Introduction:
In a separate article I describe the requirements of 49 CFR 173.306 for Limited quantities of compressed gases as they apply to aerosol. A portion of those regulations indicates authorized metal aerosol containers and associated pressure limitations. In order to simplify my separate article on shipping aerosols as a limited quantity, I will detail the general pressure conditions of §173.306(a)(3)(ii) in this article.
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Before we begin…
§173.306(a) is just the beginning of the limited quantity exception for aerosols. Additional exceptions for limited quantities of aerosols are provided in §173.306(i) and are addressed in this article: Transport of Aerosols in Metal Containers
Scope and Applicability:
§173.306 is applicable to all compressed gases eligible for some form of the limited quantity exception – not just aerosols. For example, gas samples, refrigerating machines, accumulators, lighter refills, and more are eligible for some form of the limited quantity exception at §173.306. This article will solely address the requirements for a limited quantity of a compressed gas in a metal aerosol container.
General Pressure Conditions of §173.306(a)(3)(ii):
| If the gauge pressure (psig) at 54.4 degrees C (130 degrees F) is... | Authorized container |
|---|---|
| 140 or less | Non-DOT specification DOT 2P DOT 2Q DOT 2Q1 |
| Greater than 140 but not exceeding 160 | DOT 2P DOT 2Q DOT 2Q1 |
| Greater than 160 but not exceeding 180 | DOT 2Q DOT 2Q1 |
| Not to exceed 210 | DOT 2Q1 (non-flammable only) |
Also…
- Pressure inside the container may not exceed 180 psig at 54.4 °C (130 °F) except as may be authorized by variations of a DOT specification container type.
- The metal container must be capable of withstanding without bursting a pressure of at least one and one-half times the equilibrium pressure of the contents at 54.4 °C (130 °F).
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Conclusion:
The manufacturer of the aerosol container will likely be the one with this information. However, it is the person who prepares the hazardous material and offers it for transportation (i.e., the shipper) who is responsible for compliance with §173.306(a)(3)(ii) and the remainder of §173.306.