decrease 30 per cent

14.   Ozone ageing

14.1.   The test has to be in compliance with ISO 1431/1.

The test piece, which has to be stressed to 20 per cent elongation shall be exposed to air at 40 °C with an ozone concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 72 hours.

14.2.   No cracking of the test piece is allowed.

15.   Creep

A non metallic part containing liquid LPG shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in paragraphs 5., 6. and 7. after having been submitted to a hydraulic pressure of 2,25 times the maximum operating pressure at a temperature of 120 °C during minimal 96 hours. Water or any other suitable hydraulic fluid may be used as a test medium.

16.   Temperature cycle test

A non-metallic part containing liquid LPG shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in paragraphs 5., 6. and 7. after having been submitted to a 96 hours temperature cycle from the minimum operating temperature up to the maximum operating temperature with a cycle time of 120 minutes, under maximum working pressure.

17.   Compatibility with heat exchange fluids of non-metallic parts

17.1.   Test samples shall be submerged in heat exchange medium for 168 hours at 90 °C; then they shall be dried for 48 hours at a temperature of 40 °C. The composition of the heat exchange medium used for the test is water/ethylene-glycol fluid of 50 %/50 %.

17.2.   The test is deemed to be satisfactory if the change in volume is less than 20 per cent, the change in mass is less than 5 per cent, the change in tensile strength is less than –25 per cent and the change in elongation at break is within –30 per cent and +10 per cent.


ANNEX 16

PROVISIONS REGARDING LPG IDENTIFICATION MARK FOR M2 AND M3 CATEGORY VEHICLES

Image 37

LPG

The sign consists of a sticker which must be weather resistant.

The colour and dimensions of the sticker must fulfil the following requirements:

Colours:

 

Background:

green

Border:

white or white reflecting

Letters:

white or white reflecting

Dimensions

 

Border width:

4-6 mm

Character height:

≥ 25 mm

Character thickness:

≥ 4 mm

Sticker width:

110-150 mm

Sticker height:

80-110 mm

The word ‘LPG’ must be centred in the middle of the sticker.


ANNEX 17

PROVISIONS REGARDING IDENTIFICATION MARK FOR SERVICE COUPLING

Image 38

FOR SERVICE PURPOSES ONLY

The sign consists of a sticker which must be weather resistant.

The colour and dimensions of the sticker must fulfil the following requirements:

Colours:

 

Background:

red

Letters:

white or white reflecting

Dimensions

 

Character height:

≥ 5 mm

Character thickness:

≥ 1 mm

Sticker width:

70-90 mm

Sticker height:

20-30 mm

The text ‘FOR SERVICE PURPOSES ONLY’ must be centred in the middle of the sticker.


14.3.2008   

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 72/113


Only the original UN/ECE texts have legal effect under international public law. The status and date of entry into force of this Regulation should be checked in the latest version of the UN/ECE status document TRANS/WP.29/343, available at: http://www.unece.org/trans/main/wp29/wp29wgs/wp29gen/wp29fdocstts.html.

Regulation No 110 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE) — Uniform provisions concerning the approval of:

I.

Specific components of motor vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG) in their propulsion system;

II.

Vehicles with regard to the installation of specific components of an approved type for the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) in their propulsion system

Addendum 109: Regulation No 110

Supplement 6 to the original version of the Regulation — Date of entry into force: 18 June 2007

CONTENTS

REGULATION

1.

Scope

2.

Definition and classification of components

PART I

3.

Application for approval

4.

Markings

5.

Approval

6.

Specifications regarding CNG components

7.

Modifications of a type of CNG component and extension of approval

8.

(Not allocated)

9.

Conformity of production

10.

Penalties for non-conformity of production

11.

(Not allocated)

12.

Production definitely discontinued

13.

Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests, and of administrative departments

PART II

14.

Definitions

15.

Application for approval

16.

Approval

17.

Requirements for the installation of specific components for the use of compressed natural gas in the propulsion system of a vehicle

18.

Conformity of production

19.

Penalties for non-conformity of production

20.

Modification and extension of approval of a vehicle type

21.

Production definitely discontinued

22.

Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests, and of administrative departments

ANNEXES

Annex 1A —

Essential characteristics of the CNG component

Annex 1B —

Essential characteristics of the vehicle, engine and CNG-related system

Annex 2A —

Arrangement of the CNG component type-approval mark

Annex 2B —

Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a type of CNG component pursuant to Regulation No 110

Addendum —

Additional information concerning the type-approval of a type of CNG components pursuant to Regulation No 110

Annex 2C —

Arrangement of approval marks

Annex 2D —

Communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of CNG system pursuant to Regulation No 110

Annex 3 —

Gas cylinders — High pressure cylinder for the on-board storage of natural gas as a fuel for automotive vehicles

Appendix A —

Test methods

Appendix B —

(Not allocated)

Appendix C —

(Not allocated)

Appendix D —

Report Forms

Appendix E —

Verification of stress ratios using strain gauges

Appendix F —

Fracture performance methods

Appendix G —

Instructions by the container manufacturer regarding handling, use and inspection of cylinders

Appendix H —

Environmental test

Annex 4A —

Provisions regarding the approval of the automatic valve, non-return valve, the pressure relief valve, pressure relief device and the excess flow valve

Annex 4B —

Provisions regarding the approval of flexible fuel lines or hoses

Annex 4C —

Provisions regarding the approval of the CNG filter

Annex 4D —

Provisions regarding the approval of the pressure regulator

Annex 4E —

Provisions regarding the approval of the pressure and temperature sensors

Annex 4F —

Provisions regarding the approval of the filling unit

Annex 4G —

Provisions regarding the approval of gas flow adjuster and gas/air mixer or injector

Annex 4H —

Provisions regarding the approval of the electronic control unit

Annex 5 —

Test procedures

Annex 5A —

Overpressure test (Strength test)

Annex 5B —

External leakage test

Annex 5C —

Internal leakage test

Annex 5D —

CNG compatibility test

Annex 5E —

Corrosion resistance test

Annex 5F —

Resistance to dry heat

Annex 5G —

Ozone ageing

Annex 5H —

Temperature cycle test

Annex 5I —

Pressure cycle test applicable only to cylinders (see annex 3)

Annex 5J —

(Not allocated)

Annex 5K —

(Not allocated)

Annex 5L —

Durability test (Continued operation)

Annex 5M —

Burst/destructive test applicable only to cylinders (see annex 3)

Annex 5N —

Vibration resistance test

Annex 5O —

Operating temperatures

Annex 6 —

Provisions regarding CNG identification mark for public service vehicles

1.   SCOPE

This Regulation applies to:

Part I

:

Specific components for vehicles of category M and N (1) using compressed natural gas (CNG) in their propulsion system;

Part II

:

Vehicles of category M and N (1) with regard to the installation of specific components, for the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) for propulsion, of an approved type.

2.   DEFINITION AND CLASSIFICATION OF COMPONENTS

CNG components for use in vehicles shall be classified with regard to the working pressure and function, according to figure 1-1.

Class 0

High pressure parts including tubes and fittings containing CNG at a pressure higher than 3 MPa and up to 26 MPa.

Class 1

Medium pressure parts including tubes and fittings containing CNG at a pressure higher than 450 kPa and up to 3 000 kPa (3 MPa).

Class 2

Low pressure parts including tubes and fittings containing CNG at a pressure higher than 20 kPa and up to 450 kPa.

Class 3

Medium pressure parts as safety valves or protected by safety valve including tubes and fittings containing CNG at a pressure higher than 450 kPa and up to 3 000 kPa (3 MPa).

Class 4

Parts in contact with gas subject to the pressure lower than 20 kPa.

A component can consist of several parts, each part classified in its own class with regard to maximum working pressure and function.

‘Pressure’ means relative pressure versus atmospheric pressure, unless otherwise stated.

2.1.1.    ‘Service pressure’ means the settled pressure at a uniform gas temperature of 15 °C.

2.1.2.    ‘Test pressure’ means the pressure to which a component is taken during acceptance testing.

2.1.3.    ‘Working pressure’ means the maximum pressure to which a component is designed to be subjected to and which is the basis for determining the strength of the component under consideration.

2.1.4.    ‘Operating temperatures’ means maximum values of the temperature ranges, indicated in Annex 5O, at which safe and good functioning of the specific component is ensured and for which it has been designed and approved.

‘Specific component’ means:

(a)

container (or cylinder),

(b)

accessories fitted to the cylinder

(c)

pressure regulator,

(d)

automatic valve,

(e)

manual valve,

(f)

gas supply device,

(g)

gas flow adjuster,

(h)

flexible fuel line,

(i)

rigid fuel line,

(j)

filling unit or receptacle,

(k)

non-return valve or non-return valve,

(l)

pressure relief valve (discharge valve),

(m)

pressure relief device (temperature triggered),

(n)

filter,

(o)

pressure or temperature sensor/indicator,

(p)

excess flow valve,

(q)

service valve,

(r)

electronic control unit,

(s)

gas-tight housing,

(t)

fitting,

(u)

ventilation hose.

Many of the components mentioned above can be combined or fitted together as a ‘multi-functional component’.

Fig. 1-1

Flow scheme for CNG components classification

Image 39

START

In contact with gas

No

Yes

P0 > 3 000 kPa

Yes

P0 > 26 000 kPa

No

No

Yes

450 < P0 < 3 000 kPa

Yes

Safety valve

No

No

Yes

20 < P0 < 450 kPa

No

Yes

Class 4

Class 2

Class 1

Class 3

Class 0

Not subject to this regulation

STOP

Fig. 1-2

Tests applicable to specific classes of components (excluding cylinders)

Performance Test

Over-pressure Strength Test

Leakage Test (external)

Leakage Test (internal)

Continued Operation Durability Test

Corrosion Resistance

Ozone Ageing

CNG Compatibility

Vibration Resistance

Dry — Heat Resistance

 

Annex 5A

Annex 5B

Annex 5C

Annex 5L

Annex 5E

Annex 5G

Annex 5D

Annex 5N

Annex 5F

Class 0

X

X

A

A

X

X

X

X

X

Class 1

X

X

A

A

X

X

X

X

X

Class 2

X

X

A

A

X

A

X

X

A

Class 3

X

X

A

A

X

X

X

X

X

Class 4

O

O

O

O

X

A

X

O

A

X

=

Applicable

O

=

Not applicable

A

=

As applicable

‘Container’ (or cylinder) means any vessel used for the storage of compressed natural gas;

2.3.1.   A container can be:

CNG-1

:

metal;

CNG-2

:

metal liner reinforced with resin impregnated continuous filament (hoop wrapped);

CNG-3

:

metal liner reinforced with resin impregnated continuous filament (fully wrapped);

CNG-4

:

resin impregnated continuous filament with a non-metallic liner (all composite).

2.4.    ‘Type of container’ means containers which do not differ in respect of the dimensional and material characteristics as specified in annex 3.

‘Accessories fitted to the container’ means the following components (but not limited to them), either separate or combined, when fitted to the container:

2.5.1.   Manual valve;

2.5.2.   Pressure sensor/indicator;

2.5.3.   Pressure relief valve (discharge valve);

2.5.4.   Pressure relief device (temperature triggered);

2.5.5.   Automatic cylinder valve;

2.5.6.   Excess flow valve;

2.5.7.   Gas-tight housing.

2.6.    ‘Valve’ means a device by which the flow of a fluid may be controlled.

2.7.    ‘Automatic valve’ mans a valve which is not operated manually.

2.8.    ‘Automatic cylinder valve’ means an automatic valve rigidly fixed to the cylinder which controls the flow of gas to the fuel system. The automatic cylinder valve is also called remote-controlled service valve.

2.9.    ‘Non-return valve’ means an automatic valve which allows gas to flow in only one direction.

2.10.    ‘Excess flow valve’ (excess flow limiting device) means a device which automatically shuts off, or limits, the gas flow when the flow exceeds a set design value.

2.11.    ‘Manual valve’ means a manual valve rigidly fixed to the cylinder.

2.12.    ‘Pressure relief valve (discharge valve)’ means a device which prevents a pre-determined upstream pressure being exceeded.

2.13.    ‘Service valve’ means an isolation valve which is closed only when servicing the vehicle.

2.14.    ‘Filter’ means a protective screen which removes foreign debris from the gas stream.

2.15.    ‘Fitting’ means a connector used in a piping, tubing, or hose system.

Fuel lines

2.16.1.    ‘Flexible fuel lines’ mean a flexible tubing or hose through which natural gas flow.

2.16.2.    ‘Rigid fuel lines’ mean a tubing which has not been designed to flex in normal operation and through which natural gas flows.

‘Gas supply device’ means a device for introducing gaseous fuel into the engine intake manifold (carburettor or injector).

2.17.1.    ‘Gas/air mixer’ means a device for mixing the gaseous fuel and intake air for the engine.

2.17.2.    ‘Gas injector’ means a device for introducing gaseous fuel into the engine or associated intake system.

2.18.    ‘Gas flow adjuster’ means a gas flow restricting device, installed downstream of a pressure regulator, controlling gas flow to the engine.

2.19.    ‘Gas-tight housing’ means a device which vents gas leakage to outside the vehicle including the gas ventilation hose.

2.20.    ‘Pressure indicator’ means a pressurised device which indicates the gas pressure.

2.21.    ‘Pressure regulator’ means a device used to control the delivery pressure of gaseous fuel to the engine.

2.22.    ‘Pressure relief device (temperature triggered)’ means a one time use device triggered by excessive temperature and/or pressure which vents gas to protect the cylinder from rupture.

2.23.    ‘Filling unit or receptacle’ means a device fitted in the vehicle external or internal (engine compartment) used to fill the container in the filling station.

2.24.    ‘Electronic control unit (CNG — fuelling)’ means a device which controls the gas demand of the engine, and other engine parameters, and cuts off automatically the automatic valve, required by safety reason.

2.25.    ‘Type of components’ as mentioned in paragraphs 2.6. to 2.23. above means components which do not differ in such essential respect as materials, working pressure and operating temperatures.

2.26.    ‘Type of electronic control unit’ as mentioned in paragraph 2.24. means components which do not differ in such essential respect as the basic software principles excluding minor changes.

PART I

APPROVAL OF SPECIFIC COMPONENTS OF MOTOR VEHICLES USING COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) IN THEIR PROPULSION SYSTEM

3.   APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

3.1.   The application for approval of specific component or multifunctional component shall be submitted by the holder of the trade name or mark or by his duly accredited representative.

It shall be accompanied by the under-mentioned documents in triplicate and by the following particulars:

3.2.1.   description of the vehicle comprising all the relevant particulars referred to in annex 1A to this Regulation,

3.2.2.   a detailed description of the type of the specific component,

3.2.3.   a drawing of the specific component, sufficiently detailed and on an appropriate scale,

3.2.4.   verification of compliance with the specifications prescribed in paragraph 6 of this Regulation.

At the request of the technical service responsible for conducting approval tests, samples of the specific component shall be provided. Supplementary samples shall be supplied upon request (3 maximum)

3.3.1.   During pre-production of containers [n] (*1), containers of each 50 pieces (lot of qualification) shall be subject to non-destructive tests of annex 3.

4.   MARKINGS

4.1.   The sample of specific component submitted for approval shall bear the trade name or mark of the manufacturer and the type, including one concerning designation regarding operating temperatures (‘M’ or ‘C’ for moderate or cold temperatures as appropriate); and for flexible hoses also the manufacturing month and year; this marking shall be clearly legible and indelible.

4.2.   All components shall have a space large enough to accommodate the approval mark; this space shall be shown on the drawings referred to in paragraph 3.2.3. above.

4.3.   Every container shall also bear a marking plate with the following data clearly legible and indelible:

(a)

a serial number;

(b)

the capacity in litres;

(c)

the marking ‘CNG’;

(d)

operating pressure/test pressure [MPa];

(e)

mass (kg);

(f)

year and month of approval (e.g. 96/01);

(g)

approval mark according to paragraph 5.4.

5.   APPROVAL

5.1.   If the component samples submitted for approval meet the requirements of paragraphs 6.1. to 6.11. of this Regulation, approval of the type of component shall be granted.

5.2.   An approval number shall be assigned to each type of component or multifunctional component approved. Its first two digits (at present 00 for the Regulation in its original form) shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval. The same Contracting Party shall not assign the same alphanumeric code to another type of component.

5.3.   Notice of approval or of refusal or of extension of approval of a CNG component type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model in annex 2B to this Regulation.

There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in the space referred to in paragraph 4.2. above, to all components conforming to a type approved under this Regulation, in addition to the mark prescribed in paragraphs 4.1. and 4.3., an international approval mark consisting of:

5.4.1.   A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (2).

5.4.2.   The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 5.4.1. This approval number consists of the component type-approval number which appears on the certificate completed for this type (see paragraph 5.2. and annex 2B) preceded by two figures indicating the sequence of the latest series of amendments to this Regulation.

5.5.   The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

5.6.   Annex 2A to this Regulation gives examples of the arrangement of the aforesaid approval mark.

6.   SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING CNG COMPONENTS

6.1.   General provisions

6.1.1.   The specific components of vehicles using CNG in their propulsion system shall function in a correct and safe way as specified in this Regulation.

The materials of the components which are in contact with CNG shall be compatible with it (see annex 5D).

Those parts of component whose correct and safe functioning is liable to be influenced by CNG, high pressure or vibrations has to be submitted to relevant test procedures described in the annexes of this Regulation. In particular the provisions of paragraphs 6.2. to 6.11. are to be fulfilled.

The specific components of vehicles using CNG in their propulsion system shall comply with relevant electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements according to Regulation No 10, 02 series of amendments, or equivalent.

6.2.   Provisions regarding containers

6.2.1.   The CNG containers shall be type approved pursuant to the provisions laid down in annex 3 to this Regulation.

6.3.   Provisions regarding components fitted to the container

The container shall be equipped at least with the following components, which may be either separate or combined:

6.3.1.1.   manual valve,

6.3.1.2.   automatic cylinder valve,

6.3.1.3.   pressure relief device,

6.3.1.4.   excess flow limiting device.

6.3.2.   The container may be equipped with a gas-tight housing, if necessary.

6.3.3.   The components mentioned in paragraphs 6.3.1. to 6.3.2. above shall be type approved pursuant to the provisions laid down in annex 4 to this Regulation.

6.4.-6.11.   Provisions regarding other components

The components shown shall be type approved pursuant to the provisions laid down in the annexes which can be determined from the table below:

Paragraph

Component

Annex

6.4.

Automatic valve

Non-return valve or non-return valve

Pressure relief valve

Pressure relief device

Excess flow valve

4A

6.5.

Flexible fuel line-hose

4B

6.6.

CNG filter

4C

6.7.

Pressure regulator

4D

6.8.

Pressure and temperature sensors

4E

6.9.

Filling unit or receptacle

4F

6.10.

Gas flow adjuster and gas/air mixer or injector

4G

6.11.

Electronic control unit

4H

7.   MODIFICATIONS OF A TYPE OF CNG COMPONENT AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL

Every modification of a type of CNG component shall be notified to the administrative department which granted the type-approval. The department may then either:

7.1.1.   Consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciable adverse effect, and that the component still complies with the requirements; or

7.1.2.   Determine whether partial or complete retesting has to be established by the competent authority.

7.2.   Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the alterations, shall be communicated by the procedure specified in paragraph 5.3. above to the Parties to the Agreement which apply this Regulation.

7.3.   The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number to each communication form drawn up for such an extension.

8.   (Not allocated)

9.   CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2) with the following requirements:

9.1.   Every container shall be tested at a minimum pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure in conformity with the prescriptions of annex 3 of this Regulation.

9.2.   Burst testing under hydraulic pressure according to paragraph 3.2. of annex 3 shall be carried out for each lot consisting of max 200 containers manufactured with the same lot of raw material.

9.3.   Every flexible fuel line assembly which is applied in the high and medium pressure (Class 0, 1) according to the Classification as described in paragraph 2 of this Regulation, shall be tested at the pressure twice the working pressure.

10.   PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

10.1.   The approval granted in respect of a type of component pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements laid down in paragraph 9 above are not complied with.

10.2.   If a Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 2B to this Regulation.

11.   (Not allocated)

12.   PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of component approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication, that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 2B to this Regulation.

13.   NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS

The Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.

PART II

APPROVAL OF VEHICLES WITH REGARD TO THE INSTALLATION OF SPECIFIC COMPONENTS OF AN APPROVED TYPE FOR THE USE OF COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) IN THEIR PROPULSION SYSTEM

14.   DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of Part II of this Regulation:

14.1.1.    ‘Approval of a vehicle’ means the approval of a vehicle type of categories M and N with regard to its CNG system as an original equipment for the use in its propulsion system;

‘Vehicle type’ means vehicles fitted with specific components for the use of CNG in their propulsion system which do not differ with respect to the following conditions:

14.1.2.1.   the manufacturer;

14.1.2.2.   the type designation established by the manufacturer,

the essential aspects of design and construction:

14.1.2.3.1.   chassis/floor pan (obvious and fundamental differences);

14.1.2.3.2.   the installation of the CNG equipment(obvious and fundamental differences).

14.1.3.    ‘CNG system’ means an assembly of components (container(s) or cylinder(s), valves, flexible fuel lines, etc.) and connecting parts (rigid fuel lines, pipes fitting, etc.) fitted on motor vehicles using CNG in their propulsion system.

15.   APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

15.1.   The application for approval of a vehicle type with regard to the installation of specific components for the use of compressed natural gas in its propulsion system shall be submitted by the vehicle manufacturer or by his duly accredited representative.

15.2.   It shall be accompanied by the under-mentioned documents in triplicate: description of the vehicle comprising all the relevant particulars referred to in annex 1B to this Regulation.

15.3.   A vehicle representative of the vehicle type to be approved, shall be submitted to the technical service conducting the approval tests.

16.   APPROVAL

16.1.   If the vehicle submitted for approval pursuant to this Regulation is provided with all the necessary specific components for the use of compressed natural gases in its propulsion system and meets the requirements of paragraph 17 below, approval of that vehicle type shall be granted.

16.2.   An approval number shall be assigned to each type of vehicle approved. Its first two digits shall indicate the series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments made to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval.

16.3.   Notice of approval or of refusal or of extension of approval of a CNG vehicle type pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation, by means of a form conforming to the model in annex 2D to this Regulation.

There shall be affixed, conspicuously and in a readily accessible space specified on the approval form referred to in paragraph 16.2. above, to every vehicle type approved under this Regulation an international approval mark consisting of:

16.4.1.   A circle surrounding the letter ‘E’ followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted approval (2);

16.4.2.   The number of this Regulation, followed by the letter ‘R’, a dash and the approval number to the right of the circle prescribed in paragraph 16.4.1.

16.5.   If the vehicle conforms to a vehicle approved, under one or more other Regulations annexed to the Agreement, in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation, the symbol prescribed in paragraph 16.4.1. need not be repeated; in such case, the Regulation and approval numbers and the additional symbols of all the Regulations under which approval has been granted in the country which has granted approval under this Regulation shall be placed in vertical columns to the right of the symbol prescribed in paragraph 16.4.1.

16.6.   The approval mark shall be clearly legible and be indelible.

16.7.   The approval mark shall be placed close to or on the vehicle data plate.

16.8.   Annex 2C to this Regulation gives examples of the arrangement of the aforesaid approval mark.

17.   REQUIREMENTS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF SPECIFIC COMPONENTS FOR THE USE OF COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS IN THE PROPULSION SYSTEM OF A VEHICLE

17.1.   General

17.1.1.   The CNG system of the vehicle shall function in a good and safe manner at the working pressure and operating temperatures for which it has been designed and approved.

17.1.2.   All components of the system shall be type approved as individual parts pursuant to Part I of this Regulation.

17.1.3.   The materials used in the system shall be suitable for use with CNG.

17.1.4.   All components of the system shall be fastened in a proper way.

17.1.5.   The CNG system shall show no leaks, i.e. stay bubble-free for 3 minutes.

17.1.6.   The CNG system shall be installed such that is has the best possible protection against damage, such as damage due to moving vehicle components, collision, grit or due to the loading or unloading of the vehicle or the shifting of those loads.

No appliances shall be connected to the CNG system other than those strictly required for the proper operation of the engine of the motor vehicle.

17.1.7.1.   Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 17.1.7., vehicles may be fitted with a heating system to heat the passenger compartment and/or the load area which is connected to the CNG system.

17.1.7.2.   The heating system referred to in paragraph 17.1.7.1. shall be permitted if, in the view of the technical services responsible for conducting type-approval, the heating system is adequately protected and the required operation of the normal CNG system is not affected.

Identification of CNG-fuelled vehicles of categories M2 and M3 (3).

17.1.8.1.   Vehicles of categories M2 and M3 equipped with a CNG system shall carry a plate as specified in annex 6.

17.1.8.2.   The plate shall be installed on the front and rear of the vehicle of category M2 or M3 and on the outside of the doors on the right-hand side.

17.2.   Further requirements

17.2.1.   No component of the CNG system, including any protective materials which form part of such components, shall project beyond the outline of the vehicle, with the exception of the filling unit if this does not project more than 10 mm beyond its point of attachment.

17.2.2.   No component of the CNG system shall be located within 100 mm of the exhaust or similar heat source, unless such components are adequately shielded against heat.

17.3.   The CNG system

A CNG system shall contain at least the following components:

17.3.1.1.   Container(s) or cylinder(s);

17.3.1.2.   Pressure indicator or fuel level indicator;

17.3.1.3.   Pressure relief device (temperature triggered);

17.3.1.4.   Automatic cylinder valve;

17.3.1.5.   Manual valve;

17.3.1.6.   Pressure regulator;

17.3.1.7.   Gas flow adjuster;

17.3.1.8.   Excess flow limiting device;

17.3.1.9.   Gas supply device;

17.3.1.10.   Filling unit or receptacle;

17.3.1.11.   Flexible fuel line;

17.3.1.12.   Rigid fuel line;

17.3.1.13.   Electronic control unit;

17.3.1.14.   Fittings;

17.3.1.15.   Gas-tight housing for those components installed inside the luggage and passenger compartment. If the gas-tight housing will be destroyed in case of fire, the pressure relief device may be covered by the gas-tight housing.

The CNG system may also include the following components:

17.3.2.1.   Non-return valve or non-return valve;

17.3.2.2.   Pressure relief valve;

17.3.2.3.   CNG filter;

17.3.2.4.   Pressure and/or temperature sensor;

17.3.2.5.   Fuel selection system and electrical system.

17.3.3.   An additional automatic valve may be combined with the pressure regulator.

17.4.   Installation of the container

17.4.1.   The container shall be permanently installed in the vehicle and shall not be installed in the engine compartment.

17.4.2.   The container shall be installed such that there is no metal to metal contact, with the exception of the fixing points of the container(s).

When the vehicle is ready for use the fuel container shall not be less than 200 mm above the road surface.

17.4.3.1.   The provisions of paragraph 17.4.3. shall not apply if the container is adequately protected, at the front and the sides and no part of the container is located lower than this protective structure.

17.4.4.   The fuel container(s) or cylinder(s) must be mounted and fixed so that the following accelerations can be absorbed (without damage occurring) when the containers are full:

Vehicles of categories M1 and N1:

(a)

20 g in the direction of travel

(b)

8 g horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel

Vehicles of categories M2 and N2:

(a)

10 g in the direction of travel

(b)

5 g horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel

Vehicles of categories M3 and N3:

(a)

6,6 g in the direction of travel

(b)

5 g horizontally perpendicular to the direction of travel

A calculation method can be used instead of practical testing if its equivalence can be demonstrated by the applicant for approval to the satisfaction of the technical service.

17.5.   Accessories fitted to the container(s) or cylinder(s)

Automatic valve

17.5.1.1.   An automatic cylinder valve shall be installed directly on each container.

17.5.1.2.   The automatic cylinder valve shall be operated such that the fuel supply is cut off when the engine is switched off, irrespective of the position of the ignition switch, and shall remain closed while the engine in not running. A delay of 2 seconds is permitted for diagnostic.

Pressure relief device

17.5.2.1.   The pressure relief device (temperature triggered) shall be fitted to the fuel container(s) in such a manner that can discharge into the gas-tight housing if that gas-tight housing fulfils the requirements of paragraph 17.5.5.

Excess flow valve on the container

17.5.3.1.   The excess flow limiting device shall be fitted in the fuel container(s) on the automatic cylinder valve.

Manual valve

17.5.4.1.   A manual valve is rigidly fixed to the cylinder which can be integrated into the automatic cylinder valve.

Gas-tight housing on the container(s)

17.5.5.1.   A gas-tight housing over the container(s) fittings, which fulfils the requirements of paragraphs 17.5.5.2. to 17.5.5.5. shall be fitted to the fuel container, unless the container(s) is installed outside the vehicle.

17.5.5.2.   The gas-tight housing shall be in open connection with the atmosphere, where necessary through a connecting hose and a lead-through which shall be resistant against CNG.

17.5.5.3.   The ventilation opening of the gas tight housing shall not discharge into a wheel arch, nor shall it be aimed at a heat source such as the exhaust.

17.5.5.4.   Any connecting hose and lead-through in the bottom of the bodywork of the motor vehicle for ventilation of the gas-tight housing shall have a minimum clear opening of 450 mm2.

17.5.5.5.   The housing over the container(s) fittings and connecting hoses shall be gas-tight at a pressure of 10 kPa without any permanent deformations. In this circumstances a leak not exceeding 100 cm3 per hour may be accepted.

17.5.5.6.   The connecting hose shall be secured by clamps, or other means, to the gas-tight housing and the lead-through to ensure that a gas-tight joint is formed.

17.5.5.7.   The gas-tight housing shall contain all the components installed into the luggage or passenger compartment.

17.6.   Rigid and flexible fuel lines

17.6.1.   Rigid fuel lines shall be made of seamless material: either stainless steel or steel with corrosion-resistant coating.

17.6.2.   The rigid fuel line may be replaced by a flexible fuel line if used in Class 0, 1 or 2.

17.6.3.   Flexible fuel line shall fulfil the requirement of annex 4B to this Regulation.

17.6.4.   Rigid fuel lines, shall be secured such that they shall not be subjected to vibration of stresses.

17.6.5.   Flexible fuel lines shall be secured such that they shall not be subjected to vibration or stresses.

17.6.6.   At the fixing point, the fuel line, flexible or rigid, shall be fitted in such a way that there is no metal to metal contact.

17.6.7.   Rigid and flexible fuel gas line shall not be located at jacking points.

17.6.8.   At passages the fuel lines shall be fitted with protective material.

17.7.   Fitting or gas connections between the components

17.7.1.   Soldered joints and bite-type compression joints are not permitted.

17.7.2.   Stainless steel tubes shall only be joined by stainless steel fittings.

17.7.3.   Distributing-blocks shall be made of corrosion-resistant material.

17.7.4.   Rigid fuel lines shall be connected by appropriate joints, for example, two-part compression joints in steel tubes and joints with olives tapered on both sides.

17.7.5.   The number of joints shall be limited to a minimum.

17.7.6.   Any joints shall be made in locations where access is possible for inspection.

In a passenger compartment or enclosed luggage compartment the fuel lines shall be no longer than reasonably required, and in any case shall be protected by a gas-tight housing.

17.7.7.1.   The provisions of paragraph 17.7.7. shall not apply to vehicles of categories M2 or M3 where the fuel lines and connections are fitted with a sleeve which is resistant against CNG and which has an open connection to the atmosphere.

17.8.   Automatic valve

17.8.1.   An additional automatic valve may be installed in the fuel line as close as possible to the pressure regulator.

17.9.   Filling unit or receptacle

17.9.1.   The filling unit shall be secured against rotation and shall be protected against dirt and water.

17.9.2.   When the CNG container is installed in the passenger compartment or a enclosed (luggage) compartment the filling unit shall be located at the outside of the vehicle or in engine compartment.

17.10.   Fuel selection system and electrical installation

17.10.1.   The electrical components of the CNG system shall be protected against overloads.

17.10.2.   Vehicles with more than one fuel system shall have a fuel selection system to ensure that no more than one fuel at the same time is supplied to the engine for more than 5 seconds. ‘Dual-fuel’ vehicles, using diesel as the primary fuel for igniting the air/gas mixture, are allowed in cases where these engines and vehicles meet mandatory emission standards.

17.10.3.   The electrical connections and components in the gas-tight housing shall be constructed such that no sparks are generated.

18.   CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

18.1.   The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2).

19.   PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

19.1.   The approval granted in respect of a type of vehicle pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the requirements referred to in paragraph 18 above are not complied with.

19.2.   If a Party to the Agreement applying this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation, by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 2D to this Regulation.

20.   MODIFICATION AND EXTENSION OF APPROVAL OF A VEHICLE TYPE

Every modification of the installation of the specific components for the use of compressed natural gas in the propulsion system of the vehicle shall be notified to the administrative department which approved the vehicle type. The department may then either:

20.1.1.   Consider that the modifications made are unlikely to have an appreciably adverse effect and that in any case the vehicle still complies with the requirements; or

20.1.2.   Require a further test report from the technical service responsible for conducting the tests.

20.2.   Confirmation or refusal of approval, specifying the alteration, shall be communicated to the Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in annex 2D to this Regulation.

20.3.   The competent authority issuing the extension of approval shall assign a series number for such an extension and inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 2D to this Regulation.

21.   PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of vehicle approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication, that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 2D to this Regulation.

22.   NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS

The Parties to the Agreement applying this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations Secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries, are to be sent.


(1)  As defined in Annex 7 to the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3), (document TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.1/Amend.2 as last amended by Amend.4).

(*1)  To be specified.

(2)  1 for Germany, 2 for France, 3 for Italy, 4 for the Netherlands, 5 for Sweden, 6 for Belgium, 7 for Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Serbia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for Austria, 13 for Luxembourg, 14 for Switzerland, 15 (vacant), 16 for Norway, 17 for Finland, 18 for Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal, 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 24 for Ireland, 25 for Croatia, 26 for Slovenia, 27 for Slovakia, 28 for Belarus, 29 for Estonia, 30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32 for Latvia, 33 (vacant), 34 for Bulgaria, 36 for Lithuania, 37 for Turkey, 38 (vacant), 39 for Azerbaijan, 40 for The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, 41 (vacant), 42 for the European Community (Approvals are granted by its Member States using their respective ECE symbol), 43 for Japan, 44 (vacant), 45 for Australia, 46 for Ukraine and 47 for South Africa, 48 for New Zealand, 49 for Cyprus, 50 for Malta, 51 for the Republic of Korea, 52 for Malaysia, 53 for Thailand, 54 and 55 (vacant) and 56 for Montenegro. Subsequent numbers shall be assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they ratify or accede to the Agreement Concerning the Adoption of Uniform Technical Prescriptions for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and Parts which can be Fitted and/or be Used on Wheeled Vehicles and the Conditions for Reciprocal Recognition of Approvals Granted on the Basis of these Prescriptions, and the numbers thus assigned shall be communicated by the Secretary-General of the United Nations to the Contracting Parties to the Agreement.

(3)  As defined in the Consolidated Resolution on the Construction of Vehicles (R.E.3), annex 7 (TRANS/WP.29/78/Rev.1/Amend.2).


ANNEX 1A

ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CNG COMPONENT

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ANNEX 1B

ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE VEHICLE, ENGINE AND CNG-RELATED SYSTEM

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ANNEX 2A

ARRANGEMENT OF THE CNG COMPONENT TYPE-APPROVAL MARK

(See paragraph 5.2. of this Regulation)

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a ≥ 8 mm

The above approval mark affixed to the CNG component shows that this component has been approved in Italy (E3), pursuant to Regulation No. 110 under approval number 002439. The first two digits of the approval number indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No. 110 in its original form.


ANNEX 2B

COMMUNICATION

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Addendum

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ANNEX 2C

ARRANGEMENT OF APPROVAL MARKS

MODEL A

(See paragraph 16.2. of this Regulation)

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a ≥ 8 mm

The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle has, with regard to the installation of CNG system for the use of CNG for propulsion, been approved in Italy (E3), pursuant to Regulation No. 110 under approval number 002439. The first two digits of the approval number indicate that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No. 110 in its original form.

MODEL B

(See paragraph 16.2. of this Regulation)

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a ≥ 8 mm

The above approval mark affixed to a vehicle shows that the vehicle has, with regard to the installation of CNG system for the use of CNG for propulsion, been approved in Italy(E3), pursuant to Regulation No. 110 under approval number 002439. The first two digits of the approval number indicate that at the date the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No. 110 in its original form and that Regulation No. 83 included the 04 series of amendments.


ANNEX 2D

COMMUNICATION

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ANNEX 3

GAS CYLINDERS HIGH PRESSURE CYLINDER FOR THE ON-BOARD STORAGE OF NATURAL GAS AS A FUEL FOR AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLES

1.   SCOPE

This annex sets out minimum requirements for light-weight refillable gas cylinders. The cylinders are intended only for the on-board storage of high pressure compressed natural gas as a fuel for automotive vehicles to which the cylinders are to be fixed. Cylinders may be of any steel, aluminium or non-metallic material, design or method of manufacture suitable for the specified service conditions. This annex does not cover metal liners or cylinders of stainless steels or of welded construction. Cylinders covered by this annex are Classified in Class 0, as described in paragraph 2. of this Regulation, and are:

CNG-1

Metal

CNG-2

Metal liner reinforced with resin impregnated continuous filament (hoop wrapped)

CNG-3

Metal liner reinforced with resin impregnated continuous filament (fully wrapped)

CNG-4

Resin impregnated continuous filament with a non-metallic liner (all composite)

Service conditions to which the cylinders will be subjected are detailed in paragraph 4. This annex is based upon a working pressure for natural gas as a fuel of 20 MPa settled at 15 °C with a maximum filling pressure of 26 MPa. Other working pressures can be accommodated by adjusting the pressure by the appropriate factor (ratio). For example, a 25 MPa working pressure system will require pressures to be multiplied by 1,25.

The service life of the cylinder shall be defined by the manufacturer and may vary with applications. Definition of service life is based upon filling the cylinders 1 000 times a year for a minimum of 15 000 fills. The maximum service life shall be 20 years.

For metal and metal-lined cylinders, the cylinder life is based upon the rate of fatigue crack growth. The ultrasonic inspection, or equivalent, of each cylinder or liner is required to ensure the absence of flaws which exceed the maximum allowable size. This approach permits the optimised design and manufacture of light weight cylinders for natural gas vehicle service.

For all-composite cylinders with non-metallic non-load bearing liners the ‘safe life’ is demonstrated by appropriate design methods, design qualification testing and manufacturing controls.

2.   REFERENCES

The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of this annex (until equivalent ECE provisions will be available).

ASTM Standards (1)

ASTM B117-90

Test method of Salt Spray (Fog) Testing;

ASTM B154-92

Mercurous Nitrate Test for Copper and Copper Alloys;

ASTM D522-92

Mandrel Bend Test of attached Organic Coatings;

ASTM D1308-87

Effect of Household Chemicals on Clear and Pigmented Organic Finishes;

ASTM D2344-84

Test Method for Apparent interlaminar Shear Strength of Parallel Fibre Composites by Short Beam Method;

ASTM D2794-92

Test Method for Resistance of Organic Coatings to the Effects of Rapid Deformation (Impact);

ASTM D3170-87

Chipping Resistance of Coatings;

ASTM D3418-83

Test Method for Transition Temperatures Polymers by Thermal Analysis;

ASTM E647-93

Standard Test, Method for Measurement of Fatigue Crack Growth Rates;

ASTM E813-89

Test Method for JIC, a Measure of Fracture Toughness;

ASTM G53-93

Standard Practice for Operating Light and Water — Exposure Apparatus (Fluorescent UV-Condensation Type) for Exposure of non-metallic materials.

BSI Standards (2)

BS 5045

Part 1 (1982) Transportable Gas Containers — Specification for Seamless Steel Gas Containers Above 0,5 litre Water Capacity;

BS 7448-91

Fracture Mechanics Toughness Tests Part I — Method for Determination of KIC, Critical COD and Critical J Values of metallic materials;

BS PD 6493-1991

Guidance an Methods for Assessing the A Acceptability of Flaws in Fusion Welded Structures; Metallic Materials.

ISO Standards (3)

ISO 148-1983

Steel — Charpy Impact Test (v-notch);

ISO 306-1987

Plastics — Thermoplastic Materials — Determination of Vicat Softening Temperature;

ISO 527 Pt 1-93

Plastics — Determination of Tensile Properties — Part I: General principles;

ISO 642-79

Steel-Hardenability Test by End Quenching (Jominy Test);

ISO 2808-91

Paints and Varnishes — Determination of film Thickness;

ISO 3628-78

Glass Reinforced Materials — Determination of Tensile Properties;

ISO 4624-78

Plastics and Varnishes — Pull-off Test for adhesion;

ISO 6982-84

Metallic Materials — Tensile Testing;

ISO 6506-1981

Metallic Materials — Hardness test — Brinell Test;

ISO 6508-1986

Metallic Materials — Hardness Tests — Rockwell Test (Scales, ABCDEFGHK);

ISO 7225

Precautionary Labels for Gas Cylinders;

ISO/DIS 7866-1992

Refillable Transportable Seamless Aluminium Alloy Cylinders for Worldwide Usage Design, Manufacture and Acceptance;

ISO 9001:1994

Quality Assurance in Design/Development. Production, Installation and Servicing;

ISO 9002:1994

Quality Assurance in Production and Installation;

ISO/DIS 12737

Metallic Materials — Determination of the Plane-Strain Fracture Toughness;

ISO/IEC Guide 25-1990

General requirements for the Technical Competence of Testing Laboratories;

ISO/IEC Guide 48-1986

Guidelines for Third Party Assessment and Registration of Supplies Quality System;

ISO/DIS 9809

Transportable Seamless Steel Gas Cylinders Design, Construction and Testing — Part I: Quenched and Tempered Steel Cylinders with Tensile Strength < 1 100 MPa;

NACE Standard (4)

NACE TM0177-90

Laboratory Testing of Metals for Resistance to Sulphide Stress Cracking in H2S Environments.

3.   DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this annex the following definitions shall apply:

3.1.   (not allocated)

3.2.    auto-frettage: A pressure application procedure used in manufacturing composite cylinders with metal liners, which strains the liner past its limit of elasticity, sufficiently to cause permanent plastic deformation which results in the liner having compressive stresses and the fibres having tensile stresses at zero internal pressure.

3.3.    auto-frettage pressure: The pressure within the over-wrapped cylinder at which the required distribution of stresses between the liner and the over-wrap is established.

3.4.    batch — composite cylinders: A ‘batch’ shall be a group of cylinders successively produced from qualified liners having the same size, design, specified materials of construction and process of manufacture.

3.5.    batch — metal cylinders and liners: A ‘batch’ shall be a group of metal cylinders or liners successively produced having the same nominal diameter, wall thickness, design, specified material of construction, process of manufacture, equipment for manufacture and heat treatment, and conditions of time, temperature and atmosphere during heat treatment.

3.6.    batch non-metallic liners: A ‘batch’ shall be a group of non-metallic liners successively produced having the same nominal diameter, wall thickness, design specified material of construction and process of manufacture.

3.7.    batch limits: In no case shall a ‘batch’ be permitted to exceed 200 finished cylinders or liners (not including destructive test cylinders or liners), or one shift of successive production, whichever is greater.

3.8.    composite cylinder: A cylinder made of resin impregnated continuous filament wound over a metallic or non-metallic liner. Composite cylinders using non-metallic liners are referred to as all-composite cylinders.

3.9.    controlled tension winding: A process used in manufacturing hoop wrapped composite cylinders with metal liners by which compressive stresses in the liner and tensile stresses in the over-wrap at zero internal pressure are obtained by winding the reinforcing filaments under significant high tension.

3.10.    filling pressure: The gas pressure in the cylinder immediately upon completion of filling.

3.11.    finished cylinders: Completed cylinders which are ready for use, typical of normal production, complete with identification marks and external coating including integral insulation specified by the manufacturer, but free from non-integral insulation or protection.

3.12.    full-wrap: An over-wrap having a filament wound reinforcement both in the circumferential and axial direction of the cylinder.

3.13.    gas temperature: The temperature of gas in a cylinder.

3.14.    hoop-wrap: An over-wrap having a filament wound reinforcement in a substantially circumferential pattern over the cylindrical portion of the liner so that the filament does not carry any significant load in a direction parallel to the cylinder longitudinal axis.

3.15.    liner: A container that is used as a gas-tight, inner shell, on which reinforcing fibres are filament wound to reach the necessary strength. Two types of liners are described in this standard: Metallic liners that are designed to share the load with the reinforcement, and non-metallic liners that do not carry any part of the load.

3.16.    manufacturer: The person or organization responsible for the design, fabrication and testing of the cylinders.

3.17.    maximum developed pressure: The settled pressure developed when gas in a cylinder filled to the working pressure is raised to the maximum service temperature.

3.18.    over-wrap: The reinforcement system of filament and resin applied over the liner.

3.19.    prestressing: The process of applying auto-frettage or controlled tension winding.

3.20.    service life: The life in years during which the cylinders may safely be used in accordance with the standard service conditions.

3.21.    settled pressure: The gas pressure when a given settled temperature is reached.

3.22.    settled temperature: The uniform gas temperature after any change in temperature caused by filling has dissipated.

3.23.    test pressure: The pressure at which the cylinder is hydrostatically tested.

3.24.    working pressure: The settled pressure of 20 MPa at a uniform temperature of 15 °C.

4.   SERVICE CONDITIONS

4.1.   General

4.1.1.   Standard service conditions

The standard service conditions specified in this section are provided as a basis for the design, manufacture, inspection, testing, and approval of cylinders that are to be mounted permanently on vehicles and used to store natural gas at ambient temperatures for use as a fuel on vehicles.

4.1.2.   Use of cylinders

The service conditions specified are also intended to provide information on how cylinders made to this Regulation may safely be used to:

(a)

manufacturers of cylinders;

(b)

owners of cylinders;

(c)

designers or contractors responsible for the installation of cylinders;

(d)

designers or owners of equipment used to refuel vehicle cylinders;

(e)

suppliers of natural gas; and

(f)

regulatory authorities who have jurisdiction over cylinder use.

4.1.3.   Service life

The service life for which cylinders are safe shall be specified by the cylinder designer on the basis of use under service conditions specified herein. The maximum service life shall be 20 years.

Periodic requalification

Recommendations for periodic requalification by visual inspection or testing during the service life shall be provided by the cylinder manufacturer on the basis of use under service conditions specified herein. Each cylinder shall be visually inspected at least every 48 months after the date of its entry into service on the vehicle (vehicle registration), and at the time of any re-installation, for external damage and deterioration, including under the support straps. The visual inspection shall be performed by a competent agency approved or recognized by the Regulatory Authority, in accordance with the manufacturers specifications: Cylinders without label containing mandatory information, or with labels containing mandatory information that are illegible in any way shall be removed from service. If the cylinder can be positively identified by manufacturer and serial number, a replacement label may be applied, allowing the cylinder to remain in service.

4.1.4.1.   Cylinders involved in collisions

Cylinders which have been involved in a vehicle collision shall be reinspected by an agency authorized by the manufacturer, unless otherwise directed by the Authority having jurisdiction. Cylinder which have not experienced any impact damage from the collision may be returned to service, otherwise the cylinder shall be returned to the manufacturer for evaluation.

4.1.4.2.   Cylinders involved in fires

Cylinders which have been subject to the action of fire shall be reinspected by an agency authorized by the manufacturer, or condemned and removed from service.

4.2.   Maximum pressures

The cylinder pressure shall be limited to the following:

(a)

a pressure that would settle to 20 MPa at a settled temperature of 15 °C;

(b)

26 MPa, immediately after filling, regardless of temperature;

4.3.   Maximum number of filling cycles

Cylinders are designed to be filled up to a settled pressure of 20 MPa bar at a settled gas temperature of 15 °C for up to 1 000 times per year of service.

4.4.   Temperature range

4.4.1.   Settled gas temperature

Settled temperature of gas in cylinders may vary from a minimum of –40 °C to a maximum of 65 °C;

4.4.2.   Cylinder temperatures

The temperature of the cylinder materials may vary from a minimum of –40 °C to a maximum of +82 °C;

Temperatures over +65 °C may be sufficiently local, or of short enough duration, that the temperature of gas in the cylinder never exceeds +65 °C, except under the conditions of paragraph 4.4.3;

4.4.3.   Transient temperatures

Developed gas temperatures during filling and discharge may vary beyond the limits of paragraph 4.4.1;

4.5.   Gas composition

Methanol and/or glycol shall not be deliberately added to the natural gas. Cylinder should be designed to tolerate being filled with natural gas meeting either of the following three conditions:

(a)

SAE J1616

(b)

Dry gas

Water vapour would normally be limited to less than 32 mg/m3. a pressure dewpoint of –9 °C at 20 MPa. There would be no constituent limits for dry gas, except for:

Hydrogen sulfide and other soluble sulfides: … 23 mg/m3

Oxygen: … 1 per cent by volume

Hydrogen shall be limited to 2 per cent by volume when cylinders are manufactured from a steel with an ultimate tensile strength exceeding 950 MPa;

(c)

Wet gas

Gas that contains a water content higher than b) normally meets the following constituent limits;

Hydrogen sulfide and other soluble sulfides: … 23 mg/m3

Oxygen: … 1 per cent by volume

Carbon dioxide: … 4 per cent by volume

Hydrogen: … 0,1 per cent by volume

Under wet gas conditions, a minimum of 1 mg of compressor oil per kg of gas is necessary to protect metallic cylinders and liners.

4.6.   External surfaces

Cylinders are not designed for continuous exposure to mechanical or chemical attack, e.g. leakage from cargo that may be carried on vehicles or severe abrasion damage from road conditions, and shall comply with recognized installation standards. However, cylinder external surfaces may be inadvertently exposed to:

(a)

water, either by intermittent immersion or road spray;

(b)

salt, due to the operation of the vehicle near the ocean or where ice melting salt is used;

(c)

ultra-violet radiation from sunlight;

(d)

impact of gravel;

(e)

solvents, acids and alkalis, fertilizers; and

(f)

automotive fluids, including gasoline, hydraulic fluids, glycol and oils.

4.7.   Gas permeation or leakage

Cylinders may be located in enclosed spaces for extended periods of time. Permeation of gas through the cylinder wall or leakage between the end connections and the liner shall be considered in the design.

5.   DESIGN APPROVAL

5.1.   General

The following information shall be submitted by the cylinder designer with a request for approval to the Competent Authority:

(a)

statement of service (paragraph 5.2.);

(b)

design data (paragraph 5.3.);

(c)

manufacturing data (paragraph 5.4.);

(d)

quality system (paragraph 5.5.);

(e)

fracture performance and NDE (Non Destructive Examination) defect size (paragraph 5.6.);

(f)

specification sheet (paragraph 5.7.);

(g)

additional supporting data (paragraph 5.8.);

For cylinders designed in accordance with ISO 9809 it is not required to provide the stress analysis report in paragraph 5.3.2. or the information in paragraph 5.6.

5.2.   Statement of service

The purpose of this statement of service is to guide users and installers of cylinders as well as to inform the approving Competent Authority, or their designated representative. The statement of service shall include:

(a)

a statement that the cylinder design is suitable for use in the service conditions defined in paragraph 4 for the service life of the cylinder;

(b)

the service life;

(c)

the minimum in-service test and/or inspection requirements;

(d)

the pressure relief devices and/or insulation required;

(e)

support methods, protective coatings, etc., required but not provided;

(f)

a description of the cylinder design;

(g)

any other information necessary to ensure the safe use and inspection of the cylinder.

5.3.   Design data

5.3.1.   Drawings

Drawings shall show the following as a minimum:

(a)

Title, reference number, date of issue, and revision numbers with dates of issue if applicable;

(b)

Reference to this Regulation and the cylinder type;

(c)

All dimensions complete with tolerances, including details of end closure shapes with minimum thicknesses and of openings;

(d)

Mass, complete with tolerance, of cylinders;

(e)

Material specifications, complete with minimum mechanical and chemical properties or tolerance ranges and, for metal cylinders or metal liners, the specified hardness range;

(f)

Other data such as, auto-frettage pressure range, minimum test pressure, details of the fire protection system and of the exterior protective coating.

5.3.2.   Stress analysis report

A finite element stress analysis or other stress analysis shall be provided;

A table summarizing the calculated stresses in the report shall be provided.

5.3.3.   Material test data

A detailed description of the materials and tolerances of the materials properties used in the design shall be provided. Test data shall also be presented characterizing the mechanical properties and the suitability of the materials for service under the conditions specified in paragraph 4.

5.3.4.   Design qualification test data

The cylinder material, design, manufacture and examination shall be provided to be adequate for their intended service by meeting the requirements of the tests required for the particular cylinder design, when tested in accordance with the relevant methods of test detailed in appendix A to this annex.

The test data shall also document the dimensions, wall thicknesses and weights of each of the test cylinders.

5.3.5.   Fire protection

The arrangement of pressure relief devices that will protect the cylinder from sudden rupture when exposed to the fire conditions in paragraph A.15 shall be specified. Test data shall substantiate the effectiveness of the specified fire protection system.

5.3.6.   Cylinder supports

Details of cylinder supports or support requirements shall be provided in accordance with paragraph 6.11.

5.4.   Manufacturing data

Details of all fabrication processes, non-destructive examinations, production tests and batch tests Shall be provided; The tolerances for all production processes such as heat treatment, end forming, resin mix ratio, filament winding tension and speed, curing times and temperatures, and auto-frettage procedures shall be specified; Surface finish, thread details, acceptance criteria for ultrasonic scanning (or equivalent), and maximum lot sizes for batch tests shall also be specified.

5.5.   (not allocated)

5.6.   Fracture performance and NDE defect size

5.6.1.   Fracture performance

The manufacturer shall demonstrate the Leak-Before-Break performance of the design as described in paragraph 6.7.

5.6.2.   NDE defect size

Using the approach described in paragraph 6.15.2 the manufacturer shall establish the maximum defect size for non-destructive examination which will prevent the failure of the cylinder during its service life due to fatigue, or failure of the cylinder by rupture.

5.7.   Specification sheet

A summary of the documents providing the information required in paragraph 5.1. shall be listed on a specification sheet for each cylinder design. The title, reference number, revision numbers and dates of original issue and version issues of each document shall be given. All documents shall be signed or initialled by the issuer; The specification sheet shall be given a number, and revision numbers if applicable, that can be used to designate the cylinder design and shall carry the signature of the engineer responsible for the design. Space shall be provided on the specification sheet for a stamp indicating registration of the design.

5.8.   Additional supporting data

Additional data which would support the application, such as the service history of material proposed for use, or the use of a particular cylinder design in other service conditions, shall be provided where applicable.

5.9.   Approval and certification

5.9.1.   Inspection and testing

Evaluation of conformity is required to be performed in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of this Regulation;

In order to ensure that the cylinders are in compliance with this international Regulation they shall be subject to inspection in accordance with paragraphs 6.13. and 6.14. performed by the Competent Authority.

5.9.2.   Test certificate

If the results of prototype testing according to paragraph 6.13. are satisfactory, the Competent Authority shall issue a test certificate. An example of a test certificate is given in Appendix D to this annex.

5.9.3.   Batch acceptance certificate

The Competent Authority shall prepare an acceptance certificate as provided in appendix D to this annex.

6.   REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE TO ALL CYLINDER TYPES

6.1.   General

The following requirements are generally applicable to the cylinder types specified in paragraphs 7 to 10. The design of cylinders shall cover all relevant aspects which are necessary to ensure that every cylinder produced according to the design is fit for its purpose for the specified service life; Type CNG-1 steel cylinders designed in accordance with ISO 9809 and meeting all the requirements therein are only required to meet the requirements of paragraphs 6.3.2.4. and 6.9 to 6.13.

6.2.   Design

This Regulation does not provide design formulas nor permissible stresses or strains, but requires the adequacy of the design to be established by appropriate calculations and demonstrated by cylinders being capable of consistently passing the materials, design qualification, production and batch tests specified in this Regulation; All designs shall ensure a ‘leakage before break’ failure mode under feasible degradation of pressure parts during normal service. If leakage of metal cylinders or metal liners occurs, it shall be only by the growth of a fatigue crack.

6.3.   Materials

6.3.1.   Materials used shall be suitable for the service conditions specified in paragraph 4. The design shall not have incompatible materials in contact. The design qualification tests for materials are summarised in table 6.1.

Steel

6.3.2.1.   Composition

Steels shall be aluminium and/or silicon killed and produced to predominantly fine grain practice. The chemical composition of all steels shall be declared and defined at least by:

(a)

carbon, manganese, aluminium and silicon contents in all cases;

(b)

nickel, chromium, molybdenum, boron and vanadium contents, and any other alloying elements intentionally added.

The following limits shall not be exceeded in the cast analysis:

Tensile strength

< 950 MPa

≥ 950 MPa

Sulfur

0,020 per cent

0,010 per cent

Phosphorus

0,020 per cent

0,020 per cent

Sulfur and Phosphorus

0,030 per cent

0,025 per cent

When a carbon-boron steel is used, a hardenability test in accordance with ISO 642, shall be performed on the first and last ingot or slab of each heat of steel. The hardness as measured in a distance of 7,9 mm from the quenched end, shall be within the range 33-53 HRC, or 327-560 HV, and shall be certified by the material manufacturer;

6.3.2.2.   Tensile properties

The mechanical properties of the steel in the finished cylinder or liner shall be determined in accordance with paragraph A.1 (appendix A). The elongation for steel shall be at least 14 per cent.

6.3.2.3.   Impact properties

The impact properties of the steel in the finished cylinder or liner shall be determined in accordance with paragraph A.2 (appendix A). Impact values shall not be less than that indicated in table 6.2 of this annex.

6.3.2.4.   Sulfide stress cracking resistance

If the upper limit of the specified tensile strength for the steel exceeds 950 MPa, the steel from a finished cylinder shall be subjected to a sulphide stress cracking resistance test in accordance with appendix A to this annex, item A.3., and meet the requirements listed therein.

Aluminium

6.3.3.1.   Composition

Aluminium alloys shall be quoted in line with Aluminium Association practice for a given alloy system. The impurity limits for lead and bismuth in any aluminium alloy shall not exceed 0,003 per cent.

6.3.3.2.   Corrosion tests

Aluminium alloys shall meet the requirements of the corrosion tests carried out in accordance with paragraph A.4 (appendix A).

6.3.3.3.   Sustained load cracking

Aluminium alloys shall meet the requirements of the sustained load cracking tests carried out in accordance with paragraph A.5 (appendix A).

6.3.3.4.   Tensile properties

The mechanical properties of the aluminium alloy in the finished cylinder shall be determined in accordance with paragraph A.l (appendix A). The elongation for aluminium shall be at least 12 per cent.

Resins

6.3.4.1.   General

The material for impregnation may be thermosetting or thermoplastic resins. Examples of suitable matrix materials are epoxy, modified epoxy, polyester and vinylester thermosetting plastics, and polyethylene and polyamide thermoplastic material.

6.3.4.2.   Shear strength

Resin materials shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.26 (appendix A), and meet the requirements therein.

6.3.4.3.   Glass transition temperature

The glass transition temperature of the resin material shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D3418.

6.3.5.   Fibres

Structural reinforcing filament material types shall be glass fibre, aramid fibre or carbon fibre. If carbon fibre reinforcement is used the design shall incorporate means to prevent galvanic corrosion of metallic components of the cylinder. The manufacturer shall keep on file the published specifications for composite materials, the material manufacturer's recommendations for storage, conditions and shelf life and the material manufacturer's certification that each shipment conforms to said specification requirements. The fibre manufacturer shall certify that the fibre material properties conform to the manufacturer's specifications for the product.

6.3.6.   Plastic liners

The tensile yield strength and ultimate elongation shall be determined in accordance with paragraph A.22 (appendix A). Tests shall demonstrate the ductile properties of the plastic liner material at temperatures of –50 °C or lower by meeting the values specified by the manufacturer; The polymeric material shall be compatible with the service conditions specified in paragraph 4 of this annex. In accordance with the method described in paragraph A.23 (appendix A), the softening temperature shall be at least 90 °C, and the melting temperature at least 100 °C.

6.4.   Test pressure

The minimum test pressure used in manufacture shall be 30 MPa.

6.5.   Burst pressures and fibre stress ratios

For all types of cylinder the minimum actual burst pressure shall not be less than the values given in table 6.3 of this annex. For type CNG-2, CNG-3 and CNG-4 designs the composite over-wrap shall be designed for high reliability under sustained loading and cyclic loading. This reliability shall be achieved by meeting or exceeding the composite reinforcement stress ratio values given in table 6.3 of this annex. Stress ratio is defined as the stress in the fibre at the specified minimum burst pressure divided by the stress in the fibre at working pressure. The burst ratio is defined as the actual burst pressure of the cylinder divided by the working pressure; For type CNG-4 designs, the stress ratio is equal to the burst ratio; For type CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs (metal-lined, composite over-wrapped) stress ratio calculations must include:

(a)

An analysis method with capability for non-linear materials (special purpose computer program or finite element analysis program);

(b)

Elastic-plastic stress-strain curve for liner material must be known and correctly modelled;

(c)

Mechanical properties of composite materials must be correctly modelled;

(d)

Calculations must be made at: auto-frettage, zero after auto-frettage, working and minimum burst pressures;

(e)

Prestresses from winding tension must be accounted for in the analysis;

(f)

Minimum burst pressure must be chosen such that the calculated stress at minimum burst pressure divided by the calculated stress at working pressure meets the stress ratio requirements for the fibre used;

(g)

When analyzing cylinders with hybrid reinforcement (two or more different fibre types), the load share between the different fibres must be considered based on the different elastic modulii of the fibres. The stress ratio requirements for each individual fibre type must be in accordance with the values given in table 6.3 of this annex. Verification of the stress ratios may also be performed using strain gauges. An acceptable method is outlined in the informative appendix E to this annex.

6.6.   Stress analysis

A stress analysis shall be performed to justify the minimum design wall thicknesses. It shall include the determination of the stresses in liners and fibres of composite designs.

6.7.   Leak-before-break (LBB) assessment

Types CNG-1, CNG-2 and CNG-3 cylinders shall demonstrate

Leak-Before-Break (LBB) performance. The LBB performance test shall be carried out in accordance with paragraph A.6 (appendix A). Demonstration of LBB performance is not required for cylinder designs that provide a fatigue life exceeding 45 000 pressure cycles when tested in accordance with paragraph A.13 (appendix A). Two methods of LBB assessment are included for information in appendix F to this annex.

6.8.   Inspection and testing

The manufacturing inspection shall specify programmes and procedures for:

(a)

manufacturing inspection, tests and acceptance criteria; and

(b)

periodic in service inspection, tests and acceptance criteria. The interval of visual reinspection of the external cylinder surfaces shall be in accordance with paragraph 4.1.4. of this annex unless varied by the Competent Authority. The manufacturer shall establish the visual reinspection rejection criteria based on the results of pressure cycling tests performed on cylinders containing flaws. A guide for manufacturer's instructions for handling, use and inspection is provided in appendix G to this annex.

6.9.   Fire protection

All cylinders shall be protected from fire with pressure relief devices. The cylinder, its materials, pressure relief devices and any added insulation or protective material shall be designed collectively to ensure adequate safety during fire conditions in the test specified in paragraph A.15 (appendix A).

Pressure relief devices shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.24 (appendix A).

6.10.   Openings

6.10.1.   General

Openings are permitted in heads only. Centre line of openings shall coincide with the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. Threads shall be clean cut, even, without surface discontinuities, and to gauge.

6.11.   Cylinder supports

The manufacturer shall specify the means by which cylinders shall be supported for installation on vehicles. The manufacturer shall also supply support installation instructions, including clamping force and torque to provide the required restraining force but not cause unacceptable stress in the cylinder or damage to the cylinder surface.

6.12.   Exterior environmental protection

The exterior of cylinders shall meet the requirements of the environmental test conditions of paragraph A.14 (appendix A). Exterior protection may be provided by using any of the following:

(a)

a surface finish giving adequate protection (e.g. metal sprayed on aluminium, anodizing); or

(b)

the use of a suitable fibre and matrix material (e.g. carbon fibre in resin); or

(c)

a protective coating (e.g. organic coating, paint) that shall meet the requirements of paragraph A.9 (appendix A).

Any coatings applied to cylinders shall be such that the application process does not adversely affect the mechanical properties of the cylinder. The coating shall be designed to facilitate subsequent in service inspection and the manufacturer shall provide guidance on coating treatment during such inspection to ensure the continued integrity of the cylinder.

Manufacturers are advised that an environmental performance test that evaluates the suitability of coating systems is provided in the informative appendix H to this annex.

6.13.   Design qualification tests

For the approval of each cylinder type the material, design, manufacture and examination shall be proved to be adequate for their intended service by meeting the appropriate requirements of the material qualification tests summarized in table 6.1 of this annex and the cylinder qualification tests summarized in table 6.4 of this annex, with all tests in accordance with the relevant methods of test as described in appendix A to this annex. The test cylinders or liners shall be selected and the tests witnessed by the Competent Authority. If more cylinders or liners are subjected to the tests than are required by this annex, all results shall be documented.

6.14.   Batch tests

The batch tests specified in this annex for each cylinder type shall be conducted on cylinders or liners taken from each batch of finished cylinders or liners. Heat treated witness samples shown to be representative of finished cylinders or liners may also be used. Batch tests required for each cylinder type are specified in table 6.5 of this annex.

6.15.   Production examinations and tests

6.15.1.   General

Production examinations and tests shall be carried out on all cylinders produced in a batch. Each cylinder shall be examined during manufacture and after completion by the following means:

(a)

ultrasonic scanning (or demonstrated equivalent) of metallic cylinders and liners in accordance with BS 5045, Part 1, annex B, or demonstrated equivalent method, to confirm that the maximum defect size present is smaller than the size specified in the design;

(b)

verification that the critical dimensions and mass of the completed cylinder and of any liner and over-wrapping are within design tolerances;

(c)

verification of compliance with specified surface finish with special attention to deep drawn surfaces and folds or laps in the neck or shoulder of forged or spun end enclosures or openings;

(d)

verification of markings;

(e)

hardness tests of metallic cylinders and liners in accordance with paragraph A.8 (appendix A) shall be carried out after the final heat treatment and the values thus determined shall be in the range specified for the design;

(f)

hydrostatic proof test in accordance with paragraph A.11 (appendix A);

A summary of critical production inspection requirements to be performed on every cylinder is provided in table 6.6 of this annex.

6.15.2.   Maximum defect size

For type CNG-1, CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs, the maximum defect size at any location in the metal cylinder or metal liner that will not grow to a critical size within the specified service life shall be determined. The critical defect size is defined as the limiting through-wall (cylinder or liner) thickness defect that would allow stored gas to be discharged without rupturing the cylinder. Defect sizes for the rejection criteria for ultrasonic scanning, or equivalent shall be smaller than the maximum allowable defect sizes. For type CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs assume that there shall be no damage to composite due to any time-dependent mechanisms; The allowable defect size for NDE shall be determined by an appropriate method. Two such methods are outlined in the informative appendix F to this annex.

6.16.   Failure to meet test requirements

In the event of failure to meet test requirements retesting or reheat treatment and retesting shall be carried out as follows:

(a)

if there is evidence of a fault in carrying out a test, or an error of measurement, a further test shall be performed. If the result of this test is satisfactory, the first test shall be ignored;

(b)

If the test has been carried out in a satisfactory manner, the cause of test failure shall be identified.

If the failure is considered to be due to the heat treatment applied, the manufacturer may subject all the cylinders of the batch to a further heat treatment.

If the failure is not due to the heat treatment applied, all the identified defective cylinders shall be rejected or repaired by an approved method. The non-rejected cylinders are then considered as a new batch.

In both cases the new batch shall be retested. All the relevant prototype or batch tests needed to prove the acceptability of the new batch shall be performed again. If one or more tests prove even partially unsatisfactory, all cylinders of the batch shall be rejected.

6.17.   Change of design

A design change is any change in the selection of structural materials or dimensional change not attributable to normal manufacturing tolerances.

Minor design changes shall be permitted to be qualified through a reduced test program. Changes of design specified in table 6.7 shall require design qualification testing as specified in the table.

Table 6.1

Material design qualification test

 

Relevant paragraph of this annex

Steel

Aluminium

Resins

Fibres

Plastic liners

Tensile properties

6.3.2.2

6.3.3.4

 

6.3.5

6.3.6

Sulfide stress cracking resistance

6.3.2.4

 

 

 

 

Impact properties

6.3.2.3

 

 

 

 

Sustained load cracking resistance

 

6.3.3.3

 

 

 

Stress corrosion cracking

 

6.3.3.2

 

 

 

Shear strength

 

 

6.3.4.2

 

 

Glass transition temperature

 

 

6.3.4.3

 

 

Softening/Melting temperature

 

 

 

 

6.3.6

Fracture mechanics (*1)

6.7

6.7

 

 

 


Table 6.2

Impact test acceptable values

Cylinder diameter D, mm

> 140

≤ 140

Direction of testing

transverse

longitudinal

Width of test piece, mm

3-5

> 5-7,5

> 7,5-10

3 to 5

Test temperature, °C

–50

–50

Mean of 3 specimens

30

35

40

60

Impact strength, J/cm2

 

 

 

 

Individual specimen

24

28

32

48


Table 6.3

Minimum actual burst values and stress ratios

 

CNG-1

All-metal

CNG-2

Hoop-wrapped

CNG-3

Fully-wrapped

CNG-4

All-composite

 

Burst pressure [MPa]

Stress ratio [MPa]

Burst pressure [MPa]

Stress ratio [MPa]

Burst pressure [MPa]

Stress ratio [MPa]

Burst pressure [MPa]

All metal

45

 

 

 

 

 

 

Glass

 

2,75

50 1)

3,65

70 1)

3,65

73

Aramid

 

2,35

47

3,10

60 1)

3,1

62

Carbon

 

2,35

47

2,35

47

2,35

47

Hybrid

 

2)

2)

2)

Note 1: Minimum actual burst pressure. In addition, calculations must be performed in accordance with paragraph 6.5. of this annex to confirm that the minimum stress ratio requirements are also met.

Note 2: Stress ratios and burst pressures shall be calculated in accordance with paragraph 6.5. of this annex.

Table 6.4

Cylinder design qualification tests

Test and annex reference

Cylinder type

CNG-1

CNG-2

CNG-3

CNG-4

A.12

Burst

X (*2)

X

X

X

A.13

Ambient temp/cycle

X (*2)

X

X

X

A.14

Acid environment test

 

X

X

X

A.15

Bonfire

X

X

X

X

A.16

Penetration

X

X

X

X

A.17

Flaw tolerance

 

X

X

X

A.18

High temp. creep

 

X

X

X

A.19

Stress rupture

 

X

X

X

A.20

Drop test

 

 

X

X

A.21

Permeation

 

 

 

X

A.24

PRD performance

X

X

X

X

A.25

Boss torque test

 

 

 

X

A.27

Natural gas cycling

 

 

 

X

A.6

LBB assesment

X

X

X

 

A.7

Extreme temperature/cycle

 

X

X

X

X

= required


Table 6.5

Batch tests

Test and annex reference

Cylinder type

CNG-1

CNG-2

CNG-3

CNG-4

A.12

Burst

X

X

X

X

A.13

Ambient cycle

X

X

X

X

A.1

Tensile

X

X ()

X ()

 

A.2

Impact (steel)

X

X ()

X ()

 

A.9.2

Coating (*3)

X

X

X

X

X

= required


Table 6.6

Critical production inspection requirements

Type

CNG-1

CNG-2

CNG-3

CNG-4

Inspection requirement

 

 

 

 

Critical dimensions

X

X

X

X

Surface finish

X

X

X

X

Flaws (ultrasonic or equivalent)

X

X

X

 

Hardness of metal cylinders and metal liners

X

X

X

 

Hydrostatic proof test

X

X

X

X

Leak test

 

 

 

X

Markings

X

X

X

X

X

= required


Table 6.7

Change of design

 

Type of test

Design change

Burst Hydrostatic A.12

Cycling ambient temp A.13

Environmental A.14

Bonfire A.15

Flaw tolerance A.17

Penetration A.16

Stress rupture A.19 High. temp: Creep A.18 Drop test A.20

Boss torque A.25 Permeation A.21 CNG Cycling A.27

PRD performance A.24

Fibre manufacturer

X

X

 

 

 

 

X (*4)

X ()

 

Metallic cylinder or liner material

X

X

X (*4)

X

X (*4)

X

X (*4)

 

 

Plastic liner material

 

X

X

 

 

 

 

X ()

 

Fibre material

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X ()

 

Resin material

 

 

X

 

X

X

X

 

 

Diameter change ≤ 20 per cent

X

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diameter change > 20 per cent

X

X

 

X

X (*4)

X

 

 

 

Length change ≤ 50 per cent

X

 

 

X ()

 

 

 

 

 

Length change > 50 per cent

X

X

 

X ()

 

 

 

 

 

Working pressure change ≤ 20 per cent @

X

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dome shape

X

X

 

 

 

 

 

X ()

 

Opening size

X

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coating change

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

End boss design

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X ()

 

Change in manuf. process

X

X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pressure relief device

 

 

 

X

 

 

 

 

X

X

= required

@

= Only when thickness change proportional to diameter and/or pressure change

7.   TYPE CNG-1 METAL CYLINDERS

7.1.   General

The design shall identify the maximum size of an allowable defect at any point in the cylinder which will not grow to a critical size within the specified retest period, or service life if no retest is specified, of a cylinder operating to the working pressure. Determination of leak-before-break (LBB) performance shall be done in accordance with the appropriate procedures defined in paragraph A.6 (appendix A). Allowable defect size shall be determined in accordance with paragraph 6.15.2. above.

Cylinders designed in accordance with ISO 9809 and meeting all the requirements therein are only required to meet the materials test requirements of paragraph 6.3.2.4. above and the design qualification test requirements of paragraph 7.5., except paragraphs 7.5.2. and 7.5.3. below.

7.2.   Stress analysis

The stresses in the cylinder shall be calculated for 2 MPa, 20 MPa, test pressure and design burst pressure. The calculations shall use suitable analysis techniques using thin-shell theory that takes into account out-of-plane bending of the shell to establish stress distributions at the neck, transition regions and the cylindrical part of the cylinder.

7.3.   Manufacturing and production test requirements

7.3.1.   General

The ends of aluminium cylinders shall not be closed by a forming process. The base ends of steel cylinders which have been closed by forming, except those cylinders designed in accordance with ISO 9809, shall be NDE inspected or equivalent. Metal shall not be added in the process of closure at the end. Each cylinder shall be examined before end forming operations for thickness and surface finish.

After end forming the cylinders shall be heat treated to the hardness range specified for the design. Localized heat treatment is not permitted.

When a neck ring, foot ring or attachments for support are provided, it shall be of material compatible with that of the cylinder and shall be securely attached by a method other than welding, brazing or soldering.

7.3.2.   Non-destructive examination

The following tests shall be carried out on each metallic cylinder:

(a)

Hardness test in accordance with paragraph A.8 (appendix A),

(b)

Ultrasonic examination, in accordance with BS 5045, Part 1, annex I, or demonstrated equivalent NDT method, to ensure that the maximum defect size does not exceed the size specified in the design as determined in accordance with paragraph 6.15.2. above.

7.3.3.   Hydrostatic pressure testing

Each finished cylinder shall be hydrostatically pressure tested in accordance with paragraph A.11 (appendix A).

7.4.   Cylinder batch tests

Batch testing shall be conducted on finished cylinders which are representative of normal production and are complete with identification marks. Two cylinders shall be randomly selected from each batch. If more cylinders are subjected to the tests than are required by this annex, all results shall be documented. The following tests shall as a minimum be carried out on these.

(a)

Batch materials tests. One cylinder, or a heat treat witness sample representative of a finished cylinder, shall be subjected to the following tests:

(i)

Critical dimensions checked against the design;

(ii)

One tensile test in accordance with paragraph A.1 (appendix A) and meet the requirements of the design;

(iii)

For steel cylinders, three impact tests in accordance with paragraph A.2 (appendix A) and meet the requirements of paragraph 6.3.2.3. above;

(iv)

When a protective coating is a part of the design, the coating shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.9.2 (appendix A);

All cylinders represented by a batch test which fail to meet the specified requirements shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph 6.16. above.

Where the coating fails to meet the requirements of paragraph A.9.2 (appendix A), the batch shall be 100 per cent inspected to remove similarly defective cylinders. The coating on all defective cylinders may be stripped and recoated. The coating batch test shall then be repeated;

(b)

Batch burst test. One cylinder shall be hydrostatically pressurized to burst in accordance with paragraph A.12 (appendix A).

If the burst pressure is less than the minimum calculated burst pressure the procedures specified in paragraph 6.16. above shall be followed.

(c)

Periodic pressure cycling test. Finished cylinders shall be pressure cycled in accordance with paragraph A.13 (appendix A) at a test frequency defined as follows:

(i)

one cylinder from each batch shall be pressure cycled for a total of 1 000 times the specified service life in years, with a minimum 15 000 cycles;

(ii)

on 10 sequential production batches of a design family (i.e. similar materials and processes), should none of the pressure cycled cylinders in (i) above leak or rupture in less than 1 500 cycles times the specified life in years (minimum 22 500 cycles) then the pressure cycle test can be reduced to one cylinder from every 5 batches of production;

(iii)

on 10 sequential production batches of a design family, should none of the pressure cycled cylinders in (i) above leak or rapture in less than 2 000 cycles times the specified service life in years (minimum 30 000 cycles) then the pressure cycle test can be reduced to one cylinder from every 10 batches of production;

(iv)

should more than 6 months have expired since the last batch of production. then a cylinder from the next batch of production shall be pressure cycle tested in order to maintain the reduced frequency of batch testing in (ii) or (iii) above.

(v)

should any reduced frequency pressure cycle test cylinder in (ii) or (iii) above fail to meet the required number of pressure cycles (minimum 22 500 or 30 000 pressure cycles, respectively, ) then it shall be necessary to repeat the batch pressure cycle test frequency in (i) for a minimum 10 production batches in order to re-establish the reduced frequency of batch pressure cycle testing in (ii) or (iii) above.

(vi)

should any cylinder in (i), (ii), or (iii) above fail to meet the minimum cycle life requirement of 1 000 cycles times the specified service life in years (minimum 15 000 cycles), then the cause of failure shall be determined and corrected following the procedures in paragraph 6.16. The pressure cycle test shall then be repeated on an additional three cylinders from that batch. Should any of the three additional cylinders fail to meet the minimum pressure cycling requirement of 1 000 cycles times the specified service life in years, then the batch shall be rejected.

7.5.   Cylinder design qualification tests

7.5.1.   General

Qualification testing shall be conducted on finished cylinders which are representative of normal production and complete with identification marks. Selection, witnessing and documentation of the results shall be in accordance with paragraph 6.13. above.

7.5.2.   Hydrostatic pressure burst test

Three representative cylinders shall be hydrostatically pressurised to failure in accordance with paragraph A.12. (appendix A to this annex). The cylinder burst pressures shall exceed the minimum burst pressure calculated by the stress analysis for the design, and shall be at least 45 MPa.

7.5.3.   Ambient temperature pressure cycling test.

Two finished cylinders shall be pressure cycled at ambient temperature in accordance with paragraph A.13 (appendix A) to failure, or to a minimum of 45 000 cycles. The cylinders shall not fail before reaching the specified service life in years times 1 000 cycles. Cylinders exceeding 1 000 cycles times the specified service life in years shall fail by leakage and not by rupture. Cylinders which do not fail within 45 000 cycles shall be destroyed either by continuing the cycling until failure occurs, or by hydrostatically pressurising to burst. The number of cycles to failure and the location of the failure initiation shall be recorded.

7.5.4.   Bonfire test

Tests shall be conducted in accordance with paragraph A.15 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

7.5.5.   Penetration test

Test shall be conducted in accordance with paragraph A.16 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

7.5.6.   LBB performance

For cylinder designs not exceeding 45 000 cycles when tested as per paragraph 7.5.3. above, LBB performance tests shall be conducted in accordance with A.6 and meet the requirements therein.

8.   TYPE CNG-2 HOOP-WRAPPED CYLINDERS

8.1.   General

During pressurisation, this type of cylinder design has a behaviour in which the displacements of the composite over-wrap and the metal liner are linearly superimposed. Due to different techniques of manufacture, this annex does not give a definite method for design.

Determination of the leak-before-break (LBB) performance shall be in accordance with the appropriate procedures defined in paragraph A.6 (appendix A). Allowable defect size shall be determined in accordance with paragraph 6.15.2. above.

8.2.   Design requirements

8.2.1.   Metal liner

The metal liner shall have a minimum actual burst pressure of 26 MPa.

8.2.2.   Composite over-wrap

The tensile stress in the fibres shall meet the requirements of paragraph 6.5. above.

8.2.3.   Stress analysis

The stresses in the composite and in the liner after prestress shall be calculated. The pressures used for these calculations shall be zero, 2 MPa, 20 MPa test pressure and design burst pressure. The calculations shall use suitable analysis techniques using thin-shell theory taking account of non-linear material behaviour of the liner to establish stress distributions at the neck, transition regions and the cylindrical part of the liner.

For designs using auto-frettage to provide prestress, the limits within which the auto-frettage pressure must fall shall be calculated.

For designs using controlled tension winding to provide prestress, the temperature at which it is performed, the tension required in each layer of composite and the consequent prestress in the liner shall be calculated.

8.3.   Manufacturing requirements

8.3.1.   General

The composite cylinder shall be fabricated from a liner over-wrapped with continuous filament windings. Filament winding operations shall be computer or mechanically controlled. The filaments shall be applied under controlled tension during winding. After winding is complete, thermosetting resins shall be cured by heating, using a predetermined and controlled time-temperature profile.

8.3.2.   Liner

The manufacture of a metallic liner shall meet the requirements given under paragraph 7.3. above for the appropriate type of liner construction.

Over-wrap

The cylinders shall be fabricated in a filament winding machine. During winding the significant variables shall be monitored within specified tolerances, and documented in a winding record. These variables can include but are not limited to:

(a)

fibre type including sizing;

(b)

manner of impregnation;

(c)

winding tension;

(d)

winding speed;

(e)

number of rovings;

(f)

band width;

(g)

type of resin and composition;

(h)

temperature of the resin;

(i)

temperature of the liner.

8.3.3.1.   Curing of thermosetting resins

If a thermosetting resin is used, the resin shall be cured after filament winding. During the curing, the curing cycle (i.e. the time-temperature history) shall be documented.

The curing temperature shall be controlled and shall not affect the material properties of the liner. The maximum curing temperature for cylinders with aluminium liners is 177 °C.

8.3.4.   Auto-frettage

Auto-frettage, if used, shall be carried out before the hydrostatic pressure test. The auto-frettage pressure shall be within the limits established in paragraph 8.2.3. above, and the manufacturer shall establish the method to verify the appropriate pressure.

8.4.   Production test requirements

8.4.1.   Non-destructive examination

Non-destructive examinations shall be carried out in accordance with a recognized ISO or an equivalent standard. The following tests shall be carried out on each metallic liner:

(a)

Hardness test in accordance with paragraph A.8 (appendix A);

(b)

Ultrasonic examination, in accordance with BS 5045, Part 1, annex 1B, or demonstrated equivalent NDT method, to ensure that the maximum defect size does not exceed the size specified in the design.

8.4.2.   Hydrostatic pressure testing

Each finished cylinder shall be hydrostatically pressure tested in accordance with paragraph A.11 (appendix A). The manufacturer shall define the appropriate limit of permanent volumetric expansion for the test pressure used, but in no case shall the permanent expansion exceed 5per cent of the total volumetric expansion at test pressure. Any cylinders not meeting the defined rejection limit shall be rejected and either destroyed or used for batch rest purposes.

8.5.   Cylinder batch tests

8.5.1.   General

Batch testing shall be conducted on finished cylinders which are representative of normal production and are complete with identification marks. Two cylinders, or a cylinder and a liner as appropriate, shall be randomly selected from each batch. If more cylinders are subjected to the tests than are required by this annex, all results shall be documented. The following tests shall as a minimum be carried out on these.

Where defects are detected in over-wrapping before any auto-frettage or hydrostatic pressure testing, the over-wrapping may be completely removed and replaced;

(a)

Batch materials tests. One cylinder, or liner, or heat treat witness sample that is representative of a finished cylinder, shall be subjected to the following tests:

(i)

Dimensions checked against the design;

(ii)

One tensile test in accordance with paragraph A.1 (appendix A) and meet the requirements of the design;

(iii)

For steel liners, three impact tests in accordance with paragraph A.2 (appendix A) and meet the requirements of the design;

(iv)

When a protective coating is a part of the design, the coating shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.9.2 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein. All cylinders or liners represented by a batch test which fails to meet the requirements specified shall follow the procedures specified in paragraph 6.16. above.

Where the coating fails to meet the requirements of paragraph A.9.2. (appendix A), the batch shall be 100 per cent inspected to remove similarly defective cylinders. The coating on all defective cylinders may be stripped using a method that does not affect the integrity of the composite wrapping, and recoated. The coating batch test shall then be repeated.

(b)

Batch burst test. One cylinder shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 7.4(b) above;

(c)

Periodic pressure cycling test. In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 7.4(c) above.

8.6.   Cylinder design qualification tests

8.6.1.   General

Qualification testing shall be conducted on cylinders which are representative of normal production and complete with identification marks. Selection, witnessing and documentation of the results shall comply with paragraph 6.13. above.

8.6.2.   Hydrostatic pressure burst test

(a)

One liner shall be hydrostatically burst in accordance with paragraph A.12. (appendix A). The burst pressure shall exceed the minimum burst pressure specified for the liner design;

(b)

Three cylinders shall be hydrostatically burst in accordance with paragraph A.12 (appendix A). Cylinder burst pressures shall exceed the specified minimum burst pressure established by the stress analysis for the design, in accordance with table 6.3, and in no case less than the value necessary to meet the stress ratio requirements of paragraph 6.5 above.

8.6.3.   Ambient temperature pressure cycling test

Two finished cylinders shall be pressure cycle tested at ambient temperature in accordance with paragraph A.13 (appendix A) to failure, or to a minimum of 45 000 cycles. The cylinders shall not fail before reaching the specified service life in years times 1 000 cycles. Cylinders exceeding 1 000 cycles times the specified service life in years shall fail by leakage and not by rupture. Cylinders which do not fail within 45 000 cycles shall be destroyed either by continuing the cycling until failure occurs, or by hydrostatically pressurizing to burst. Cylinders exceeding 45 000 cycles are permitted to fail by rupture. The number of cycles to failure and the location of the failure initiation shall be recorded.

8.6.4.   Acid environment test

One cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.14 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein. An optional environmental test is included in the informative appendix H to this annex.

8.6.5.   Bonfire test

Finished cylinders shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.15 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

8.6.6.   Penetration test

One finished cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.16 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

8.6.7.   Flaw tolerance tests

One finished cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.17 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

8.6.8.   High temperature creep test

In designs where the glass transition temperature of the resin does not exceed the maximum design material temperature by at least 20 °C, one cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.18 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

8.6.9.   Accelerated stress rupture test

One finished cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.19 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

8.6.10.   LBB performance

For cylinder designs not exceeding 45 000 cycles when tested as per paragraph 8.6.3. above, LBB performance tests shall be conducted in accordance with A.6 and meet the requirements therein.

8.6.11.   Extreme temperature pressure cycling test

One finished cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.7 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

9.   TYPE CNG-3 FULLY-WRAPPED CYLINDERS

9.1.   General

During pressurisation, this type of cylinder has a behaviour in which the displacements of the composite over-wrap and the liner are superimposed. Due to different techniques of manufacture, this annex does not give a definite method for design; Determination of the leak-before-break (LBB) performance shall be in accordance with the appropriate procedures defined in paragraph A.6 (appendix A). Allowable defect size shall be determined in accordance with paragraph 6.15.2. above.

9.2.   Design requirements

9.2.1.   Metal liner

The compressive stress in the liner at zero pressure and 15 °C shall not cause the liner to buckle or crease.

9.2.2.   Composite over-wrap

The tensile stress in the fibres shall meet the requirements of paragraph 6.5. above.

9.2.3.   Stress analysis

The stresses in the tangential and longitudinal direction of the cylinder in the composite and in the liner after pressure shall be calculated. The pressure used for these calculations shall be zero, working pressure, 10 per cent of working pressure, test pressure and design burst pressure. The limits within which autofrettaging pressure must fall shall be calculated, The calculations shall use suitable analysis techniques using thin-shell theory taking account of non-linear material behaviour of the liner to establish stress distributions at the neck, transition regions and the cylindrical part of the liner.

9.3.   Manufacturing requirements

Manufacturing requirements shall be in accordance with paragraph 8.3. above except that the over-wrap shall also include helically wound filaments.

9.4.   Production test requirements

Production test requirements shall be in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 8.4. above.

9.5.   Cylinder batch tests

The batch tests shall be in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 8.5. above.

9.6.   Cylinder design qualification tests

Cylinder design qualification tests shall be in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 8.6. above, and paragraph 9.6.1. below, except that the liner burst in paragraph 8.6. above is not required.

9.6.1.   Drop test

One or more finished cylinders shall be drop tested in accordance with paragraph A.30 (appendix A).

10.   TYPE CNG-4 ALL-COMPOSITE CYLINDERS

10.1.   General

This annex does not give a definite method for the design of cylinders with polymeric liners because of the variety of cylinder designs possible.

10.2.   Design requirements

Design calculations shall be used to provide justification of design adequacy. The tensile stresses in the fibres shall meet the requirements of paragraph 6.5. above.

Tapered and straight threads in accordance with paragraph 6.10.2. or 6.10.3. above shall be used on the metal end bosses.

Metal end bosses with threaded openings shall be able to withstand a torque force of 500 Nm, without damaging the integrity of the connection to the non-metallic liner. The metal end bosses connected to the non-metallic liner shall be of a material compatible with the service conditions specified in paragraph 4 of this annex.

10.3.   Stress analysis

The stresses in the tangential and longitudinal direction of the cylinder in the composite and in the liner shall be calculated. The pressures used for these calculations shall be zero, working pressure, test pressure and design burst pressure. The calculations shall use suitable analysis techniques to establish stress distribution throughout the cylinder.

10.4.   Manufacturing requirements

Manufacturing requirements shall be in accordance with paragraph 8.3. above except that the curing temperature for thermosetting resins shall be at least 10 °C below the softening temperature of the plastic liner.

10.5.   Production test requirements

10.5.1.   Hydrostatic pressure testing

Each finished cylinder shall be hydrostatically pressure tested in accordance with paragraph A.11 (appendix A). The manufacturer shall define the appropriate limit of elastic expansion for the test pressure used, but in no case shall the elastic expansion of any cylinder exceed the average batch value by more than 10 per cent. Any cylinders not meeting the defined rejection limit shall be rejected and either destroyed or used for batch test purposes.

10.5.2.   Leak testing

Each finished cylinder shall be leak tested in accordance with paragraph A.10 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

10.6.   Cylinder batch tests

10.6.1.   General

Batch testing shall be conducted on finished cylinders which are representative of normal production and are complete with identification marks. One cylinder shall be randomly selected from each batch. If more cylinders are subjected to the tests than are required by this annex, all results shall be documented. The following tests shall as a minimum be carried out on these.

(a)

Batch materials test

One cylinder, or liner, or liner witness sample that is representative of a finished cylinder, shall be subjected to the following tests:

(i)

Dimensions checked against the design;

(ii)

One tensile test of the plastic liner in accordance with paragraph A.22 (appendix A) and meet the requirements of the design;

(iii)

The melt temperature of the plastic liner shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.23 (appendix A), and meet the requirements of the design;

(iv)

When a protective coating is a part of the design, the coating shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.9.2 (appendix A). Where the coating fails to meet the requirements of paragraph A.9.2 (appendix A), the batch shall be 100 per cent inspected to remove similarly defective cylinders. The coating on all defective cylinders may be stripped using a method that does not affect the integrity of the composite wrapping, and recoated. The coating batch test shall then be repeated.

(b)

Batch burst test

One cylinder shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 7.4(b) above;

(c)

Periodic pressure cycling test

On one cylinder the end boss shall be torque tested to 500 Nm in accordance with the test method in paragraph A.25 (appendix A). The cylinder shall then be pressure cycle tested in accordance with the procedures provided in paragraph 7.4(c) above.

Following the required pressure cycling, the cylinder shall be leak tested in accordance with the method described in paragraph A.10 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

10.7.   Cylinder design qualification tests

10.7.1.   General

Cylinder design qualification tests shall be in accordance with the requirements of paragraphs 8.6., 10.7.2., 10.7.3. and 10.7.4. of this annex, except that the LBB performance in paragraph 8.6.10. above is not required.

10.7.2.   Boss torque test

One cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.25 (appendix A).

10.7.3.   Permeation test

One cylinder shall be tested for permeation in accordance with paragraph A.21 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

10.7.4.   Natural gas cycling test

One finished cylinder shall be tested in accordance with paragraph A.27 (appendix A) and meet the requirements therein.

11.   MARKING

11.1.   Provision of marking

On each cylinder the manufacturer shall provide clear permanent markings not less than 6 mm high. Marking shall be made either by labels incorporated into resin coatings, labels attached by adhesive, low stress stamps used on the thickened ends of type CNG-1 and CNG-2 designs, or any combination of the above. Adhesive labels and their application shall be in accordance with ISO 7225, or an equivalent Standard. Multiple labels are allowed and should be located such that they are not obscured by mounting brackets. Each cylinder complying with this annex shall be marked as follows:

(a)

Mandatory information:

(i)

‘CNG only’;

(ii)

‘Do not use after XX/XXXX’, where ‘XX/XXXX’ identifies the month and the year of expiry (5);

(iii)

Manufacturer's identification;

(iv)

Cylinder identification (applicable part number and a serial number unique for every cylinder);

(v)

Working pressure and temperature;

(vi)

ECE Regulation number, along with cylinder type and certification registration number;

(vii)

The pressure relief devices and/or valves which are qualified for use with the cylinder, or the means for obtaining information on qualified fire protection systems;

(viii)

When labels are used, all cylinders shall have a unique identification number stamped on an exposed metal surface to permit tracing in the event that the label is destroyed;

(b)

Non-mandatory information:

On a separate label(s) the following non-mandatory information may be provided:

(i)

Gas temperature range, e.g. –40 °C to 65 °C;

(ii)

Nominal water capacity of the cylinder to two significant numbers. e.g. 120 litres;

(iii)

Date of original pressure test (month and year).

The markings shall be placed in the listed sequence but the specific arrangement may be varied to match the space available. An acceptable example of mandatory information is:

CNG ONLY

DO NOT USE AFTER ../....

Manufacturer/Part Number/Serial Number

20 MPa/15 °C

ECE R 110 CNG-2 (registration No)

&#x2018;Use Only Manufacturer-Approved Pressure Relief Device&#x2019;

12.   PREPARATION FOR DISPATCH

Prior to dispatch from the manufacturers shop, every cylinder shall be internally clean and dried. Cylinders not immediately closed by the fitting of a valve, and safety devices if applicable, shall have plugs, which prevent entry of moisture and protect threads, fitted to all openings. A corrosion inhibitor (e.g. oil-containing) shall be sprayed into all steel cylinders and liners prior to dispatch.

The manufacturer's statement of service and all necessary information to ensure the proper handling, use and in-service inspection of the cylinder shall be supplied to the purchaser. The statement shall be in accordance with appendix D to this annex.


(1)  American Society for Testing and Materials.

(2)  British Standards Institution.

(3)  International Organization for Standardization.

(4)  National Association of Corrosion Engineers.

(*1)  Not required if use flawed cylinder test approach in paragraph A.7 (appendix A).

(*2)  = Not required for cylinders designed to ISO 9809 (ISO 9809 already provides for these tests).

(*3)  = Except where no protective coating is used

()  = Tests on liner material

(*4)  = Test not required on metal (CNG-1) designs

()  = Test only required on all-composite (CNG-4) designs

()  = Test only required when length increases

(5)  The expiry date shall not exceed the specified service life. The expiry date may be applied to the cylinder at the time of dispatch, provided that the cylinders have been stored in a dry location without internal pressure.

Appendix A

TEST METHODS

A.1.   Tensile tests, steel and aluminium

A tensile test shall be carried out on the material taken from the cylindrical part of the finished cylinder using a rectangular test piece shaped in accordance with the method described in ISO 9809 for steel and ISO 7866 for aluminium. The two faces of the test piece representing the inside and outside surface of the cylinder shall not be machined; The tensile test shall be carried out in accordance with ISO 6892.

Note: Attention is drawn to the method of measurement of elongation described in ISO 6892, particularly in cases where the tensile test piece is tapered, resulting in a point of fracture away from the middle of the gauge length.

A.2.   Impact test, steel cylinders and steel liners

The impact test shall be carried out on the material taken from the cylindrical part of the finished cylinder on three test pieces in accordance with ISO 148. The impact test pieces shall be taken in the direction as required in table 6.2 of annex 3 from the wall of the cylinder. The notch shall be perpendicular to the face of the cylinder wall. For longitudinal tests the test piece shall be machined all over (on six faces), if the wall thickness does not permit a final test piece width of 10 mm, the width shall be as near as practicable to the nominal thickness of the cylinder wall. The test pieces taken in transverse direction shall be machined on four faces only, the inner and outer face of the cylinder wall unmachined.

A.3.   Sulphide stress cracking test for steel

Except as identified in the following, testing shall be conducted in accordance with Method A-NACE Standard Tensile Test procedures, as described in NACE Standard TM0177-96. Tests shall be conducted on a minimum of three tensile specimens with a gauge diameter of 3,81 mm (0,150 inches) machined from the wall of a finished cylinder or liner. The specimens shall be placed under a constant tensile load equal to 60 per cent of the specified minimum yield strength of the steel, immersed in a solution of distilled water buffered with 0,5 per cent (mass fraction) sodium acetate trihydrate and adjusted to an initial pH of 4,0, using acetic acid.

The solution shall be continuously saturated at room temperature and pressure with 0,414 kPa (0,06 psia) hydrogen sulphide (balance nitrogen). The tested specimens shall not fail within a test duration of 144 hours.

A.4.   Corrosion tests, aluminium

Corrosion tests for aluminium alloys shall be carried out in accordance with annex A of ISO/DIS 7866 and meet the requirements therein.

A.5.   Sustained load cracking tests, aluminium

The resistance to SLC shall be carried out in accordance with annex D of ISO/DIS 7866 and shall meet the requirements therein;

A.6.   Leak-Before-Break (LBB) performance test

Three finished cylinders shall be pressure cycled between not more than 2 MPa and nor less than 30 MPa at a rate not to exceed 10 cycles per minute.

All cylinders shall fail by leakage.

A.7.   Extreme temperature pressure cycling

Finished cylinders, with the composite wrapping free of any protective coating, shall be cycle tested, without showing evidence of rupture, leakage, or fibre unravelling, as follows:

(a)

Condition for 48 hours at zero pressure, 65 °C or higher, and 95 per cent or greater relative humidity. The intent of this requirement shall be deemed met by spraying with a fine spray or mist of water in a chamber held at 65 °C;

(b)

Hydrostatically pressurized for 500 cycles times the specified service life in years between not more than 2 MPa and not less than 26 MPa at 65° or higher and 95 per cent humidity;

(c)

Stabilize at zero pressure and ambient temperature;

(d)

Then pressurize from not more than 2 MPa to not less than 20 MPa for 500 cycles times the specified service life in years at –40 °C or lower;

The pressure cycling rate of b) shall not exceed 10 cycles per minute. The pressure cycling rate of d) shall not exceed 3 cycles per minute unless a pressure transducer is installed directly within the cylinder. Adequate recording instrumentation shall be provided to ensure the minimum temperature of the fluid is maintained during the low temperature cycling.

Following pressure cycling at extreme temperatures, cylinders shall be hydrostatically pressured to failure in accordance with the hydrostatic burst test requirements, and achieve a minimum burst pressure of 85 per cent of the minimum design burst pressure. For type CNG-4 designs, prior to the hydrostatic burst test the cylinder shall be leak tested in accordance with paragraph A.10 below.

A.8.   Brinell hardness test

Hardness tests shall be carried out on the parallel wall at the centre and a domed end of each cylinder or liner in accordance with ISO 6506. The test shall be carried out after the final heat treatment and the hardness values thus determined shall be in the range specified for the design.

Coating tests (mandatory if paragraph 6.12 c) of annex 3 is used)

A.9.1.   Coating performance tests

Coatings shall be evaluated using the following test methods, or using equivalent National Standards.

(i)

adhesion testing in accordance with LSO 4624 using Method A or B as applicable. The coating shall exhibit an adhesion rating of either 4A or 4B, as applicable;

(ii)

flexibility in accordance with ASTM D522 Mandrel Bend Test of Attached Organic Coatings, using Test Method B with a 12,7 mm(0,5 in) mandrel at the specified thickness at –20 °C.

Samples for the flexibility test shall be prepared in accordance with the ASTM D522 standard. There shall not be any visually apparent cracks;

(iii)

impact resistance in accordance with ASTM D2794 Test method for Resistance of Organic Coatings to the Effects of Rapid Deformation (Impact). The coating at room temperature shall pass a forward impact test of 18 J (160 in-lbs);

(iv)

chemical resistance when tested in general accordance with ASTM D1308 Effect of Household Chemicals on Clear and Pigmented Organic Finishes. The tests shall be conducted using the Open Spot Test Method and 100 hour exposure to a 30 per cent sulfuric acid solution (battery acid with a specific gravity of 1,219) and 24 hour exposure to a polyalkalene glycol (e.g. brake fluid). There shall be no evidence of lifting, blistering or softening of the coating. The adhesion shall meet a rating of 3 when tested in accordance with ASTM D3359;

(v)

Minimum 1 000 hours exposure in accordance with ASTM G53 Practice for Operating Light- and Water-Exposure Apparatus (Fluorescent W-Condensation Type) for Exposure of non-metallic Materials. There shall be no evidence of blistering, and adhesion shall meet a rating of 3 when tested in accordance with ISO 4624. The maximum gloss loss allowed is 20 per cent;

(vi)

minimum 500 hours exposure in accordance with ASTM B117 Test Method of Salt Spray (Fog) Testing. Undercutting shall not exceed 3 mm at the scribe mark, there shall be no evidence of blistering, and adhesion shall meet a rating of 3 when tested in accordance with ASTM D3359;

(vii)

resistance to chipping at room temperature using the ASTM D3170 Chipping Resistance of Coatings. The coating shall have a rating of 7A or better, and there shall not be any exposure of the substrate;

A.9.2.   Coating batch tests

(i)

Coating thickness

The thickness of the coating shall meet the requirements of the design when tested in accordance with ISO 2808;

(ii)

Coating adhesion

The coating adhesion strength shall be measured in accordance with ISO 4624, and shall have a minimum rating of 4 when measured using either Test Method A or B, as appropriate.

A.10.   Leak test

Type CNG-4 designs shall be leak tested using the following procedure (or an acceptable alternative);

(a)

cylinders shall be thoroughly dried and pressurized to working pressure with dry air or nitrogen, and containing a detectable gas such as helium;

(b)

any leakage measured at any point that exceeds 0,004 standard cm3/h shall be cause for rejection.

A.11.   Hydraulic test

One of the following two options shall be used:

Option 1: Water jacket test

(a)

The cylinder shall be hydrostatically tested to at least 1,5 times working pressure. In no case may the test pressure exceed the auto-frettage pressure;

(b)

Pressure shall be maintained for a sufficiently long period (at least 30 seconds) to ensure complete expansion. Any internal pressure applied after auto-frettage and previous to the hydrostatic test shall not exceed 90 per cent of the hydrostatic test pressure. If the test pressure cannot be maintained due to failure of the test apparatus, it is permissible to repeat the test at a pressure increased by 700 kPa. Not more than 2 such repeat rests are permitted;

(c)

The manufacturer shall define the appropriate limit of permanent volumetric expansion for the test pressure used, but in no case shall the permanent expansion exceed 5 per cent of the total volumetric expansion measured under the test pressure. For type CNG-4 designs, the elastic expansion shall be established by the manufacturer. Any cylinders not meeting the defined rejection limit shall be rejected and either destroyed or used for batch test purposes.

Option 2: Proof pressure test

The hydrostatic pressure in the cylinder shall be increased gradually and regularly until the test pressure, at least 1,5 times working pressure, is reached. The cylinder test pressure shall be held for a sufficiently long period (at least 30 seconds) to ascertain that there is no tendency for the pressure to decrease and that tightness is guaranteed;

A.12.   Hydrostatic pressure burst test

(a)

The rate of pressurisation shall not exceed 1,4 MPa per second (200 psi/second) at pressures in excess of 80 per cent of the design burst pressure. If the rate of pressurisation at pressures in excess of 80 per cent of the design burst pressure exceeds 350 kPa/second (50 psi/second), then either the cylinder must be placed schematically between the pressure source and the pressure measurement device, or there must be a 5 second hold at the minimum design burst pressure;

(b)

The minimum required (calculated) burst pressure shall be at least 45 MPa, and in no case less than the value necessary to meet the stress ratio requirements. Actual burst pressure shall be recorded. Rupture may occur in either the cylindrical region or the dome region of the cylinder.

A.13.   Ambient temperature pressure cycling

Pressure cycling shall be performed in accordance with the following procedure:

(a)

fill the cylinder to be tested with a non-corrosive fluid such as oil, inhibited water or glycol;

(b)

cycle the pressure in the cylinder between not more than 2 MPa and not less than 26 MPa at a rate not to exceed 10 cycles per minute.

The number of cycles to failure shall be reported, along with the location and description of the failure initiation.

A.14.   Acid environment test

On a finished cylinder the following test procedure should be applied:

(i)

exposing a 150 mm diameter area on the cylinder surface for 100 hours to a 30 per cent sulfuric acid solution (battery acid with a specific gravity of 1,219) while the cylinder is held at 26 MPa;

(ii)

the cylinder shall then be burst in accordance with the procedure defined in paragraph A.12 above and provide a burst pressure that exceeds 85 per cent of the minimum design burst pressure.

A.15.   Bonfire test

A.15.1.   General

The bonfire tests are designed to demonstrate that finished cylinders complete with the fire protection system (cylinder valve, pressure relief devices and/or integral thermal insulation) specified in the design will not burst when tested under the specified fire conditions. Extreme caution must be exercised during fire testing in the event that cylinder rupture occurs;

A.15.2.   Cylinder set-up

Cylinders shall be placed horizontally with the cylinder bottom approximately 100 mm above the fire source;

Metallic shielding shall be used to prevent direct flame impingement on cylinder valves, fittings, and/or pressure relief devices. The metallic shielding shall not be in direct contact with the specified fire protection system (pressure relief devices or cylinder valve). Any failure during the test of a valve, fitting or tubing that is not part of the intended protection system for the design shall invalidate the result.

A.15.3.   Fire source

A uniform fire source of 1,65 m length shall provide direct flame impingement on the cylinder surface across its entire diameter.

Any fuel may be used for the fire source provided it supplies uniform heat sufficient to maintain the specified test temperatures until the cylinder is vented. The selection of fuel should take into consideration air pollution concerns. The arrangement of the fire shall be recorded in sufficient detail to ensure the rate of heat input to the cylinder is reproducible. Any failure or inconsistency of the fire source during a test invalidate the result;

A.15.4.   Temperature and pressure measurements

Surface temperatures shall be monitored by at least three thermocouples located along the bottom of the cylinder and spaced not more than 0,75 m apart; Metallic shielding shall be used to prevent direct flame impingement on the thermocouples. Alternatively, thermocouples may be inserted into blocks of metal measuring less than 25 mm square.

Thermocouple temperatures and the cylinder pressure shall be recorded at intervals of every 30 seconds or less during the test.

A.15.5.   General test requirements

Cylinders shall be pressurized with natural gas and tested in the horizontal position at both:

(a)

working pressure;

(b)

25 per cent of the working pressure.

Immediately following ignition, the fire shall produce flame impingement on the surface of the cylinder along the 1,65 m length of the fire source and across the cylinder diameter. Within 5 minutes of ignition, at least one thermocouple shall indicate a temperature of at least 590 °C. This minimum temperature shall be maintained for the remaining duration of the test.

A.15.6.   Cylinders 1,65 m length or less

The centre of the cylinder shall be positioned over the centre of the fire source;

A.15.7.   Cylinders greater than 1,65 m length

If the cylinder is fitted with a pressure relief device at one end, the fire source shall commence at the opposite end of the cylinder; If the cylinder is fitted with pressure relief devices at both ends, or at more than one location along the length of the cylinder, the centre of the fire source shall be centred midway between the pressure relief devices that are separated by the greatest horizontal distance.

If the cylinder is additionally protected using thermal insulation, then two fire tests at service pressure shall be performed, one with the fire centred midway along the cylinder length, and the other with the fire commencing at one of the cylinder ends.

A.15.8.   Acceptable results

The cylinder shall vent through a pressure relief device.

A.16.   Penetration tests

A cylinder pressurised to 20 MPa ±1 MPa with compressed gas shall be penetrated by an armour piercing bullet with a diameter of 7,62 mm or greater. The bullet shall completely penetrate at least one side wall of the cylinder. For type CNG-2, CNG-3 and CNG-4 designs, the projectile shall impact the side wall at an approximate angle of 45°. The cylinder shall reveal no evidence of fragmentation failure. Loss of small pieces of material, each not weighing more than 45 grams, shall not constitute failure of the test. The approximate size of entrance and exit openings and their locations shall be recorded.

A.17.   Composite flaw tolerance tests

For type CNG-2, CNG-3 and CNG-4 designs only, one finished cylinder, complete with protective coating, shall have flaws in the longitudinal direction cut into the composite. The flaws shall be greater than the visual inspection limits as specified by the manufacturer.

The flawed cylinder shall then be pressure cycled from not more than 2 MPa to not less than 26 MPa for 3 000 cycles, followed by an additional 12 000 cycles at ambient temperature; The cylinder shall not leak or rupture within the first 3 000 cycles, but may fail by leakage during the last 12 000 cycles. All cylinders which complete this test shall be destroyed.

A.18.   High temperature creep test

This test is required for all type CNG-4 designs, and all type CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs in which the glass transition temperature of the resin matrix does not exceed the maximum design material temperature given in paragraph 4.4.2. of annex 3 by at least 20 °C.

One finished cylinder shall be tested as follows:

(a)

The cylinder shall be pressurised to 26 MPa and held at a temperature of 100 °C for not less than 200 hours;

(b)

Following the test, the cylinder shall meet the requirements of the hydrostatic expansion test A.11, the leak test A.10, and the burst test A.12 above.

A.19.   Accelerated stress rupture test

For type CNG-2, CNG-3, and CNG-4 designs only, one cylinder free of protective coating shall be hydrostatically pressurised to 26 MPa while immersed in water at 65 °C. The cylinder shall be held at this pressure and temperature for 1 000 hours. The cylinder shall then be pressured to burst in accordance with the procedure defined in paragraph A.12 above except that the burst pressure shall exceed 85 per cent of the minimum design burst pressure;

A.20.   Impact damage test

One or more finished cylinders shall be drop tested at ambient temperature without internal pressurisation or attached valves. The surface onto which the cylinders are dropped shall be a smooth, horizontal concrete pad or flooring. One cylinder shall be dropped in a horizontal position with the bottom 1,8 m above the surface onto which it is dropped. One cylinder shall be dropped vertically on each end at a sufficient height above the floor or pad so that the potential energy is 488 J, but in no case shall the height of the lower end be greater than 1,8 m. One cylinder shall be dropped at a 45° angle onto a dome from a height such that the centre of gravity is at 1,8 m; however, if the lower end is closer to the ground than 0,6 m, the drop angle shall be changed to maintain a minimum height of 0,6 m and a centre of gravity of 1,8 m.

Following the drop impact, the cylinders shall be pressure cycled from not more than 2 MPa to not less than 26 MPa bar for 1 000 cycles times the specified service life in years. The cylinders may leak but not rupture, during the cycling. Any cylinders completing the cycling test shall be destroyed;

A.21.   Permeation test

This test is only required on type CNG-4 designs. One finished cylinder shall be filled with compressed natural gas or a 90 per cent nitrogen/10 per cent helium mixture to working pressure, placed in an enclosed sealed chamber at ambient temperature, and monitored for leakage for a time sufficient to establish a steady state permeation rate. The permeation rate shall be less than 0,25 ml of natural gas or helium per hour per litre water capacity of the cylinder.

A.22.   Tensile properties of plastics

The tensile yield strength and ultimate elongation of plastic liner material shall be determined at –50 °C using ISO 3628, and meet the requirements of paragraph 6.3.6. of annex 3.

A.23.   Melting temperature of plastics

Polymeric materials from finished liners shall be tested in accordance with the method described in ISO 306, and meet the requirements of paragraph 6.3.6. of annex 3.

A.24.   Pressure relief device requirements

Pressure relief devices specified by the manufacturer shall be shown to be compatible with the service conditions listed in paragraph 4. of annex 3 and through the following qualification tests:

(a)

One specimen shall be held at a controlled temperature of not less than 95 °C and a pressure not less than test pressure (30 MPa) for 24 hours. At the end of this test there shall be no leakage or visible sign of extrusion of any fusible metal used in the design.

(b)

One specimen shall be fatigue tested at a pressure cycling rate not to exceed 4 cycles per minute as follows:

(i)

held at 82 °C while pressured for 10 000 cycles between 2 MPa and 26 MPa;

(ii)

held at –40 °C while pressure for 10 000 cycles between 2 MPa and 20 MPa.

At the end of this test there shall be no leakage, or any visible sign of extrusion of any fusible metal used in the design.

(c)

Exposed brass pressure retaining components of pressure relief devices shall withstand, without stress corrosion cracking, a mercurous nitrate test as described in ASTM B154. The pressure relief device shall be immersed for 30 minutes in an aqueous mercurous nitrate solution containing 10 g of mercurous nitrate and 10 ml of nitric acid per litre of solution. Following the immersion, the pressure relief device shall be leak tested by applying an aerostatic pressure of 26 MPa for one minute during which time the component shall be checked for external leakage; Any leakage shall not exceed 200 cm3/h;

(d)

Exposed stainless steel pressure retaining components of pressure relief devices shall be made of an alloy type resistant to chloride induced stress corrosion cracking;

A.25.   Boss torque test

The body of the cylinder shall be restrained against rotation and a torque of 500 Nm shall be applied to each end boss of the cylinder, first in the direction to tighten a threaded connection, then in the untightening direction, and finally again in the tightening direction.

A.26.   Resin shear strength

Resin materials shall be tested on a sample coupon representative of the composite over-wrap in accordance with ASTM D2344, or an equivalent National Standard. Following a 24-hour water boil the composite shall have a minimum shear strength of 13,8 MPa.

A.27.   Natural gas cycling test

One finished cylinder shall be pressure cycled using compressed natural gas from less than 2 MPa to working pressure for 300 cycles. Each cycle, consisting of the filling and venting of the cylinder, shall not exceed 1 hour. The cylinder shall be leak tested in accordance with paragraph A.10 above and meet the requirements therein. Following the completion of the natural gas cycling the cylinder shall be sectioned and the liner/end boss interface inspected for evidence of any deterioration, such as fatigue cracking or electrostatic discharge.

Note: Special consideration must be given to safety when conducting this test. Prior to conducting this test, cylinders of this design must have successfully passed the test requirements of paragraph A.12 above (hydrostatic pressure burst test), paragraph 8.6.3 of annex 3 (ambient temperature pressure cycling test) and paragraph A.21 above (permeation test). Prior to conducting this test, the specific cylinders to be tested must pass the test requirements of paragraph A.10 above (leak test).

A.28.   Manual valve device requirements

One specimen shall be submitted to a fatigue test at a pressure cycling rate not to exceed 4 cycles per minute as follows:

(i)

held at 20 °C while pressured for 2 000 cycles between 2 MPa and 26 MPa.

Appendix B

(Not allocated)

Appendix C

(Not allocated)

Appendix D

REPORT FORMS

Note: This appendix is not a mandatory part of this annex. The following forms should be used:

(1)

Report of Manufacture & Certificate of Conformance — Required to be clear, legible and in the format of Form 1:

(2)

Report (1) of Chemical Analysis of Material for Metallic Cylinders, Liners, or Bosses — Required essential elements, identification, etc.

(3)

Report (1) of Mechanical Properties of Material for Metallic Cylinders and Liners — Required to report all tests required by this Regulation.

(4)

Report (1) of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Materials for Non Metallic Liners — Required to report all tests and information required in this Regulation.

(5)

Report (1) of Composite Analysis — Required to report all tests and data required in this Regulation.

(6)

Report of Hydrostatic Tests, Periodic Pressure Cycling and Burst Tests — Required to report test and data required in this Regulation.

Image 56

Text of image

(1)  Report forms 2 through 6 shall be developed by the manufacturer and must fully identify cylinders and requirements. Each report shall be signed by the Competent Authority and the manufacturer.

Appendix E

VERIFICATION OF STRESS RATIOS USING STRAIN GAUGES

1.   The stress-strain relationship for fibres is always elastic, therefore, stress ratios and strain ratios are equal.

2.   High elongation strain gauges are required.

3.   Strain gauges should be orientated in the direction of the fibres on which they are mounted (i.e. with hoop fibre on the outside of the cylinder, mount gauges in the hoop direction).

4.   Method 1 (applies to cylinders that do not use high tension winding)

(a)

Prior to auto-frettage, apply strain gauges and calibrate;

(b)

Measure strains at auto-frettage, zero after auto-frettage, working, and minimum burst pressure have been met;

(c)

Confirm that the strain at burst pressure divided by strain at working pressure meets the stress ratio requirements. For hybrid construction, the strain at working pressure, is compared with the rupture strain of cylinders reinforced with a single fibre type.

5.   Method 2 (applies to all cylinders)

(a)

At zero pressure after winding and auto-frettage, apply strain gauges and calibrate;

(b)

Measure strains at zero, working, and minimum burst pressure;

(c)

At zero pressure, after strain measurements have been taken at the working and minimum burst pressures, and with strain gauges monitored, cut the cylinder section apart so that the region containing the strain gauge is approximately five inches long. Remove the liner without damaging the composite. Measure the strains after the liner is removed.

(d)

Adjust the strain readings at zero, working, and minimum burst pressures by the amount of strain measured at zero pressure with and without the liner.

(e)

Confirm that the strain at burst pressure divided by strain at working pressure meets the stress ratio requirements. For hybrid construction, the strain at working pressure is compared with the rupture strain of cylinders reinforced with a single fibre type.

Appendix F

FRACTURE PERFORMANCE METHODS

F.1.   Determination of fatigue sensitive sites

The location and orientation of fatigue failure in cylinders shall be determined by appropriate stress analysis or by full scale fatigue tests on finished cylinders as required under the design qualification tests for each type of design. If finite element stress analysis is used, the fatigue sensitive site shall be identified based on the location and orientation of the highest tensile principal stress concentration in the cylinder wall or liner at the working pressure.

F.2.   Leak-Before-Break (LBB)

F.2.1.   Engineering critical assessment

This analysis may be carried out to establish that the finished cylinder will leak in the event of a defect in the cylinder or liner growing into a through-wall crack. A leak-before-break assessment shall be performed at the cylinder side wall. If the fatigue sensitive location is outside the side wall, a leak-before-break assessment shall also be performed at that location using a Level II approach as outlined in BS PD6493. The assessment shall include the following steps:

(a)

Measure the maximum length (i.e. major axis) of the resultant through-wall surface crack (usually elliptical in shape) from the three cylinder cycle tested under the design qualification tests (according to paragraphs A.13 and A.14 of appendix A) for each type of design. Use the longest crack length of the three cylinders in the analysis. Model a semi-elliptical through-wall crack with a major axis equal to twice the measured longest major axis and with a minor axis equal to 0.9 of wall thickness. The semi-elliptical crack shall be modelled at the locations specified in paragraph F.1. of appendix F. The crack shall be oriented such that the highest tensile principal stress shall drive the crack;

(b)

Stress levels in the wall/liner at 26 MPa obtained from the stress analysis as outlined in paragraph 6.6 of annex 3 shall be used for the assessment. Appropriate crack driving forces shall be calculated using either Section 9.2 or 9.3 of BS PD6493;

(c)

Fracture toughness of the finished cylinder or the liner from a finished cylinder, as determined at room temperature for aluminium and at –40 °C for steel, shall be established using a standardized testing technique (either ISO/DIS 12737 or ASTM 813-89 or BS 7448) in accordance with Sections 8.4 and 8.5 of BS PD6493;

(d)

Plastic collapse ratio shall be calculated in accordance with Section 9.4 of BS PD6493-91;

(e)

The modelled flaw shall be acceptable in accordance with Section 11.2 of BS PD6493-91.

F.2.2.   LBB by flawed cylinder burst

A fracture test shall be performed by the cylinder side wall. If the fatigue sensitive locations as determined in paragraph F.1. (appendix F) is outside the side wall, the fracture test shall also be performed at that location. The test procedure is as follows:

(a)

Determination of leak-before-break flaw length

The length of the LBB flaw at the fatigue sensitive site shall be twice the length of the maximum length measured of the resultant through-wall surface crack from the three cylinders cycle tested to failure under the design qualification tests for each type of design;

(b)

Cylinder flaws

For type CNG-1 designs having fatigue sensitive site in the cylindrical part in the axial direction, external flaws shall be machined longitudinally, approximately at mid-length of the cylindrical part of the cylinder. The flaws shall be located at minimum wall thickness of the midsection based on thickness measurements at four points around the cylinder. For type CNG-1 designs having fatigue sensitive site outside the cylindrical part, the LBB flaw shall be introduced at the internal surface of the cylinder along the fatigue sensitive orientation. For type CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs the LBB flaw shall be introduced in the metal liner;

For flaws to be tested by monotonic pressure, the flaw cutter shall be approximately 12,5 mm thick with an angle of 45 °C and a tip radius of 0,25 mm maximum. The cutter diameter shall be 50 mm for cylinder with outside diameter less than 140 mm, and 65 to 80 mm for cylinders with outside diameter greater than 140 mm (A standard CVN cutter is recommended).

Note: The cutter should be sharpened regularly to assure tip radius meets specification. The depth of the flaw may be adjusted to obtain a leak by monotonic hydro-pressurization. The crack shall not propagate by more than 10 per cent outside of the machined flaw measured on the external surface:

(c)

Test procedure

The test shall be performed by monotonic pressurisation or cyclic pressurisation as described below:

(i)

Monotonic pressurisation to burst

The cylinder shall be pressurised hydrostatically until pressure is released from the cylinder at the flaw location. The pressurisation shall be performed as described in paragraph A.12. (appendix A);

(ii)

Cyclic pressure

The test procedure shall be in accordance with the requirements of paragraph A.13. of appendix A.

(d)

Acceptance criteria for the flawed cylinder test

The cylinder passes the tests if the following conditions are met:

(i)

For monotonic pressurisation burst test, the failed pressure shall be equal or greater than 26 MPa;

For monotonic pressurised burst test, a total crack length measured on the external surface of 1,1 times the original machined length is allowed.

(ii)

For cycle tested cylinders, fatigue crack growth beyond the original machined flaw length is allowed. However, the failure mode must be a ‘leak’. Propagation of the flaw by fatigue should occur over at least 90 per cent of the length of the original machined flaw;

Note: If these requirements are not fulfilled (failure occurs below 36 MPa, even and if the failure is a leak), a new test can be performed with a less deep flaw. Also, if rupture type failure occurs at a pressure greater than 26 MPa and flaw depth is shallow, a new test can be performed with a deeper flaw.

F.3.   Defect size for non-destructive examination (NDE)

F.3.1.   NDE Defect size by engineering critical assessment

Calculations shall be performed in accordance with British Standard (BS) PD 6493, Section 3, using the following steps:

(a)

Fatigue cracks shall be modelled at the high stress location in the wall/liner as planar flaws;

(b)

The applied stress range at the fatigue sensitive site, due to a pressure between 2 MPa and 20 MPa, shall be established from the stress analysis as outlined in paragraph F.1. of appendix F;

(c)

The bending and membrane stress component may be used separately;

(d)

The minimum number of pressure cycles is 15 000;

(e)

The fatigue crack propagation data shall be determined in air in accordance with ASTM E647. The crack plane orientation shall be in the C-L direction (i.e., crack plane perpendicular to the circumferences and along the axis of the cylinder), as illustrated in ASTM E399. The rate shall be determined as an average of 3 specimen tests. Where specific fatigue crack propagation data are available for the material and service condition, they may be used in the assessment.

(f)

The amount of crack growth in the thickness direction and in the length direction per pressures cycle shall be determined in accordance with the steps outlined in Section 14.2 of the BS PD 6493-91 standard by integrating the relationship between the rate of fatigue crack propagation, as established in e) above, and the range of crack driving force corresponding to the applied pressure cycle;

(g)

Using the above steps, calculate the maximum allowable defect depth and length which shall not cause the failure of the cylinder during the design life due to either fatigue or rupture. The defect size for NDE shall be equal to or less than the calculated maximum allowable defect size for the design.

F.3.2.   NDE Defect size by flawed cylinder cycling

For type CNG-1, CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs, three cylinders containing artificial defects that exceed the defect length and depth detection capability of the NDE inspection method required in paragraph 6.15. of annex 3, shall be pressure cycled to failure in accordance with the test method in paragraph A.13 (appendix A). For type CNG-1 designs having a fatigue sensitive site in the cylindrical part, external flaws shall be introduced on the side wall. For type CNG-1 designs having the fatigue sensitive site outside the side wall, and for type CNG-2 and CNG-3 designs, internal flaws shall be introduced. Internal flaws may be machined prior to the heat treating and closing of the end of the cylinder.

The cylinders shall not leak or rupture in less than 15 000 cycles; The allowable defect size for NDE shall be equal to or less than the artificial flaw size at that location.

Appendix G

INSTRUCTIONS BY THE CONTAINER MANUFACTURER REGARDING HANDLING, USE AND INSPECTION OF CYLINDERS

G.1.   General

The primary function of this appendix is to provide guidance to the cylinder purchaser, distributor, installer and user for the safe use of the cylinder over its intended service life.

G.2.   Distribution

The manufacturer shall advise the purchaser that the instructions shall be supplied to all parties involved in the distribution, handling, installation and use of the cylinders; The document may be reproduced to provide sufficient copies for this purpose, however it shall be marked to provide reference to the cylinders being delivered;

G.3.   Reference to existing codes, standards and regulations

Specific instructions may be stated by reference to national or recognised codes, standards and regulations.

G.4.   Cylinder handling

Handling procedures shall be provided to ensure that the cylinders will not suffer unacceptable damage or contamination during handling.

G.5.   Installation

Installation instructions shall be provided to ensure that the cylinders will not suffer unacceptable damage during installation and during normal operation over the intended service life.

Where the mounting is specified by the manufacturer, the instructions shall contain where relevant, details such as mounting design, the use of resilient gasket materials, the correct tightening torques and avoidance of direct exposure of the cylinder to an environment of chemical and mechanical contacts.

Where the mounting is not specified by the manufacturer, the manufacturer shall draw the purchaser's attention to possible long term impacts of the vehicle mounting system, for example: vehicle body movements and cylinder expansion/contraction in the pressure and temperature conditions of service.

Where applicable, the purchaser's attention shall be drawn to the need to provide installations such that liquids or solids cannot be collected to cause cylinder material damage;

The correct pressure relieve device to be fitted shall be specified.

G.6.   Use of cylinders

The manufacturer shall draw the purchaser's attention to the intended service conditions specified by this Regulation, in particular the cylinder's allowable number of pressure cycles. its life in years, the gas quality limits and the allowable maximum pressures.

G.7.   In-service inspection

The manufacturer shall clearly specify the user's obligation to observe the required cylinder inspection requirements (e.g. reinspection interval, by authorised personnel). This information shall be in agreement with the design approval requirements.

Appendix H

ENVIRONMENTAL TEST

H.1.   Scope

The environmental test is intended to demonstrate that NGV cylinders can withstand exposure to the automotive underbody environment and occasional exposure to other fluids. This test was developed by the US automotive industry in response to cylinder failures initiated by stress corrosion cracking of the composite wrap.

H.2.   Summary of test method

A cylinder is first preconditioned by a combination of pendulum and gravel impacts to simulate potential underbody conditions. The cylinder is then subjected to a sequence of immersion in simulated road salt/acid rain, exposure to other fluids, pressure cycles and high and low temperature exposures. At the conclusion of the test sequence the cylinder will be hydraulically pressured to destruction. The remaining residual burst strength of the cylinder shall be not less than 85 per cent of the minimum design burst strength.

H.3.   Cylinder set-up and preparation

The cylinder shall be tested in a condition representative of installed geometry including coating (if applicable), brackets and gaskets, and pressure fittings using the same sealing configuration (i.e. O-rings) as that used in service. Brackets may be painted or coated prior to installation in the immersion test if they are painted or coated prior to vehicle installation.

Cylinders will be tested horizontally and nominally divided along their horizontal centreline into ‘upper’ and ‘lower’ sections. The lower section of the cylinder will be alternatively immersed in road salt/acid rain environment and in heated or cooled air.

The upper section will be divided into 5 distinct areas and marked for preconditioning and fluid exposure. The areas will be nominally 100 mm in diameter. The areas shall not overlap on the cylinder surface. While convenient for testing, the areas need not be oriented along a single line, but must not overlap the immersed section of the cylinder.

Although preconditioning and fluid exposure is performed on the cylindrical section of the cylinder, all of the cylinder, including the domed sections, should be as resistant to the exposure environments as are the exposed areas.

Figure H.1

Cylinder orientation and layout of exposure areas

Image 57

Other fluid exposure areas

Immersion area (lower third)

H.4.   Preconditioning apparatus

The following apparatus are needed for preconditioning the test cylinder by pendulum and gravel impact.

(a)

Pendulum impact

The impact body shall be of steel and have the shape of a pyramid with equilateral triangle faces and a square base, the summit and the edges being rounded to a radius of 3 mm. The centre of percussion of the pendulum shall coincide with the centre of gravity of the pyramid; its distance from the axis of rotation of the pendulum shall be 1 m. The total mass of the pendulum referred to its centre of percussion shall be 15 kg. The energy of the pendulum at the moment of impact shall be not less than 30 Nm and as close to that value as possible.

During pendulum impact, the cylinder shall be held in position by the end bosses or by the intended mounting brackets.

(b)

Gravel impact

Machine constructed according to the design specifications shown in figure H.2.This procedure for operation of the equipment shall follow that described in ASTM D3170, Standard Test Method for Chip Resistance of Coatings with the exception that the cylinder may be at ambient temperature during gravel impact;

(c)

Gravel

Alluvial road gravel passing through a 16 mm space screen but retained on a 9,5 mm space screen. Each application is to consist of 550 ml of graded gravel (approx. 250 to 300 stones).

Figure H.2

Gravel impact test

Image 58

Funnel

Fuel container

Air iniet

50 mm Pipe

Sizing screen

Cabinet approximately 500 mm wide

H.5.   Exposure environments

(a)

Immersion environment

At the specified stage in the test sequence (table 1) the cylinder will be oriented horizontally with the lower third of the cylinder diameter immersed in a simulated acid rain/road salt water solution. The solution will consist of the following compounds:

Deionized water;

Sodium chloride:

2,5 per cent by weight ±0,1 per cent;

Calcium chloride:

2,5 per cent by weight ±0,1 per cent;

Sulfuric acid:

Sufficient to achieve a solution pH of 4,0 ± 0,2;

Solution level and pH are to be adjusted prior to each test step which uses this liquid.

The temperature of the bath shall be 21 ± 5 °C. During immersion, the unsubmerged section of the cylinder shall be in ambient air.

b)

Other fluid exposure

At the appropriate stage in test sequence (table 1) each marked area is to be exposed to one of five solutions for 30 minutes. The same environment shall be used for each location throughout the test. The solutions are:

Sulfuric acid:

19 per cent solution by volume in water;

Sodium hydroxide:

25 per cent solution by weight in water;

Methanol/gasoline:

30/70 per cent concentrations;

Ammonium nitrate:

28 per cent by weight in water;

Windshield washer fluid.

 

When exposed, the test sample will be oriented with the exposure area uppermost. A pad of glass wool one layer thick (approximately 0,5 mm) and trimmed to the appropriate dimensions is to be placed on the exposure area. Using a pipet, apply 5 ml of the test fluid to the exposure area. Remove the gauze pad after pressurization of the cylinder for 30 minutes.

H.6.   Test conditions

(a)

Pressure cycle

As defined in the test sequence, cylinder shall be hydraulically pressure cycled between not more than 2 MPa and not less than 26 MPa. The total cycle shall be not less than 66 seconds and will include a 60 second minimum hold at 26 MPa. The nominal cycle process will be:

Ramp up from ≤ 2MPa to ≥ 26 MPa;

Hold at ≥ 26 MPa for 60 seconds minimum;

Ramp down from ≥ 26 MPa to ≤ 2 MPa;

Total minimum cycle time to be 66 seconds.

(b)

Pressure during other fluid exposure

Following application of the other fluids, the cylinder shall be pressured to not less than 26 MPa for a minimum of 30 minutes;

(c)

High and low temperature exposure

As defined in the test sequence, the entire cylinder shall be exposed to high or low temperature air in contact with external surface. The low temperature air shall be –40 °C or lower and the high temperature air shall be 82 °C ± 5 °C. For the low temperature exposure, the fluid temperature of type CNG-1 cylinders shall be monitored using a thermocouple installed within the cylinder to ensure it remains at –40 °C or lower.

H.7.   Test procedure

(a)

Preconditioning of the cylinder

Each of the five areas marked for other fluid exposure an the upper section of the cylinder shall be preconditioned by a single impact of the pendulum body summit at their geometric centre. Following impact, the five areas shall be further conditioned by a gravel impact application.

The central section of the bottom portion of the cylinder that will be submerged shall be preconditioned by an impact of the pendulum body summit at three locations spaced approximately 150 mm apart.

Following impact, the same central section that was impacted shall be further conditioned by a gravel impact application.

The cylinder shall be unpressured during preconditioning.

(b)

Test sequence and cycles

The sequence of the environment exposure, pressure cycles, and temperature to be used are defined in table 1.

The cylinder surface is not to be washed or wiped between stages.

H.8.   Acceptable results

Following the above test sequence, the cylinder shall be hydraulically tested to destruction in accordance with the procedure in paragraph A.12. The burst pressure of the cylinder shall be not less than 85 per cent of the minimum design burst pressure.

Table H.1

Test conditions and sequence

Test steps

Exposure environments

Number of pressure cycles

Temperature

1

Other fluids

Ambient

2

Immersion

1 875

Ambient

3

Air

1 875

High

4

Other fluids

Ambient

5

Immersion

1 875

Ambient

6

Air

3 750

Low

7

Other fluids

Ambient

8

Immersion

1 875

Ambient

9

Air

1 875

High

10

Other fluids

Ambient

11

Immersion

1 875

Ambient


ANNEX 4A

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE AUTOMATIC VALVE, NON-RETURN VALVE, THE PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE, PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE AND THE EXCESS FLOW VALVE

1.   The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the automatic valve, the non-return valve, the pressure relief valve, the pressure relief device and the excess flow valve.

2.   THE AUTOMATIC VALVE

2.1.   The materials constituting the automatic valve which are in contact with the CNG when operating, shall be compatible with the test CNG. In order to verify this compatibility the procedure described in annex 5D shall be used.

2.2.   Operating specifications

2.2.1.   The automatic valve shall be so designed as to withstand a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) without leakage and deformation.

2.2.2.   The automatic valve shall be so designed as to be leak-proof at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) (see annex 5B).

2.2.3.   The automatic valve, being in the normal position of use specified by the manufacturer, is submitted to 20 000 operations; then it is deactivated. The automatic valve shall remain leak-proof at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) (see annex 5B).

2.2.4.   The automatic valve shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

2.3.   The electrical system, if existing, shall be isolated from the body of the automatic valve. Isolation resistance shall be > 10 MΩ.

2.4.   The automatic valve activated by an electric current shall be in a ‘closed’ position when the current is switched off.

2.5.   The automatic valve has to comply with the test procedures for the Class component determined according to the scheme in Figure 1-1 of paragraph 2 of this Regulation.

3.   THE NON-RETURN VALVE

3.1.   The materials constituting the non-return valve which are in contact with the CNG when operating, shall be compatible with the test CNG. In order to verify this compatibility the procedure described in annex 5D shall be used.

3.2.   Operating specifications

3.2.1.   The non-return valve shall be so designed as to withstand a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) without leakage and deformation.

3.2.2.   The non-return valve shall be so designed as to be leak-proof (external) at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) (see annex 5B).

3.2.3.   The non-return valve, being in the normal position of use specified by the manufacturer, is submitted to 20 000 operations; then it is deactivated. The non-return valve shall remain leak-proof (external) at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) (see annex 5B).

3.2.4.   The non-return valve shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

3.3.   The non-return valve has to comply with the test procedures for the Class component determined according to the scheme in Figure 1-1 of paragraph 2 of this Regulation.

4.   THE PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE AND PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE

4.1.   The materials constituting the pressure relief valve and pressure relief device which are in contact with the CNG when operating, shall be compatible with the test CNG. In order to verify this compatibility, the procedure described in annex 5D shall be used.

4.2.   Operating specifications

4.2.1.   The pressure relief valve and pressure relief device in Class 0 shall be so designed as to withstand a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa).

4.2.2.   The pressure relief valve and pressure relief device of Class 1 shall be so designed as to be leak-proof at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) with the outlet closed off (see annex 5B).

4.2.3.   The pressure relief valve of Class 1 and Class 2 shall be so designed as to be leak-proof at twice the working pressure with the outlets closed off.

4.2.4.   The pressure relief device shall be so designed to open the fuse at a temperature of 110 ± 10 °C.

4.2.5.   The pressure relief valve of Class 0 shall be so designed to operate at temperatures from –40 °C to 85 °C.

4.3.   The pressure relief valve and pressure relief device have to comply with the test procedures for the Class component determined according to the scheme in Figure 1-1 of paragraph 2 of this Regulation.

5.   THE EXCESS FLOW VALVE

5.1.   The materials constituting the excess flow valve which are in contact with the CNG when operating, shall be compatible with the test CNG. In order to verify this compatibility, the procedure described in annex 5D shall be used.

5.2.   Operating specifications

5.2.1.   The excess flow valve, if it is not integrated in the cylinder, shall be so designed as to withstand a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa).

5.2.2.   The excess flow valve shall be so designed as to be leak-proof at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa).

5.2.3.   The excess flow valve shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

5.3.   The excess flow valve shall be mounted inside the container.

5.4.   The excess flow valve shall be designed with a bypass to allow for equalization of pressures.

5.5.   The excess flow valve shall cut-off at a pressure difference over the valve of 650 kPa.

5.6.   When the excess flow valve is at cut-off position, the by-pass flow through the valve shall not exceed 0,05 normal m3/min at a differential pressure of 10 000 kPa.

5.7.   The device have to comply with the test procedures for the Class components, specified in the scheme in Figure 1-1 of paragraph 2 of this Regulation, except overpressure, external leakage, resistance to dry heat test, ozone ageing.

6.   THE MANUAL VALVE

6.1.   The manual valve device in Class 0 shall be designed to withstand a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure.

6.2.   The manual valve device in Class 0 shall be designed to operate at a temperature from –40 °C to 85 °C.


ANNEX 4B

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF FLEXIBLE FUEL LINES OR HOSES

SCOPE

The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of flexible hoses for use with CNG.

This annex covers three types of flexible hoses:

(i)

High pressure hoses (Class 0),

(ii)

Medium pressure hoses (Class 1),

(iii)

Low pressure hoses (Class 2)

1.   HIGH PRESSURE HOSES, CLASS 0 CLASSIFICATION

1.1.   General specifications

1.1.1.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand a maximum working pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa).

1.1.2.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

1.1.3.   The inside diameter shall be in compliance with table 1 of Standard ISO 1307.

1.2.   Hose construction

1.2.1.   The hose must embody a smooth-bore tube and a cover of suitable synthetic material, reinforced with one or more interlayer(s).

1.2.2.   The reinforcing interlayer(s) has (have) to be protected by a cover against corrosion.

If for the reinforcing interlayer(s) corrosion-resistant-material is used (i.e. stainless-steel) a cover is not required.

1.2.3.   The lining and the cover must be smooth and free from pores, holes and strange elements.

An intentionally provided puncture in the cover shall not be considered as an imperfection.

1.2.4.   The cover has to be intentionally perforated to avoid the forming of bubbles.

1.2.5.   When the cover is punctured and the interlayer is made of a non-corrosion-resistant material, the interlayer has to be protected against corrosion.

1.3.   Specifications and tests for the lining

Tensile strength and elongation for rubber material and for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

1.3.1.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 20 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

1.3.1.2.    Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 30 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

1.3.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 1.3.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Tensile strength and elongation specific for thermoplastic material.

1.3.2.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA.

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min.

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirements:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa.

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

1.3.2.2.   Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane.

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817).

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent.

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent.

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent.

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

1.3.2.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 1.3.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

1.4.   Specifications and test-method for the cover

Tensile strength and elongation for rubber material and for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

1.4.1.1.    Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

1.4.1.2.    Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc.to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 30 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 35 per cent

1.4.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 1.4.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Tensile strength and elongation specific for thermoplastic material.

1.4.2.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA.

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min.

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirements:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa.

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

1.4.2.2.   Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane.

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817).

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent.

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent.

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent.

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

1.4.2.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 1.4.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 20 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 50 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Resistance to ozone

1.4.3.1.   The test has to be performed in compliance with Standard ISO 1431/1.

1.4.3.2.   The test-pieces, which have to be stretched to an elongation of 20 per cent shall have to be exposed to air of 40 °C with an ozone-concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 120 hours.

1.4.3.3.   No cracking of the test pieces is allowed.

1.5.   Specifications for uncoupled hose

Gas-tightness (permeability)

1.5.1.1.   A hose at a free length of 1 m has to be connected to a container filled with liquid propane, having a temperature of 23° ± 2 °C.

1.5.1.2.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 4080.

1.5.1.3.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 per metre of hose per 24 h.

Resistance at low temperature

1.5.2.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 4672-1978, method B.

Test-temperature:

–40  °C ± 3 °C

or

–20  °C ± 3 °C, if applicable.

1.5.2.3.   No cracking or rupture is allowed.

Bending test

1.5.3.1.   An empty hose, at a length of approximately 3,5 m must be able to withstand 3 000 times the hereafter prescribed alternating-bending-test without breaking. After the test the hose must be capable of withstanding the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 1.5.4.2. The test shall be performed on both new hose and after ageing according to ISO 188 as prescribed in paragraph 1.4.2.3. and subsequently to ISO 1817 as prescribed in paragraph 1.4.2.2.

Figure 1

(example only)

Image 59

mass

propulsion mechanism

Hose inside diameter

[mm]

Bending radius

[mm]

(Figure 1)

Distance between centres [mm]

(Figure 1)

Vertical

b

Horizontal

a

up to 13

102

241

102

13 to 16

153

356

153

from 16 to 20

178

419

178

1.5.3.3.   The testing-machine (Figure 1) shall consist of a steel frame, provided with two wooden wheels, with a rim-width of c.a. 130 mm.

The circumference of the wheels must be grooved for the guidance of the hose.

The radius of the wheels, measured to the bottom of the groove, must be as indicated in paragraph 1.5.3.2.

The longitudinal median planes of both wheels must be in the same vertical plane and the distance between the wheel-centres must be in accordance with paragraph 1.5.3.2.

Each wheel must be able to rotate freely round its pivot-centre.

A propulsion-mechanism pulls the hose over the wheels at a speed of four complete motions per minute.

1.5.3.4.   The hose shall be S-shape-like installed over the wheels (see Figure 1).

The end, that runs over the upper wheel shall be furnished with a sufficient mass as to achieve a complete snuggling of the hose against the wheels. The part that runs over the lower wheel is attached to the propulsion-mechanism.

The mechanism must be so adjusted, that the hose travels a total distance of 1,2 m in both directions.

Hydraulic-test-pressure and appointment of the minimum burst-pressure

1.5.4.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 1402.

1.5.4.2.   The test-pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) shall be applied during 10 minutes, without any leakage.

1.5.4.3.   The burst pressure shall not be less than 45 MPa.

1.6.   Couplings

1.6.1.   The couplings shall be made from steel or brass and the surface must be corrosion-resistant.

The couplings must be of the crimp-fitting type.

1.6.2.1.   The swivel-nut must be provided with U.N.F.-thread.

1.6.2.2.   The sealing cone of swivel-nut type must be of the type with a half vertical angle of 45°.

1.6.2.3.   The couplings can be made as swivel-nut type or as quick-connector type.

1.6.2.4.   It shall be impossible to disconnect the quick-connector type without specific measures or the use of dedicated tools.

1.7.   Assembly of hose and couplings

1.7.1.   The construction of the couplings must be such, that it is not necessary to peel the cover unless the reinforcement of the hose consists of corrosion-resistant material.

The hose assembly has to be subjected to an impulse test in compliance with Standard ISO 1436.

1.7.2.1.   The test has to be completed with circulating oil having a temperature of 93 °C, and a minimum pressure of 26 MPa.

1.7.2.2.   The hose has to be subjected to 150 000 impulses.

1.7.2.3.   After the impulse-test the hose has to withstand the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 1.5.4.2.

Gas-tightness

1.7.3.1.   The hose assembly (hose with couplings) has to withstand during five minutes a gas pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) without any leakage.

1.8.   Markings

Every hose must bear, at intervals of not greater than 0,5 m, the following clearly legible and indelible identification markings consisting of characters, figures or symbols.

1.8.1.1.   The trade name or mark of the manufacturer.

1.8.1.2.   The year and month of fabrication.

1.8.1.3.   The size and type-marking.

1.8.1.4.   The identification-marking ‘CNG Class 0’.

1.8.2.   Every coupling shall bear the trade name or mark of the assembling manufacturer.

2.   MEDIUM PRESSURE HOSES, CLASS 1 CLASSIFICATION

2.1.   General specifications

2.1.1.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand a maximum working pressure of 3 MPa.

2.1.2.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

2.1.3.   The inside diameter shall be in compliance with table 1 of Standard ISO 1307.

2.2.   Hose construction

2.2.1.   The hose must embody a smooth-bore tube and a cover of suitable synthetic material, reinforced with one or more interlayer(s).

2.2.2.   The reinforcing interlayer(s) has (have) to be protected by a cover against corrosion.

If for the reinforcing interlayer(s) corrosion-resistant-material is used (i.e. stainless-steel) a cover is not required.

2.2.3.   The lining and the cover must be smooth and free from pores, holes and strange elements.

An intentionally provided puncture in the cover shall not be considered as an imperfection.

2.3.   Specifications and tests for the lining

Tensile strength and elongation for rubber material and for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

2.3.1.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

2.3.1.2.   Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 30 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

2.3.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 2.3.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Tensile strength and elongation specific for thermoplastic material.

2.3.2.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA.

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min.

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirement:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa.

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

2.3.2.2.   Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane.

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817).

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent.

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent.

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent.

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

2.3.2.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 2.3.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

2.4.   Specifications and test-method for the cover

Tensile strength and elongation for rubber material and for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

2.4.1.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37. Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

2.4.1.2.   Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 30 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 35 per cent

2.4.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C)

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 2.4.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Tensile strength and elongation specific for thermoplastic material.

2.4.2.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA.

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min.

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirements:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa.

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

2.4.2.2.   Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane.

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817).

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent.

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent.

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent.

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

2.4.2.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 2.4.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 20 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 50 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Resistance to ozone

2.4.3.1.   The test has to be performed in compliance with Standard ISO 1431/1.

2.4.3.2.   The test-pieces, which have to be stretched to an elongation of 20 per cent shall have to be exposed to air of 40 °C with an ozone-concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 120 hours.

2.4.3.3.   No cracking of the test pieces is allowed.

2.5.   Specifications for uncoupled hose

Gas-tightness (permeability)

2.5.1.1.   A hose at a free length of 1 m has to be connected to a container filled with liquid propane, having a temperature of 23° ± 2 °C.

2.5.1.2.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 4080.

2.5.1.3.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 per metre of hose per 24 h.

Resistance at low temperature

2.5.2.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 4672-1978, method B.

Test-temperature:

–40  °C ± 3 °C

or

–20  °C ± 3 °C, if applicable.

2.5.2.3.   No cracking or rupture is allowed.

Bending test

2.5.3.1.   An empty hose, at a length of approximately 3,5 m must be able to withstand 3 000 times the hereafter prescribed alternating-bending-test without breaking. After the test the hose must be capable of withstanding the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 2.5.4.2. The test shall be performed on both new hose and after ageing according to ISO 188 as prescribed in paragraph 2.4.2.3. and subsequently to ISO 1817 as prescribed in paragraph 2.4.2.2.

Figure 2

(example only)

Image 60

mass

propulsion mechanism

Hose inside diameter

[mm]

Bending radius

[mm]

(Figure 2)

Distance between centres [mm]

(Figure 2)

Vertical

b

Horizontal

a

up to 13

102

241

102

13 to 16

153

356

153

from 16 to 20

178

419

178

2.5.3.3.   The testing-machine (Figure 2) shall consist of a steel frame, provided with two wooden wheels, with a rim-width of c.a. 130 mm.

The circumference of the wheels must be grooved for the guidance of the hose.

The radius of the wheels, measured to the bottom of the groove, must be as indicated in paragraph 2.5.3.2.

The longitudinal median planes of both wheels must be in the same vertical plane and the distance between the wheel-centres must be in accordance with paragraph 2.5.3.2.

Each wheel must be able to rotate freely round its pivot-centre.

A propulsion-mechanism pulls the hose over the wheels at a speed of four complete motions per minute.

2.5.3.4.   The hose shall be S-shape-like installed over the wheels (see Figure 2).

The end, that runs over the upper wheel shall be furnished with a sufficient mass as to achieve a complete snuggling of the hose against the wheels. The part that runs over the lower wheel is attached to the propulsion mechanism.

The mechanism must be so adjusted, that the hose travels a total distance of 1,2 m in both directions.

Hydraulic-test-pressure

2.5.4.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 1402.

2.5.4.2.   The test-pressure of 3 MPa shall be applied during 10 minutes, without any leakage.

2.6.   Couplings

2.6.1.   If a coupling is mounted on the hose the following conditions have to be met:

2.6.2.   The couplings shall be made from steel or brass and the surface must be corrosion-resistant.

2.6.3.   The couplings must be of the crimp-fitting type.

2.6.4.   The couplings can be made as swivel-nut type or as quick-connector type.

2.6.5.   It shall be impossible to disconnect the quick-connector type without specific measures or the use of dedicated tools.

2.7.   Assembly of hose and couplings

2.7.1.   The construction of the couplings must be such, that it is not necessary to peel the cover unless the reinforcement of the hose consists of corrosion-resistant material.

The hose assembly has to be subjected to an impulse test in compliance with Standard ISO 1436.

2.7.2.1.   The test has to be completed with circulating oil having a temperature of 93 °C, and a minimum pressure of 1,5 times the maximum working pressure.

2.7.2.2.   The hose has to be subjected to 150 000 impulses.

2.7.2.3.   After the impulse-test the hose has to withstand the test-pressure as mentioned in paragraph 2.5.4.2.

Gas-tightness

2.7.3.1.   The hose assembly (hose with couplings) has to withstand during five minutes a gas pressure of 3 MPa without any leakage.

2.8.   Markings

Every hose must bear, at intervals of not greater than 0,5 m, the following clearly legible and indelible identification markings consisting of characters, figures or symbols.

2.8.1.1.   The trade name or mark of the manufacturer.

2.8.1.2.   The year and month of fabrication.

2.8.1.3.   The size and type marking.

2.8.1.4.   The identification-marking ‘CNG Class 1’.

2.8.2.   Every coupling shall bear the trade name or mark of the assembling manufacturer.

3.   LOW PRESSURE HOSES, CLASS 2 CLASSIFICATION

3.1.   General specifications

3.1.1.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand a maximum working pressure of 450 kPa.

3.1.2.   The hose shall be so designed as to withstand temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

3.1.3.   The inside diameter shall be in compliance with table 1 of Standard ISO 1307.

3.2.   (Not allocated)

3.3.   Specifications and tests for the lining

Tensile strength and elongation for rubber material and for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

3.3.1.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37

Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

3.3.1.2.    Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 25 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 30 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

3.3.1.3.    Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10° C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 3.3.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Tensile strength and elongation specific for thermoplastic material.

3.3.2.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA.

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min.

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirement:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa.

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

3.3.2.2.   Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane.

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817).

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent.

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent.

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent.

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

3.3.2.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10° C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 3.3.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

3.4.   Specifications and test-method for the cover

Tensile strength and elongation for rubber material and for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)

3.4.1.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 37

Tensile strength not less than 10 MPa and elongation at break not less than 250 per cent.

3.4.1.2.    Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc. to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 30 per cent

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 35 per cent

3.4.1.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10° C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 3.4.1.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 35 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 25 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Tensile strength and elongation specific for thermoplastic material.

3.4.2.1.   Tensile strength and elongation at break according to ISO 527-2 with the following conditions:

(i)

specimen type: type 1 BA.

(ii)

tensile speed: 20 mm/min.

The material has to be conditioned for at least 21 days at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity prior to testing.

Requirements:

(i)

tensile strength not less than 20 MPa.

(ii)

elongation at break not less than 100 per cent.

3.4.2.2.   Resistance to n-hexane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-hexane.

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance according to ISO 1817).

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in volume 2 per cent.

(ii)

maximum change in tensile strength 10 per cent.

(iii)

maximum change in elongation at break 10 per cent.

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

3.4.2.3.   Resistance to ageing according to ISO 188 with the following conditions:

(i)

temperature: 115 °C (test temperature = maximum operating temperature minus 10 °C).

(ii)

exposure period: 24 and 336 hours.

After ageing the specimens have to be conditioned at 23 °C and 50 per cent relative humidity for at least 21 days prior to carrying out the tensile test according to paragraph 3.4.2.1.

Requirements:

(i)

maximum change in tensile strength 20 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the tensile strength of the 24 hours aged material.

(ii)

maximum change in elongation at break 50 per cent after 336 hours ageing compared to the elongation at break of the 24 hours aged material.

Resistance to ozone

3.4.3.1.   The test has to be performed in compliance with Standard ISO 1431/1.

3.4.3.2.   The test-pieces, which have to be stretched to an elongation of 20 per cent shall have to be exposed to air of 40 °C and a relative humidity of 50 per cent ±10 per cent with an ozone concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 120 hours.

3.4.3.3.   No cracking of the test pieces is allowed.

3.5.   Specifications for uncoupled hose

Gas-tightness (permeability)

3.5.1.1.   A hose at a free length of 1 m has to be connected to a container filled with liquid propane, having a temperature of 23° ± 2 °C.

3.5.1.2.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 4080.

3.5.1.3.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 per metre of hose per 24 h.

Resistance at low temperature

3.5.2.1.   The test has to be carried out in compliance with the method described in Standard ISO 4672, method B.

Test-temperature:

–40  °C ± 3 °C

or

–20  °C ± 3 °C, if applicable.

3.5.2.3.   No cracking or rupture is allowed.

Resistance at high temperature

3.5.3.1.   A piece of hose, pressurized at 450 kPa, with a minimal length of 0,5 m must be put in an oven at a temperature of 120 °C ± 2 °C during 24 hours. The test shall be performed on both new hose and after ageing according to ISO 188 as prescribed in paragraph 3.4.2.3. and subsequently to ISO 1817 as prescribed in paragraph 3.4.2.2.

3.5.3.2.   The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 per metre of hose per 24 h.

3.5.3.3.   After the test the hose shall withstand the test pressure of 50 kPa during 10 minutes. The leakage through the wall of the hose shall not exceed 95 cm3 per metre of hose per 24 h.

Bending test

3.5.4.1.   An empty hose, at a length of approximately 3,5 m must be able to withstand 3 000 times the hereafter prescribed alternating-bending-test without breaking.

Figure 3

(example only)

Image 61

mass

propulsion mechanism

(a = 102 mm; b = 241 mm)

The testing machine (Figure 3) shall consist of a steel frame, provided with two wooden wheels, with a rim width of approx. 130 mm.

The circumference of the wheels must be grooved for the guidance of the hose.

The radius of the wheels, measured to the bottom of the groove, must be 102 mm.

The longitudinal median planes of both wheels must be in the same vertical plane. The distance between the wheel-centres must be vertical 241 mm and horizontal 102 mm.

Each wheel must be able to rotate freely round its pivot-centre.

A propulsion-mechanism pulls the hose over the wheels at a speed of four complete motions per minute.

3.5.4.3.   The hose shall be S-shape-like installed over the wheels (see Figure 3).

The end, that runs over the upper wheel, shall be furnished with a sufficient mass as to achieve a complete snuggling of the hose against the wheels. The part that runs over the lower wheel is attached to the propulsion mechanism.

The mechanism must be so adjusted, that the hose travels a total distance of 1,2 m in both directions.

3.6.   Markings

Every hose must bear, at intervals of not greater than 0.5 m, the following clearly legible and indelible identification markings consisting of characters, figures or symbols.

3.6.1.1.   The trade name or mark of the manufacturer.

3.6.1.2.   The year and month of fabrication.

3.6.1.3.   The size and type marking.

3.6.1.4.   The identification marking ‘CNG Class 2’.

3.6.2.   Every coupling shall bear the trade name or mark of the assembling manufacturer.


ANNEX 4C

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE CNG FILTER

1.   The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the CNG filter.

Operating conditions

2.1.   The CNG filter shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

CNG filter shall be Classified with regard to the maximum working pressure (see paragraph 2 of this Regulation):

2.2.1.   Class 0: The CNG filter shall be so designed to withstand a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa).

2.2.2.   Class 1 and Class 2: The CNG filter shall be so designed to withstand a pressure twice the working pressure.

2.2.3.   Class 3: the CNG filter shall be so designed to withstand a pressure twice the relief pressure of the pressure relief valve on which it is subject.

2.3.   The materials used in the CNG filter which are in contact with CNG when operating, shall be compatible with this gas (see annex 5D).

2.4.   The component has to comply with the test procedures for Class components according to the scheme in Figure 1-1 of paragraph 2 of this Regulation.


ANNEX 4D

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE PRESSURE REGULATOR

1.   The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the pressure regulator.

2.   PRESSURE REGULATOR

2.1.   The material constituting the regulator which is in contact with the compressed natural gas when operating shall be compatible with the test CNG. In order to verify this compatibility, the procedure in annex 5D shall be used.

2.2.   The materials constituting the regulator which are in contact with the heat exchange medium of the regulator when operating, shall be compatible with that fluid.

2.3.   The component shall comply with the test procedures provided for in Class 0 for the parts subject to high pressure and Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 for the parts subject to medium and low pressure.

3.   CLASSIFICATION AND TEST PRESSURES

The part of the pressure regulator which is in contact with the pressure of the container is regarded as Class 0.

3.1.1.   The Class 0 part of the pressure regulator shall be leak-proof (see annex 5B) at a pressure up to 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) with the outlet(s) of that part closed off.

3.1.2.   The Class 0 part of the pressure regulator shall withstand a pressure up to 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa).

3.1.3.   The Class 1 and Class 2 part of the pressure regulator shall be leak-proof (see annex 5B) at a pressure up to twice the working pressure.

3.1.4.   The Class 1 and Class 2 part of the pressure regulator shall withstand a pressure up to twice the working pressure.

3.1.5.   The Class 3 part of the pressure regulator shall withstand a pressure up to twice the relief pressure of the pressure relief valve, on which it is subject.

3.2.   The pressure regulator shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.


ANNEX 4E

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE SENSORS

1.   The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the pressure and temperature sensors.

2.   PRESSURE AND TEMPERATURE SENSORS

2.1.   The material constituting the pressure and temperature sensors which is in contact with the CNG when operating shall be compatible with the test CNG. In order to verify this compatibility, the procedure in annex 5D shall be used.

2.2.   The pressure and temperature sensors are Classified in a Class according to the scheme 1-1 in paragraph 2 of this Regulation.

3.   CLASSIFICATION AND TEST PRESSURES

The part of the pressure and temperature sensors which is in contact with the pressure of the container is regarded as Class 0.

3.1.1.   The Class 0 part of the pressure and temperature sensors shall be leak-proof at a pressure up to 1.5 times the working pressure (MPa) (see annex 5B).

3.1.2.   The Class 0 part of the pressure and temperature sensors shall withstand a pressure up to 1.5 times the working pressure (MPa).

3.1.3.   The Class 1 and Class 2 part of the pressure and temperature sensors shall be leak-proof at a pressure up to twice the working pressure (see annex 5B).

3.1.4.   The Class 1 and Class 2 part of the pressure and temperature sensors shall withstand a pressure up to twice the working pressure.

3.1.5.   The Class 3 part of the pressure and temperature sensors shall withstand a pressure up to twice the relief pressure of the pressure relief valve, on which it is subject.

3.2.   The pressure and temperature sensors shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

3.3.   The electrical system, if existing, shall be isolated from the body of the pressure and temperature sensors. Isolation resistance shall be > 10 MΩ.


ANNEX 4F

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE FILLING UNIT

1.   SCOPE

The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the filling unit.

2.   THE FILLING UNIT

2.1.   The material constituting the filling unit which is in contact with the CNG when the device is in service shall be compatible with the CNG. In order to verify this compatibility, the procedure of annex 5D shall be used.

2.2.   The filling unit shall conform to the requirements of Class 0 components.

3.   TEST PRESSURES

The filling unit shall be considered as component of Class 0.

3.1.1.   The filling unit shall be free from leakage at a pressure of 1,5 times the working pressure (MPa) (see annex 5B).

3.1.2.   The filling unit shall withstand a pressure of 33 MPa.

3.2.   The filling unit shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.


ANNEX 4G

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF GAS FLOW ADJUSTER AND GAS/AIR MIXER OR GAS INJECTOR

1.   The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the gas flow adjuster and gas/air mixer or gas injector.

2.   GAS/AIR MIXER OR GAS INJECTOR

2.1.   The material constituting the gas/air mixer or gas injector which is in contact with CNG shall be compatible with the CNG. In order to verify this compatibility, the procedure specified in annex 5D shall be used.

2.2.   The gas/air mixer or gas injector shall conform to the requirements of Class 1 or 2 components, according to their Classification.

Test pressures

The gas/air mixer or gas injector of Class 2 shall withstand a pressure twice the working pressure.

2.3.1.1.   The gas/air mixer or gas injector of Class 2 shall be free from leakage at a pressure twice the working pressure.

2.3.2.   The gas/air mixer or gas injector of Class 1 and Class 2 shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

2.4.   Electrical operated components containing CNG shall comply with the following:

(i)

They shall have a separate ground connection;

(ii)

The electrical system of the component shall be isolated from the body;

(iii)

The gas injector shall be in closed position when the electric current is switched off.

3.   GAS FLOW ADJUSTER

3.1.   The material constituting the gas flow adjuster which is in contact with the CNG shall be compatible with the CNG. In order to verify this compatibility the procedure specified in annex 5D has to be used.

3.2.   The gas flow adjuster shall conform to requirements of Class 1 or 2 components, according to their Classification.

Test pressures

The gas flow adjuster of Class 2 shall withstand a pressure twice the working pressure.

3.3.1.1.   The gas flow adjuster of Class 2 shall be free from leakage at a pressure twice the working pressure.

3.3.2.   The gas flow adjuster of Class 1 and Class 2 shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.

3.4.   Electrical operated components containing CNG shall comply with the following:

(i)

They shall have a separate ground connection;

(ii)

The electrical system of the component shall be isolated from the body.


ANNEX 4H

PROVISIONS REGARDING THE APPROVAL OF THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT

1.   The purpose of this annex is to determine the provisions regarding the approval of the electronic control unit.

2.   ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT

2.1.   The electronic control unit can be any device which controls the CNG demand of the engine and establishes the cut-off of the automatic valve in case of a broken fuel supply pipe or in case of stalling of the engine, or during a crash.

2.2.   The switching off delay of the automatic valve after stalling of the engine may not be more than 5 seconds.

2.3.   The device may be equipped with an automatic ignition advance timing adjuster integrated in the electronic module or separated.

2.4.   The device may be integrated with dummy injectors to permit a correct functioning of the gasoline electronic control unit during CNG operation.

2.5.   The electronic control unit shall be so designed to operate at temperatures as specified in annex 5O.


ANNEX 5

TEST PROCEDURES

1.   CLASSIFICATION

1.1.   CNG components for use in vehicles shall be Classified with regard to the maximum working pressure and function, according to paragraph 2 of this Regulation.

1.2.   The Classification of the components determines the tests which have to be performed for type-approval of the components or parts of the components.

2.   APPLICABLE TEST PROCEDURES

In table 5.1 below the applicable test procedures dependent on the classification are shown.

Table 5.1

Test

Class 0

Class 1

Class 2

Class 3

Class 4

Paragraph

Overpressure or strength

X

X

X

X

O

5A

External leakage

X

X

X

X

O

5B

Internal leakage

A

A

A

A

O

5C

Durability tests

A

A

A

A

O

5L

CNG compatibility

A

A

A

A

A

5D

Corrosion resistance

X

X

X

X

X

5E

Resistance to dry heat

A

A

A

A

A

5F

Ozone ageing

A

A

A

A

A

5G

Burst/destructive tests

X

O

O

O

O

5M

Temperature cycle

A

A

A

A

O

5H

Pressure cycle

X

O

O

O

O

5I

Vibration resistance

A

A

A

A

O

5N

Operating temperatures

X

X

X

X

X

5O

X

=

Applicable

O

=

Not applicable

A

=

As applicable

Remarks:

(a)

Internal leakage: Applicable if the Class of the component consists of internal valve seats that are normally closed during engine ‘OFF’ condition.

(b)

Durability test: Applicable if the Class of the component consists of integral parts that will move repeatedly during engine operation.

(c)

CNG compatibility, resistance to dry heat, ozone ageing: Applicable if the class of the component consists of synthetic/non-metallic parts.

(d)

Temperature cyclic test: Applicable if the class of the component consists of synthetic/non-metallic parts.

(e)

Vibration resistance test: Applicable if the Class of the component consists of integral parts that will move repeatedly during engine operation.

The materials used for the components shall have written specifications that fulfil at least or exceed the (test) requirements laid down in this annex with respect to:

(i)

temperature

(ii)

pressure

(iii)

CNG compatibility

(iv)

durability

3.   GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1.   Leakage tests shall have to be conducted with pressurized gas like air or nitrogen.

3.2.   Water or another fluid may be used to obtain the required pressure for the hydrostatic strength test.

3.3.   The test period for leakage- and hydrostatic strength-tests shall be not less than 3 minutes.

ANNEX 5A

OVER PRESSURE TEST (STRENGTH TEST)

1.   A CNG containing component shall withstand without any visible evidence of rupture or permanent distortion a hydraulic pressure of 1,5-2 times the maximum working pressure during minimal 3 minutes at room temperature with the outlet of the high-pressure part plugged. Water or any other suitable hydraulic fluid may be used as a test medium.

2.   The samples, previously subjected to the durability test of annex 5L are to be connected to a source of hydrostatic pressure. A positive shut-off valve and a pressure gauge, having a pressure of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure, are to be installed in the hydrostatic pressure supply piping.

3.   Table 5.2 below shows the working and burst test pressures according to the Classification of paragraph 2 of this Regulation.

Table 5.2

Classification of component

Working pressure [kPa]

Overpressure [kPa]

Class 0

3 000 < p < 26 000

1,5 times the working pressure

Class 1

450 < p < 3 000

1,5 times the working pressure

Class 2

20 < p < 450

2 times the working pressure

Class 3

450 < p < 3 000

2 times the relief pressure

ANNEX 5B

EXTERNAL LEAKAGE TEST

1.   A component shall be free from leakage through stem or body seals or other joints, and shall not show evidence of porosity in casting when tested as described in paragraphs 2. and 3. of this annex at any aerostatic pressure between 0 and the pressure shown in table 5.2.

2.   The test shall be performed at the following conditions:

(i)

at room temperature

(ii)

at the minimum operating temperature

(iii)

at the maximum operating temperature

The maximum and minimum operating temperatures are given in annex 5O.

3.   During this test the equipment under test (EUT) will be connected to a source of aerostatic pressure. An automatic valve and a pressure gauge having a pressure range of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure are to be installed in the pressure supply piping. The pressure gauge is to be installed between the automatic valve and the sample under test. While under the applied test pressure, the sample should be submerged in water to detect leakage or any other equivalent test method (flow measurement or pressure drop).

4.   The external leakage must be lower than the requirements stated in the annexes or if no requirements are mentioned the external leakage shall be lower than 15 cm3/hour.

5.   High temperature test

A CNG containing component shall not leak more than 15 cm3/hour with the outlet plugged when submitted to a gas pressure, at maximum operating temperature as indicated in annex 5O, equal to the maximum working pressure. The component shall be conditioned for at least 8 hours at this temperature.

6.   Low temperature test

A CNG containing component shall not leak more than 15 cm3/hour with the outlet plugged when submitted to a gas pressure, at the minimum operating temperature, equal to the maximum working pressure as declared by the manufacturer. The component shall be conditioned for at least 8 hours at this temperature.

ANNEX 5C

INTERNAL LEAKAGE TEST

1.   The following tests are to be conducted on samples of valves or filling unit which have previously been subjected to the external leak test of annex 5B above.

2.   The seat of the valves, when in the closed position, shall be free from leakage at any aerostatic pressure between 0 to 1,5 times the working pressure (kPa).

3.   A non-return valve provided with a resilient seat (elastic), when in the closed position, shall not leak when subjected to any aerostatic pressure between 0 and 1,5 times the working pressure (kPa).

4.   A non-return valve provided with a metal-to-metal seat, when in the closed position, shall not leak at a rate exceeding 0,47 dm3/s when subjected to an aerostatic pressure difference of 138 kPa effective pressure.

5.   The seat of the upper non-return valve used in the assembly of a filling unit, when in the closed position, shall be free from leakage at any aerostatic pressure between 0 and 1,5 times the working pressure (kPa).

6.   The internal leakage tests are conducted with the inlet of the sample valve connected to a source of aerostatic pressure, the valve in the closed position, and with the outlet open. An automatic valve and a pressure gauge having a pressure range of not less than 1,5 times nor more than 2 times the test pressure are to be installed in the pressure supply piping. The pressure gauge is to be installed between the automatic valve and the sample under test. While under the applied test pressure, observations for leakage are to be made with the open outlet submerged in water unless otherwise indicated.

7.   Conformance with paragraphs 2. to 5. is to be determined by connecting a length of tubing to the valve outlet. The open end of this outlet tube is to be located within an inverted graduated cylinder which is calibrated in cubic centimetres. The inverted cylinder is to be closed by a water tight seal. The apparatus is to be adjusted so that:

(1)

the end of the outlet tube is located approximately 13 mm above the water level within the inverted graduated cylinder, and

(2)

the water within and exterior to the graduated cylinder is at the same level. With these adjustments made, the water level within the graduated cylinder is to be recorded. With the valve in the closed position assumed as the result of normal operation, air or nitrogen at the specified test pressure is to be applied to the valve inlet for a test period of not less than 2 minutes. During this time, the vertical position of the graduated cylinder is to be adjusted, if necessary, to maintain the same water level within and exterior to it.

At the end of the test period and with the water within and exterior to the graduated cylinder at the same level, the level of water within the graduated cylinder is again recorded. From the change of volume within the graduated cylinder, the leakage rate is to be calculated according to the following formula:

Formula

where:

V1

=

leakage rate, cubic centimetres of air or nitrogen per hour.

Vt

=

increase in volume within graduated cylinder during test.

t

=

time of test, minutes.

P

=

barometric pressure during test, in kPa.

T

=

ambient temperature during test, in K.

8.   Instead of the method described above, leakage may be measured by a flowmeter installed on the inlet side of the valve under test. The flowmeter shall be capable of indicating accurately, for the test fluid employed, the maximum leakage flow rates permitted.

ANNEX 5D

CNG COMPATIBILITY TEST

1.   A synthetic part in contact with CNG shall not show excessive volume change or loss of weight.

Resistance to n-pentane according to ISO 1817 with the following conditions:

(i)

medium: n-pentane

(ii)

temperature: 23 °C (tolerance acc.to ISO 1817)

(iii)

immersion period: 72 hours

2.   Requirements:

maximum change in volume 20 per cent

After storage in air with a temperature of 40 °C for a period of 48 hours the mass compared to the original value may not decrease more than 5 per cent.

ANNEX 5E

CORROSION RESISTANCE TEST

Test procedures:

1.   A metal CNG containing component shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in Annexes 5B and 5C and after having been submitted to 144 hours salt spray test according to ISO 15500-2, with all connections closed.

2.   A copper or brass CNG containing component shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in annexes 5B and 5C and after having been submitted to 24 hours immersion in ammonia according to ISO CD15500-2 with all connections closed.

ANNEX 5F

RESISTANCE TO DRY HEAT

1.   The test has to be done in compliance with ISO 188. The test piece has to be exposed to air at a temperature equal to the maximum operating temperature for 168 hours.

2.   The allowable change in tensile strength should not exceed +25 per cent. The allowable change in ultimate elongation shall not exceed the following values:

Maximum increase

10 per cent

Maximum decrease

30 per cent

ANNEX 5G

OZONE AGEING

1.   The test has to be in compliance with ISO 1431/1.

The test piece, which has to be stressed to 20 per cent elongation shall be exposed to air at 40 °C with an ozone concentration of 50 parts per hundred million during 72 hours.

2.   No cracking of the test piece is allowed.

ANNEX 5H

TEMPERATURE CYCLE TEST

A non metallic part containing CNG shall comply with the leakage tests mentioned in annexes 5B and 5C after having been submitted to 96 hours temperature cycle from the minimum operating temperature up to the maximum operating temperature with a cycle time of 120 minutes, under maximum working pressure.

ANNEX 5I

PRESSURE CYCLE TEST APPLICABLE ONLY TO CYLINDERS (SEE ANNEX 3)

 

ANNEXES 5J AND 5K

NOT ALLOCATED

 

ANNEX 5L

DURABILITY TEST (CONTINUED OPERATION)

Test method

The component shall be connected to a source of pressurised dry air or nitrogen by means of a suitable fitting and subjected to the number of cycles specified for that specific component. A cycle shall consist of one opening and one closing of the component within a period of not less than 10 ± 2 seconds.

(a)

Room temperature cycling

The component shall be operated through 96 per cent of the total cycles at room temperature and at rated service pressure. During the off cycle the down stream pressure of the test fixture should be allowed to decay to 50 per cent of the test pressure. After that, the components shall comply with the leakage test of annex 5B at room temperature. It is allowed to interrupt this part of the test at 20 per cent intervals for leakage testing.

(b)

High temperature cycling

The component shall be operated through 2 per cent of the total cycles at the appropriate maximum temperature specified at rated service pressure. The component shall comply with the leakage test of annex 5B at the appropriate maximum temperature at the completion of the high temperature cycles.

(c)

Low temperature cycling

The component shall be operated through 2 per cent of the total cycles at the appropriate minimum temperature specified at rated service pressure. The component shall comply with the leakage test of annex 5B at the appropriate minimum temperature specified at the completion of the low temperature cycles.

Following cycling and leakage re-test, the component shall be capable of completely opening and closing when a torque not greater than that specified in Table 5.3 is applied to the component handle in a direction to open it completely and then in the reverse direction.

Table 5.3

Component inlet size (mm)

Max. torque (Nm)

6

1,7

8 or 10

2,3

12

2,8

This test shall be conducted at the appropriate maximum temperature specified, and shall be repeated at a temperature of –40 °C.

ANNEX 5M

BURST/DESTRUCTIVE TEST APPLICABLE ONLY TO CYLINDERS (SEE ANNEX 3)

 

ANNEX 5N

VIBRATION RESISTANCE TEST

All components with moving parts shall remain undamaged, continue to operate, and comply with the component's leakage tests after 6 hours of vibration in accordance with the following test method.

Test method

The component shall be secured in an apparatus and vibrated for 2 hours at 17 Hz with an amplitude of 1,5 mm (0,06 in.) in each of three orientation axes. On completion of 6 hours of vibration the component shall comply with annex 5C.

ANNEX 5 O

OPERATING TEMPERATURES

 

Engine Compartment

Assembled on the engine

On board

Moderate

–20  °C ÷ 105 °C

–20  °C ÷ 120 °C

–20  °C ÷ 85 °C

Cold

–40  °C ÷ 105 °C

–40  °C ÷ 120 °C

–40  °C ÷ 85 °C


ANNEX 6

PROVISIONS REGARDING CNG IDENTIFICATION MARK FOR PUBLIC SERVICE VEHICLES

Image 62

CNG

The sign consists of a sticker which must be weather resistant.

The colour and dimensions of the sticker must fulfil the following requirements:

Colours:

 

Background:

green

Border:

white or white reflecting

Letters:

white or white reflecting

Dimensions:

 

Border width:

4-6 mm

Character height:

≥ 25 mm

Character thickness:

≥ 4 mm

Sticker width:

110-150 mm

Sticker height:

80-110 mm

The word ‘CNG’ must be centred in the middle of the sticker.