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Title 46: Shipping

PART 162—ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT 

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Subpart 162.050—Pollution Prevention Equipment 

Source: CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, unless otherwise noted. 

§ 162.050-1 Scope. 

(a) This subpart contains— 

(1) Procedures for approval of 15 ppm separators, oil content meters, and bilge alarms. 

(2) Design specifications for this equipment; 

(3) Tests required for approval; 

(4) Procedures for obtaining designation as a facility authorized to conduct approval tests; 

(5) Marking requirements; and 

(6) Factory inspection procedures. 

(b) [Reserved] 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3382, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-3 Definitions. 

As used in this subpart— 

15 ppm separator means a separator that is designed to remove enough oil from an oil-water mixture to 

provide a resulting mixture that has an oil concentration of 15 ppm or less. 

Bilge alarm means an instrument that is designed to measure the oil content of oily mixtures from 

machinery space bilges and fuel oil tanks that carry ballast and activate an alarm at a set concentration 

limit and record date, time, alarm status, and operating status of the 15 ppm separator. 

Independent laboratory means a laboratory that— 

(1) Has the equipment and procedures necessary to approve the electrical components described in 

§§162.050–21(b) and 162.050–25(c), or to conduct the test described in §162.050–37(a); and 

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(2) Is not owned or controlled by a manufacturer, supplier, or vendor of separators, oil content meters, or 

bilge alarms. 

Oil content meter or meter means a component of the oil discharge monitoring and control system that is 

designed to measure the oil content of cargo residues from cargo tanks and oily mixtures combined with 

these residues. 

PPM means parts per million by volume of oil in water. 

Response time means the time elapsed between an alteration in the sample being supplied to the bilge 

alarm and the ppm display showing the correct response. 

[USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3382, Jan. 16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-4 Incorporation by reference: Where can I get a copy of the publications 

mentioned in this part? 

(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this subpart with the approval of the Director of the 

Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that 

specified in paragraph (b) of this section, the Coast Guard must publish a notice of change in the 

 Federal Register and the material must be available to the public. All approved material is available for 

inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the 

availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030 or go to 

http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html . Also, it is 

available for inspection at the Coast Guard, Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG–521), 

2100 2nd St., SW., Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593–7126, telephone 202–372–1379, and is 

available from the sources indicated in paragraph (b) of this section. 

(b) American Society for Testing and Materials 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428–

2959. 

(1) ASTM D2777–98, Standard Practice for Determination of Precision and Bias of Applicable Test 

Methods of Committee D–19 on Water (“ASTM D2777–98”), incorporation by reference approved for 

§162.050–15. 

(2) [Reserved] 

(c) International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 1, rue de Varembé, Case postale 56, CH–1211 

Geneva 20, Switzerland (Internet: http://www.iso.org): 

(1) International Standard ISO 8217 Third edition 2005–11–01, Petroleum products—Fuels (class F)—

Specifications of marine fuels (“ISO 8217”), incorporation by reference approved for §162.050–20. 

(2) International Standard ISO 9377–2 First edition 2000–10–15, Water Quality—Determination of 

hydrocarbon oil index—Part 2: Method using solvent extraction and gas chromatography (“ISO 9377–

2”), incorporation by reference approved for §162.050–39. 

(d) Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., (UL) 12 Laboratory Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709–3995 

(1) Underwriters Laboratories Standard 913 (as revised April 8, 1976), incorporation by reference 

approved for §§162.050–21, 162.050–25. 

(2) [Reserved] 

[USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009, as amended by USCG–2009–0702, 74 FR 49238, 

Sept. 25, 2009] 

§ 162.050-5 Contents of application. 

(a) An application for approval of a separator, oil content meter, or a bilge alarm must contain the 

following information: 

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(1) A brief description of the item submitted for approval. 

(2) The name and address of the applicant and its manufacturing facility. 

(3) A detailed description of quality control procedures, in-process and final inspections and tests 

followed in manufacturing the item, and construction and sales record keeping systems maintained. 

(4) Arrangement drawings and piping diagrams of the item that give the information prescribed by 

§56.01–10(d) of this chapter. 

(5) Detailed electrical plans of the type described in §110.25–1 of this chapter. 

(6) An operating and maintenance manual containing detailed and easily understandable instructions on 

installation, operation, calibration, zeroing, and maintenance of the item. 

(7) For each monitor and bilge alarm and each control on a separator, the vibration test report described 

in §162.050–37. 

(8) For each oil content meter, a statement of whether it is to be used with crude oils, refined products, 

or both. 

(9) A list of the substances used in operating the item that require certification under part 147 of this 

chapter as articles of ships' stores and supplies. 

(10) The name of the facility to conduct approval testing. 

(11) If the applicant intends to use a test rig other than a test rig of the facility, a detailed description of 

the rig. 

(b) An applicant may incorporate by reference in his application information that he has submitted in a 

previous application. 

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999; USCG–

2004–18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-7 Approval procedures. 

(a) An application for approval of equipment under this subpart must either be delivered by visitors to the 

Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, Engineering Division, 1900 Half Street, 

SW., Suite 1000, Room 525, Washington, DC 20024, or transmitted by mail to Commanding Officer, 

U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center, 2100 2nd St., SW., Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593–7126, 

in a written or electronic format. Information for submitting the VSP electronically can be found at 

http://www.uscg.mil/HQ/MSC. 

(b) The application is examined by the Coast Guard to determine whether the item complies with the 

design requirements and vibration standard prescribed in this subpart and to determine what probability 

the item has of passing the approval tests. The applicant is notified of the results of the examination. 

(c) If examination of the application reveals that it is incomplete, it is returned to the applicant with a 

statement of reasons why it is incomplete. 

(d) The applicant must make arrangements for approval testing directly with a testing facility and must 

provide the facility with a copy of the instructions manual for the equipment to be tested. 

(e) If applications for approval of a separator have been made for more than one size, the applicant, in 

lieu of submitting each size for approval testing, may submit each size that has a capacity exceeding 50 

cubic meters per hour throughput, if any, and two additional sizes that have a capacity of 50 cubic 

meters per hour throughput or less. One of the additional sizes must have a capacity that is in the 

highest quartile of capacities manufactured in the 0–50 cubic meters per hour throughput range and the 

other must be from the lowest quartile. 

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(f) The approval tests in this subpart must be performed by a facility designated under §162.050–15. The 

facility must also be accepted as an independent laboratory by the Coast Guard under subpart 159.010 

of this chapter. The facility must perform each test in accordance with the test conditions prescribed in 

this subpart for the test, prepare a test report for the item if it completes all of the tests, and send the 

report with three copies to the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center. The applicant may 

observe the tests. If an item does not complete testing, a new application must be made before 

retesting. 

(g) The Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center, sends a copy of the test report to the 

applicant and advises him whether the item is approved. If the item is approved, an approval certificate 

is sent to the applicant. The approval certificate lists conditions of approval applicable to the item. 

(h) A separator is approved under this subpart if— 

(1) It meets the design requirements in §162.050–21 and is tested in accordance with this subpart; 

(2) The oil content of each sample of separated water effluent taken during approval testing is 15 ppm or 

less; 

(3) During Test No. 3A an oily mixture is not observed at the separated water outlet of the separator; 

(4) During Test No. 5A its operation is continuous; and 

(5) Any substance used in operating the separator that requires certification under part 147 of this 

chapter as an article of ships' stores or supplies has been certified. 

(i) An oil content meter is approved under this subpart if— 

(1) It meets the design requirements in §162.050–25 and is tested in accordance with this subpart; 

(2) Each oil content reading recorded during approval testing is ± 10 ppm or ± 10 percent, whichever is 

greater, of the oil content of the sample influent mixture taken at the time of the reading; 

(3) Its response time is twenty (20) seconds or less in Test No. 3CM; 

(4) The time intervals between successive readings recorded in Test No. 4CM are twenty (20) seconds 

or less; and 

(5) Any substance used in operating the monitor that requires certification under part 147 of this chapter 

as an article of ships' stores or supplies has been certified. 

(j) A bilge alarm is approved under this subpart if— 

(1) It meets the design requirements in §162.050–33 and is tested in accordance with this subpart; 

(2) The oil content of each sample taken during approval testing is 15 ppm ± 5 ppm; 

(3) Its response time is five seconds or less; and 

(4) Any substance used in operating the alarm that requires certification under part 147 of this chapter 

as an article of ships' stores or supplies has been certified. 

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by CGD 82–063b, 48 FR 4783, Feb. 3, 1983; 48 FR 45114, 

Oct. 3, 1983; CGD 88–070, 53 FR 34537, Sept. 7, 1988; CGD 95–072, 60 FR 50467, Sept. 29, 1995; 

CGD 96–041, 61 FR 50734, Sept. 27, 1996; USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53228, Oct. 1, 1999; USCG 

2001–10224, 66 FR 48621, Sept. 21, 2001; USCG–2007–29018, 72 FR 53967, Sept. 21, 2007; USCG–

2004–18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 16, 2009; USCG–2009–0702, 74 FR 49238, Sept. 25, 2009] 

§ 162.050-9 Test report. 

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(a) A report of approval testing must contain the following: 

(1) Name of the testing facility. 

(2) Name of the applicant. 

(3) Date of receiving the item for testing and the dates of the tests conducted. 

(4) Trade name and brief description of the item. 

(5) A listing of the following properties of the test oils used: 

(i) Relative density at 15 °C. 

(ii) Viscosity in centistokes at 37.8 °C. 

(iii) Flashpoint. 

(iv) Weight of ash content. 

(v) Weight of water content. 

(vi) Relative density at 15 °C. the of water used during testing and the weight of solid content in the 

water. 

(vii) The data recorded during each test. 

(6) A statement that the lab followed the testing procedures prescribed in 46 CFR subpart 162.050. 

(b) [Reserved] 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-11 Marking. 

(a) Each separator, oil content meter, and bilge alarm manufactured under Coast Guard approval must 

be plainly marked by the manufacturer with the information listed in paragraph (b) of this section. The 

marking must be securely fastened to the item. 

(b) Each marking must include the following information: 

(1) Name of the manufacturer. 

(2) Name or model number of the item. 

(3) If the item is a separator, the maximum throughput and the maximum influent pressure at which the 

separator is designed to operate. 

(4) The month and year of completion of manufacture. 

(5) The manufacturer's serial number for the item. 

(6) The Coast Guard approval number assigned to the item in the certificate of approval. 

(7) A list of bilge cleaners, solvents, and other chemical compounds that do not impair operation of the 

item. 

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(8) If the item is an oil content meter, the oils for which use has been approved. 

(9) If the item is a separator that uses replaceable filter or coalescer elements, the part numbers of the 

elements. 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3383, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-13 Factory production and inspection. 

(a) Equipment manufactured under Coast Guard approval must be of the type described in the current 

certificate of approval issued for the equipment. 

(b) Equipment manufactured under Coast Guard approval is not inspected on a regular schedule at the 

place of manufacture. However, the Commanding Officer, USCG Marine Safety Center, may detail 

Coast Guard personnel at any time to visit a factory where the equipment is manufactured to conduct an 

inspection of the manufacturing process. 

[44 FR 53359, Sept.13, 1979, as amended by USCG 2001–10224, 66 FR 48621, Sept. 21, 2001] 

§ 162.050-15 Designation of facilities. 

(a) Each request for designation as a facility authorized to perform approval tests must be submitted to 

the Commandant (CG–5213), Systems Engineering Division, 2100 2nd St., SW., Stop 7126, 

Washington, DC 20593–7126. 

(b) Each request must include the following: 

(1) Name and address of the facility. 

(2) Each type of equipment the facility proposes to test. 

(3) A description of the facility's capability to perform approval tests including detailed information on the 

following: 

(i) Management organization including personnel qualifications. 

(ii) Equipment available for conducting sample analysis. 

(iii) Materials available for approval testing. 

(iv) Each of the facility's test rigs, if any. 

(c) The Coast Guard reviews each request submitted to determine whether the facility meets the 

requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(4) of this section. 

(d) If the facility meets the requirements in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(4) of this section, they must 

obtain 12 samples containing mixtures of oil in water that are within a 10-to-30 ppm range that can be 

verified by an independent third-party source mutually acceptable to the applying lab and the Coast 

Guard prior to verification. 

(e) The facility must measure the oil content of each sample using the method described in §162.050–39 

and report the value of each of the 12 measurements to the Commandant (CG–5213), Systems 

Engineering Division, 2100 2nd St., SW., Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593–7126. 

(f) The measurements must meet the following criteria: 

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(2) of this section, the absolute value of Tn for each 

measurement, as determined by the American Society for Testing and Materials, “Standard Practice for 

Determination of Precision and Bias of Methods of Committee D–19 on Water”, D 2777 (incorporated by 

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reference, see §162.050–4), must be less than or equal to 2.29 at a confidence level of 0.05. 

(2) The absolute value of Tn for one measurement may exceed 2.29 if the Tn values for the other eleven 

measurements are less than or equal to 2.23 at a confidence level of 0.05. If the Tn value for one 

measurement exceeds 2.29, that measurement is not used in the method described in paragraph (f)(3) 

of this section. 

(3) The absolute value of Xdmust be smaller than u based on the following analysis of paired 

observations: 

(i) Calculate the value of Xdand Sd. This is the mean and standard deviation, respectively, of the 

differences between the known sample concentrations and the values obtained by the facility with their 

equipment. The value of Xdfor the 12 measurements described in paragraph (e) of this section, or for 11 

measurements if paragraph (f)(2) of this section applies, must be within the range 1 ≤ Xd≤ + 1. 

(ii) Determine the appropriate critical value of the Student's t-distribution with (n-1) degrees of freedom 

for a confidence level of α = 0.01. If all 12 samples meet the criteria of paragraph (f)(1) of this section 

then (n-1) = 11 and the critical value, 

is 3.106. If paragraph (f)(2) of this section applies, then (n-1) = 10 and 

=3.169. 

(iii) Compute the value of u, where 

where n = 12 if all samples meet the criteria of paragraph (f)(1) and n = 11 if paragraph (f)(2) applies. 

(iv) Compare the absolute value of Xdto the value of u. If &bond;Xd&bond; < u, then the facility meets 

the criteria. 

(g) To obtain authorization to conduct approval tests— 

(1) A facility must have the management organization, equipment for conducting sample analysis, and 

the materials necessary to perform the tests; 

(2) Each facility test rig must be of a type described in §162.050–17 or §162.050–19; 

(3) The loss or award of a specific contract to test equipment must not be a substantial factor in the 

facility's financial well being; 

(4) The facility must be free of influence and control of the manufacturers, suppliers, and vendors of the 

equipment; and 

(5) The oil content measurements submitted to the Commandant must meet the criteria in paragraph (f) 

of this section. 

(h) A facility may not subcontract for approval testing unless previously authorized by the Coast Guard. 

A request for authorization to subcontract must be sent to the Commandant (CG-5213), Systems 

Engineering Division, 2100 2nd St., SW., Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593–7126. 

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[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979] 

Editorial Note: For Federal Register citations affecting §162.050–16, see the List of CFR Sections 

Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and at www.fdsys.gov. 

§ 162.050-17 Separator test rig. 

(a) This section contains requirements for test rigs used in approval testing of separators. A diagram of a 

typical test rig is shown in Figure 162.050–17(a). 

FIGURE 162.050–17(a)—SEPARATOR TEST RIG 

View or download PDF 

(b) Each mixture pump on a test rig must— 

(1) Be a centrifugal pump capable of operating at 1,000 revolutions per minute or more; 

(2) Have a delivery capacity of at least 1.5 times the maximum throughput at which the separator being 

tested is designed to operate; 

(3) Have a maximum delivery pressure that is equal to or greater than the maximum influent pressure at 

which the separator is designed to operate; and 

(4) Have either bypass piping to its suction side or a throttle valve or orifice on its discharge side. 

(c) The inlet piping of the test rig must be sized so that— 

(1) Influent water flows at a Reynolds Number of at least 10,000; 

(2) The influent flow rate is between one and three meters per second; and 

(3) Its length is at least 20 times its inside diameter. 

(d) Each sample point on a test rig must meet the design requirements described in Figure 162.050–17

(d) and must be in a vertical portion of the test rig piping. 

FIGURE 162.050–17(d)—SAMPLE POINT 

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View or download PDF 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3384, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-19 Oil content meter and bilge alarm test rig. 

(a) This section contains requirements for test rigs used in approval testing of oil content meters and 

meter. A typical test rig is described in Figure 162.050–19. The mixture pipe shown in Figure 162.050–

19 is the portion of test rig piping between the oil injection point and the meter or bilge alarm piping. 

(b) Each sample point on a test rig must be of the type described in Figure 162.050–17(e) and must be 

in a vertical portion of the test rig piping. 

(c) Each test rig must have a centrifugal pump that is designed to operate at 1,000 revolutions per 

minute or more. 

(d) The mixture pipe on a test rig must have a uniform inside diameter. 

FIGURE 162.050–19—MONITOR AND BILGE ALARM TEST RIG 

View or download PDF 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3385, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-20 Separator and bilge alarm test fluids. 

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(a) Tests required in §§162.050–23 and 162.050–35 must be performed using the following three types 

of test fluids: 

(1) Test Fluid A, which is a marine residual fuel oil in accordance with ISO 8217 (incorporated by 

reference, see §162.050–4), type RMG 380 (density at 15 °C not less than 980 kg/m3);

(2) Test Fluid B which is a marine distillate fuel oil in accordance with ISO 8217, type DMA (density at 15 

°C not less than 830 kg/m3);

(3) Test Fluid C must be a mixture of an oil-in-fresh water emulsion, where 1 kg of the mixture consists 

of: 

(i) 947.8 g of fresh water; 

(ii) 25.0 g of Test Fluid A; 

(iii) 25.0 g of Test Fluid B; 

(iv) 0.5 g of surfactant (sodium salt of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid) in the dry form; and 

(v) 1.7 g of iron oxides, a black ferrosoferric oxide (Fe3O4) with a particle size distribution of which 90 

percent is less than 10 microns, the remainder having a maximum particle size of 100 microns. 

(b) Test Fluid C must be prepared as needed for §162.050–23 or §162.050–35 by using the following 

procedures: 

(1) Measure out 1.2 times the quantity of surfactant required from the WORKSHEET FOR 

DETERMINING CONSTITUENTS OF TEST FLUID C, see figure 162.050–20; 

(2) Mix it with fresh water and stir well in a small container to make a mixture until the surfactant has 

been thoroughly dissolved, but use no more than the minimum amount of water necessary to make a 

complete solution; 

(3) Fill clean test fluid tank with fresh water with a quantity 1.2 times the volume of the total quantity of 

water in Test Fluid C needed for the test described in §§162.050–23 and 162.050–35; 

(4) Operate the centrifugal pump B running at a speed of not less than 3,000 rpm with a flow rate at 

which the volume of the test fluid has been changed out at least once per minute; 

(5) Add the surfactant mixture from paragraph (b)(2) of this section first, followed by oil and suspended 

solids (iron oxides) respectively, both 1.2 times of the required amounts, to the fresh water in the tank; 

(6) To establish a stable emulsion keep running the centrifugal pump B for one hour and confirm no oil 

floats on the surface of the test fluid; and 

(7) After the one hour stated in paragraph (b)(6) of this section, keep running the centrifugal pump B at 

reduced speed to approximately 10 percent of original flow rate, until the end of the test. 

FIGURE 162.050–20 

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View or download PDF 

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View or download PDF 

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View or download PDF 

[USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3385, Jan. 16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-21 Separator: Design specification. 

(a) A separator must be designed to operate in each plane that forms an angle of 22.5° with the plane of 

its normal operating position. 

(b) The electrical components of a separator that are to be installed in an explosive atmosphere must be 

approved by an independent laboratory as components that Underwriters Laboratories Standard 913 

(dated April 8, 1976) (incorporated by reference, see §162.050–4) defines as intrinsically safe for use in 

a Class I, Group D hazardous location. 

(c) Each separator component that is a moving part must be designed so that its movement during 

operation of the separator does not cause formation of static electricity. 

(d) Each separator must be designed in accordance with the applicable requirements in subchapters F 

and J of this chapter. 

(e) Each separator must be designed to be operated both automatically and manually. Each separator 

must be capable of operating automatically for at least 24 hours. 

(f) Each separator must be designed so that adjustments to valves or other equipment are not necessary 

to start it. 

(g) Each part of a separator that is susceptible to wear and tear must be readily accessible for 

maintenance in its installed position. 

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(h) A separator must be designed so that it does not rely in whole or in part on dilution of influent 

mixtures as a means of performing its function. 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3388, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-23 Separator: Approval tests. 

(a) Test Conditions. (1) Each test described in this section must be performed at a throughput and 

influent pressure equal to the maximum throughput and pressure at which the separator being tested is 

designed to operate. The tests and each of the steps in the tests must be carried out in the order 

described in this section. Each test must be performed without time delay between steps in the test. 

(2) A test rig of the type described in §162.050–17 must be used in performing each test. 

(3) If a separator has a supply pump, it must be tested using that pump. If a separator does not have a 

supply pump, it must be tested using the mixture pump on the test rig. 

(4) The influent water used in each test must be clean fresh water or clean fresh water in solution with 

sodium chloride. In either case, the relative density of the water must be no greater than 1.015 at 20 °C. 

(5) Each test must be conducted at an ambient temperature of between 10 °C and 30 °C. 

(6) The oil content of each sample must be measured using the method described in §162.050–39. 

(7) Influent oil content must be determined during testing by measuring the flow rates of the oil and water 

that are mixed to form the influent or by use of an oil content meter on the inlet piping of the test rig. If an 

oil content meter is used, a sample of influent and a meter reading must be taken at the beginning of 

each test. If the meter reading is not within ±10 percent of the oil content of the sample, the meter 

readings subsequently taken during the test are unacceptable test results. 

(8) When collecting a sample at a sample point that has a stop cock, the first minute of fluid flow through 

the stop cock must not be included in the sample collected. 

(9) In each test, the separator must be operated in accordance with the procedures described in its 

instruction manual. 

(10) No maintenance, including replacement of parts, may be performed on a separator during or 

between the tests described in this section. 

(11) A 1 liter sample of each oil to be used in testing must be taken and provided for use in the sample 

analysis required by §162.050–39 . 

(12) The separator may not be operated manually in Test No. 5A. 

(13) If a separator has an integral bilge alarm, the separator must be tested with the bilge alarm 

installed. 

(b) The following tests must be conducted using Test Fluid A: 

(1) Test No. 1A. The separator is filled with water and started. Next, the separator is fed with pure Test 

Fluid A for at least 5 minutes and then with a mixture of Test Fluid A and water influent containing Test 

Fluid A content of between 5,000 and 10,000 ppm until a steady flow rate at a steady, constant ppm 

occurs. After the flow rate is steady, the influent is fed to the separator for 30 minutes. Samples of 

separated water effluent are taken after the first 10 and 20 minutes. At the end of the 30-minute period, 

the air cock on the test rig is opened and, if necessary, the oil and water supply valves are closed to stop 

the flow of influent. A sample is then taken of the separated water effluent as the effluent flow ceases. 

(2) Test No. 2A . Repeat Test No. 1A in paragraph (b)(1) of this section using an influent containing 

approximately 25 percent oil and 75 percent water. Percentage is on a by volume basis. 

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(3) Test No. 3A . The separator is fed with 100 percent Test Fluid A until Fluid A is discharged at the oil 

discharge outlet of the separator at essentially the same rate that oil is being fed to the separator. The 

separator is then fed with 100 percent Test Fluid A for 5 additional minutes. If any oily mixture is 

discharged from the separated water outlet on the separator during the test, that observation is 

recorded. 

(4) Test No. 4A . The separator is fed with water for 15 minutes. Samples of the separated water effluent 

are taken at the beginning of the test and after the first 10 minutes. 

(5) Test No. 5A . The separator is operated automatically for 3 hours. During the test, the separator is 

continuously fed with an influent varying from water to a mixture of 25 percent Test Fluid A in water and 

back to water every 15 minutes. The Test Fluid A concentration in the influent is varied in at least five 

equal increments during each 15-minute period and the time intervals between the incremental changes 

are equal. During the last hour, the separator must be inclined at an angle of 22.5° with the plane of its 

normal operating position. During the last time increment in which the unit is fed a 25 percent Fluid A 

mixture, a sample of the separated water effluent is taken. If the separator stops at any time during this 

test, that observation is recorded. 

(c) The following tests must be conducted using Test Fluid B: 

(1) Test No. 1B. Repeat Test No. 1A in paragraph (b)(1) of this section using Test Fluid B; and 

(2) Test No. 2B. Repeat Test No. 2A in paragraph (b)(2) of this section using Test Fluid B. 

(d) The following tests must be conducted using Test Fluid C: Test No. 1C. The separator is fed with a 

mixture composed of 6 percent Test Fluid C and 94 percent water by volume such that the emulsified 

Test Fluid C content is approximately 3,000 ppm in the test water until a steady flow rate occurs. After 

the flow rate is steady, the influent containing the 6 percent Test Fluid C solution is fed to the separator 

operating automatically for 3 hours. Samples of separated water effluent are taken at 50 minutes and 

100 minutes. At the end of the 3-hour period, the air cock on the test rig is opened and, if necessary, the 

oil and water supply valves are closed to stop the flow of influent. A sample is then taken of the 

separated water effluent as the effluent flow ceases. 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3388, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-25 Cargo monitor: Design specification. 

(a) This section contains requirements that apply to cargo monitors. 

(b) Each monitor must be designed so that it is calibrated by a means that does not involve manually 

mixing a known quantity of oil and a known quantity of water to form a mixture and manually feeding the 

mixture into the monitor. 

(c) The electrical components of a monitor that are to be installed in an explosive atmosphere must be 

approved by an independent laboratory as components that Underwriters Laboratories Standard 913 

(dated April 8, 1976) (incorporated by reference, see §162.050–4) defines as intrinsically safe for use in 

a Class I, Group D hazardous location. 

(d) Each monitor component that is a moving part must be designed so that its movement during 

operation of the monitor does not cause formation of static electricity. 

(e) A monitor must be designed to operate in each plane that forms an angle of 22.5° with the plane of 

its normal operating position. 

(f) Each monitor must be designed in accordance with the applicable requirements contained in 

subchapters F and J of this chapter. 

(g) Each monitor must be designed so that it records each change in oil content of the mixture it is 

measuring within 20 seconds after the change occurs. 

(h) Each monitor must have a device that produces a warning signal and a signal that can be used to 

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actuate valves in a vessel's fixed piping system, when— 

(1) The oil content of the mixture being measured exceeds the concentration limit set by the operator of 

the monitor; and 

(2) Malfunction, breakdown, or other failure of the monitor occurs. 

(i) Each monitor must have a means to determine whether it is accurately calibrated. 

[44 FR 53359, Sept. 13. 1079, as amended by CGD 76–088c, 48 FR 45727, Oct. 6, 1983; USCG–

2004–18939, 74 FR 3389, Jan. 16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-27 Oil content meter: Approval tests. 

This section contains requirements that apply to performing each test. 

(a) Test conditions . (1) The tests and each step in the tests must be carried out in the order described in 

this section. Each test must be performed without time delay between steps in the test. No maintenance, 

including replacement of parts, may be performed on the meter during or between the tests described in 

this section. 

(2) A test rig of the type described in §162.050–19 must be used when performing each test. 

(3) Each mixture used during the tests must be prepared by combining oil supplied from the oil injection 

pipe of the test rig and water supplied from the mixture tank of the test rig. However, if the flow of oil 

through the oil injection pipe becomes intermittent, oil and water may be combined in the mixture tank to 

form the mixture. 

(4) A mixture may be circulated through a meter only once during testing. 

(5) Unless otherwise provided in a specific test, the water used in each test must be clean, fresh water. 

(6) The oil used in each test, except Test No. 2 in paragraph (c) of this section, must be Arabian light 

crude oil. 

(7) Each test must be performed at an ambient temperature of between 10 °C and 30 °C. 

(8) Unless otherwise provided in a specific test, each test must be performed at the maximum mixture 

pressure, the maximum flow rate, and the power supply ratings at which the meter is designed to 

operate. 

(9) The particulate contaminant described in Test No. 5 in paragraph (f) of this section, if not attapulgite, 

must be of a type that does not lose more than 3 percent of its weight after ignition and must be 

insoluble in a 500 ppm mixture. 

(10) In each test the meter must be operated in accordance with the procedures described in its 

instructions manual. 

(11) Unless otherwise provided in a specific test, the centrifugal pump shown in Figure 162.050–19 in 

§162.050–19 must be operated at 1,000 revolutions per minute or more in each test. 

(12) Whenever the oil content of a mixture is recorded, a sample of the mixture must also be taken. The 

oil content of the sample must be measured using the method described in §162.050–39. 

(13) A one-liter sample of each oil to be used in testing must be taken and provided for use in the 

sample analysis required by §162.050–39. 

(b) Test No. 1 Calibration and Zero Test . The meter is calibrated and zeroed to manufacturer's 

instructions. It is then fed with water for 15 minutes and then with mixtures in the following 

concentrations: 15 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, and each additional concentration, in increments of 50 ppm 

up to the highest oil concentration that can be read on the meter. Each mixture is fed to the meter in the 

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order listed in Table 162.050–27(c) for 15 minutes. Water is fed to the meter for a 15-minute period 

between each mixture. At the end of each 15-minute period, an oil content reading is obtained and 

recorded, and a calibration curve must be created. 

(c) Test No. 2 Response to Different Oil Types Test . (1) If the meter is designed for use with crude oils, 

it is fed with a mixture of water and the first oil listed in Table 162.050–27(c) at the following 

concentrations: 15 ppm, 100 ppm, and a concentration that is 90 percent of the highest oil concentration 

in water that can be read on the meter. Each concentration is fed to the meter in the order listed until a 

steady reading occurs and is recorded. After each steady reading is recorded, the meter is fed with 

water for 15 minutes. At the end of each 15-minute period of feeding the meter with water, an oil content 

reading is again obtained and recorded, and a calibration curve must be created. 

(2) The steps described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section are repeated using each of the other oils listed 

in Table 162.050–27(c). A calibration curve must be created for each oil tested. 

Table 162.050–27(c)—Oil Type and Characteristics 

(3) If any oil listed in Table 162.050–27(c) is unavailable, an oil with similar properties may be 

substituted in testing. 

(4) If the meter will be used with refined oil products, the steps described in paragraph (c)(1) of this 

Oil type Characteristics

Sahara blend crude oil Density—low.

 Viscosity—low.

 Pour point—very low.

 Producing country—Algeria.

 General description—mixed base.

Arabian light crude oil Density—medium.

 Viscosity—medium.

 Pour point—low.

 Producing country—Saudi Arabia.

 General description—mixed base.

Nigerian medium crude oil Density—high.

 Viscosity—medium.

 Pour point—low.

 Producing country—Nigeria.

 General description—naphthenic base.

Bachaquero 17 crude oil Density—very high.

 Viscosity—very high.

 Pour point—low.

 Producing country—Venezuela.

 General description—asphaltic base.

Minas crude oil Density—medium.

 Viscosity—high.

 Pour point—very high.

 Producing country—Indonesia.

 General description—paraffinic base.

Residual fuel oil Bunker C or No. 6 Fuel Oil.

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section are performed using each of the following: 

(i) Leaded regular grade automotive gasoline; 

(ii) Unleaded automotive gasoline; 

(iii) Kerosene; and 

(iv) Light diesel or No. 2 fuel oil. 

(5) If the meter will be used with category C and D oil-like noxious liquid substances to meet the 

requirements of 33 CFR 151.41(b), the tests described in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section are to be 

performed using the substances for which approval is sought. 

(d) Test No. 3 Response Time Test. (1) The meter is fed with water, zeroed, and then fed with a 100 

ppm mixture. The time at which the meter first detects oil in the mixture, the times of reading 63 ppm and 

90 ppm, and the time of reaching the highest steady reading of oil content are recorded. The oil content 

of the mixture at the highest steady reading is also recorded. 

(2) The metering pump is turned off and the time at which the highest reading starts to decrease, the 

times of reading 37 ppm and 10 ppm, and the time of returning to the lowest steady oil content reading 

are recorded. The oil content of the mixture at the lowest steady reading is also recorded. 

(3) The time interval between first detecting oil in the mixture and reading 63 ppm, and the time interval 

between the first decrease in the highest reading and reading 37 ppm, are averaged and recorded as 

the response time for the meter. 

(e) Test No. 4 Oil Fouling and Calibration Shift Test. (1) The meter is fed with water, zeroed, and then 

fed with a mixture containing 10 percent oil for one minute. The following must be recorded: 

(i) Time at which the meter first detects oil; 

(ii) Time of reading 15 ppm; 

(iii) Time of reading 100 ppm; 

(iv) Time of exceeding the highest oil concentration that can be read on the meter; 

(v) Time of returning to the highest oil concentration that can be read on the meter; 

(vi) Time of returning to a reading of 100 ppm; 

(vii) Time of returning to a reading of 15 ppm; and 

(viii) Time of returning to the lowest steady oil content reading. 

(2) The oil content of the mixture at the lowest steady reading described in paragraph (e)(1)(viii) of this 

section is recorded. 

(3) The meter is fed with water, zeroed, and then fed with oil for 1 minute after which the flow of water is 

resumed. The times described in paragraph (e)(1) of this section are recorded. 

(4) If it is necessary to clean the meter after each oil-fouling test for it to return to a zero reading, this fact 

and the time required to clean and recalibrate the meter must be noted and recorded in the test report. 

(5) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

(f) Test No. 5 Contaminant Test. (1) The meter is fed with a 15 ppm mixture until a steady oil content 

reading is obtained and recorded. 

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(2) The meter is fed with a 15 ppm oil mixture of contaminated water consisting of not less than 270 ppm 

by weight of the clay mineral attapulgite, or similar contaminant that is stable in both fresh and salt water 

and 30 ppm by weight of iron oxides. The test contaminant should have a particle size distribution with 

about 30 percent of 10 microns or less and a maximum particle size of 100 microns. The oil content 

reading, when steady, is recorded. 

(3) Each of the two contaminants will be mixed sequentially in the following manner: the mixing of 

attapulgite shall be for a period of not less than 15 minutes so that a homogeneous suspension is 

formed; then, iron oxides will be added for an additional period of not less than 10 minutes. The mixing 

process should maintain the contaminants in suspension throughout the test period. 

(4) The test in paragraph (f)(2) of this section is repeated for 100 and 300 ppm oil mixtures in 

contaminated water. 

(g) Test No. 6 Air Entrainment Test. (1) The meter is fed with a 15 ppm mixture until a steady oil content 

reading is obtained and recorded. 

(2) Air is injected into the meter test rig before the sample pump or, in the absence of such pump, 

immediately before any conditioning unit used to prepare the mixture for measurement. Injection must 

be by needle having an orifice dimension not exceeding 0.5 mm in diameter arranged in line with the 

sample flow. The quantity of air injected must be 1 percent of the designated flow rate of the sample 

pump or conditioning unit at the point of injection. 

(3) Air must be delivered to the system by direct injection or pump via a suitable measuring device 

designed to permit a constant controllable flow rate within ±10 percent of the required rate of injection for 

an uninterrupted effective test period of not less than 15 minutes. 

(4) The oil content reading, when steady, is recorded. 

(h) Test No. 7 Oil Particle Size—Centrifugal Pump Test. (1) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture 

until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

(2) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture that has first passed through the centrifugal pump of the test 

rig. The pump is run at one-fourth of its design speed. The oil content reading, when steady, is recorded. 

(3) The steps described in paragraph (h)(2) of this section are repeated with the pump running at onehalf of its design speed and then repeated at its design speed. 

(i) Test No. 8 Temperature Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section are 

repeated. 

(2) The temperature of the mixture is adjusted to 10 °C and the flow continued until a steady oil content 

reading is obtained and recorded. 

(3) The steps described in paragraph (i)(2) of this section are repeated with the temperature of the 

mixture at 65 °C or the highest mixture temperature at which the meter is designed to operate, 

whichever is lower. 

(j) Test No. 9 Sample Pressure or Flow Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section 

are repeated. 

(2) If the meter has a positive displacement mixture pump, the mixture pressure is lowered to one-half of 

the meter's maximum design pressure. If the meter has a centrifugal mixture pump, or is not equipped 

with a mixture pump, the mixture flow rate is reduced to one-half of the meter's design flow rate. The 

reduced flow rate or mixture pressure is maintained until a steady oil content reading is obtained and 

recorded. 

(3) If the meter has a positive displacement mixture pump, the mixture pressure is increased to twice the 

meter's design pressure. If the meter has a centrifugal mixture pump or does not have a mixture pump, 

the mixture flow rate is increased to twice the meter's maximum design flow rate. The increased flow 

rate or mixture pressure is maintained until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

(k) Test No. 10 Shutoff Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section are repeated. 

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(2) The water and metering pumps on the test rig are stopped for 8 hours after which the steps 

described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section are repeated. 

(l) Test No. 11 Supply Voltage Variation Test. (1) The supply voltage to the meter is increased to 110 

percent of its design supply voltage. The meter is then fed a 100 ppm mixture for one hour. At the end of 

the 1-hour period, an oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

(2) The steps described in paragraph (l)(1) of this section are repeated with the supply voltage to the 

meter lowered to 90 percent of its design supply voltage. 

(3) Upon completing the steps described in paragraph (l)(2) of this section, the supply voltage to the 

meter is returned to the design rating. 

(4) The steps described in paragraphs (l)(1) through (l)(3) of this section are repeated varying each 

power supply to the meter in the manner prescribed in those steps for supply voltage. 

(m) Test No. 12 Calibration and Zero Drift Test. (1) The meter is calibrated and zeroed. 

(2) The steps described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section are repeated. 

(3) A 100 ppm mixture is fed to the meter for 8 hours. At the end of the 8-hour period, an oil content 

reading is obtained and recorded. 

(4) The meter is fed with water until a steady oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

(n) Test No. 13 Shutdown and Restart Test. (1) All power to the meter is shutoff for one week. After 1 

week the meter is restarted, zeroed, and calibrated. 

(2) The meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture for 1 hour. An oil content reading is then obtained and 

recorded. 

(3) The meter is fed with water for 1 hour. An oil content reading is then obtained and recorded. 

(4) The steps described in paragraphs (n)(2) and (n)(3) of this section are repeated three additional 

times. During the last hour in which the meter is fed with a 100 ppm mixture, the meter is inclined at an 

angle of 22.5° with the plane of its normal operating position. 

[USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3389, Jan. 16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-33 Bilge alarm: Design specification. 

(a) This section contains requirements that apply to bilge alarms. 

(b) Each bilge alarm must be designed to meet the requirements for an oil content meter in §162.050–25

(b) through (f) and 162.050–25(i), and the requirements in this section. 

(c) Each bilge alarm must have a device that produces a warning signal, and a signal that can be used 

to actuate stop valves in a vessel's fixed piping system, when— 

(1) the oil content of the mixture being measured by the bilge alarm exceeds 15 ppm ±5 ppm, and 

(2) malfunction, breakdown, or other failure of the bilge alarm occurs. 

(d) Each bilge alarm must have a ppm display. Emulsions and/or the type of oil must not affect the ppm 

display. Calibrating the bilge alarm must not be necessary once installed on board the vessel, however, 

onboard testing in accordance with the manufacturer's operating instructions is permitted for the 

purposes of checking instrument drift and repeatability of the instrument reading, as well as the ability to 

re-zero the instrument. The accuracy of the readings must at all times remain within the limits described 

in paragraph (c)(1) of this section. 

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(e) Each bilge alarm must be designed so that it displays each change in oil content of the mixture it is 

measuring within 5 seconds after the change occurs. 

(f) Access to the bilge alarm must require the breaking of a seal, except when— 

(1) Re-zeroing the instrument; 

(2) Checking the instrument drift; or 

(3) Checking the repeatability of the instrument reading. 

(g) Each bilge alarm must activate its alarm whenever clean water is used for cleaning or zeroing 

purposes. 

(h) The bilge alarm must record date, time, alarm status, and operating status of the 15 ppm bilge 

separator. The recording device must also store data for at least 18 months and be able to display or 

print a protocol. In the event the 15 ppm bilge alarm is replaced, means must be provided to ensure the 

data recorded remains available on board for 18 months. 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3391, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-35 Bilge alarm: Approval tests. 

This section contains requirements that apply to bilge alarms. 

(a) Test Conditions. (1) Each test must be conducted under the conditions prescribed for meters in 

§162.050–27(a)(1) through (a)(5), (a)(7), (a)(8), (a)(10), (a)(11), and (a)(13). 

(2) The tests in this section must be performed using test fluids described in §162.050–20. 

(3) The oil content of each sample must be measured using the method described in §162.050–39. 

(b) Test No. 1A Calibration and Zero Test. (1) The bilge alarm is calibrated and zeroed to manufacturer's 

instructions. 

(2) It is then fed with water for 15 minutes and then with a mixture of Test Fluid A and water in the 

following concentrations: 0 ppm, 15 ppm, and the highest oil concentration that can be read on the 

monitor. A sample of the mixture causing actuation of the alarm is taken. The alarm is then fed with 

water for 15 minutes. 

(3) Repeat steps in paragraphs (b)(2) of this section first using Test Fluid B and then again with Test 

Fluid C. Collect samples as required in the test for each run of Test Fluid B and Test Fluid C. 

(4) If the bilge alarm must be calibrated and re-zeroed between test fluids, this must be noted in the test 

report. 

(c) Test No. 2A Contaminant Test. (1) The bilge alarm is fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture of Test 

Fluid B and water. At the end of the 5-minute period an oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

(2) The bilge alarm is then fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and water 

contaminated with a 10 ppm concentration of iron oxide. Any change in the bilge alarm reading during 

the 5 minutes is recorded. 

(3) Repeat steps in paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this section using iron oxide concentrations of 50 ppm 

and 100 ppm. 

(4) The bilge alarm is then fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and water. At the end 

of the 5-minute period an oil content reading is obtained and recorded. 

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(5) The bilge alarm is fed for 5 minutes with a 10 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and fresh water with 6 

percent sodium chloride. Any change in the bilge alarm reading is recorded. 

(d) Test No. 3A Sample Pressure or Flow Test. (1) The bilge alarm is fed with a mixture of Test Fluid B 

and water and the test fluid content of the mixture is increased until the bilge alarm actuates. The ppm 

display is recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation of the alarm is taken. 

(2) If the alarm has a positive displacement mixture pump, the mixture pressure is reduced to one-half of 

the alarm's maximum design pressure. If the alarm has a centrifugal mixture pump or is not equipped 

with a mixture pump, the mixture flow rate is reduced to one-half of the alarm's maximum design flow 

rate. After reduction of pressure or flow rate, the oil content in the mixture is increased until the alarm 

actuates. The ppm display is recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation of the alarm is 

taken. 

(3) If the alarm has a positive displacement mixture pump, the influent pressure is increased to twice the 

alarm's minimum design pressure. If the alarm has a centrifugal mixture pump or if the alarm is not 

equipped with a mixture pump, the influent flow rate is increased to twice the alarm's maximum design 

flow rate. After increasing the pressure or flow rate, the oil content in the mixture is increased until the 

alarm actuates. The ppm display is recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation is taken. 

(e) Test No. 4A Shutoff Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph (d)(1) of this section are repeated. 

(2) The metering and water pumps of the test rig are stopped for 8 hours with the bilge alarm left turned 

on with no other changes made. 

(3) The metering and water pumps are started and the Test Fluid B content of the mixture is increased 

until the bilge alarm actuates. A sample of the mixture causing actuation is taken. The bilge alarm ppm 

display readings before and after the 8-hour period will be recorded. 

(f) Test No. 5A Supply Voltage Variation Test. (1) The supply voltage to the bilge alarm is raised to 110 

percent of its design supply voltage. The bilge alarm is fed with a mixture of Test Fluid B and water and 

the test fluid content of the mixture is increased until the bilge alarm actuates. The ppm display is 

recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation is taken. 

(2) The supply voltage to the alarm is lowered to 90 percent of its design supply voltage. The bilge alarm 

is fed with a mixture of Test Fluid B and water and the test fluid content of the mixture is increased until 

the bilge alarm actuates. The ppm display is recorded and a sample of the mixture causing actuation is 

taken. 

(3) Upon completion of the steps described in paragraph (f)(2) of this section, the supply voltage to the 

alarm is returned to its design value. 

(4) The steps described in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(3) of this section are repeated varying each 

other power supply to the alarm in the manner prescribed in those steps for supply voltage. 

(g) Test No. 6A Calibration and Zero Drift Test. (1) The steps described in paragraph (b)(1) of this 

section are repeated and then the steps in paragraph (d)(1) of this section are repeated. 

(2) The bilge alarm is fed with a 15 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B and water for eight hours and any 

calibration drift is recorded. Samples of the mixture must be taken at the beginning of the test and at 2-

hour intervals until the completion of the 8-hour period. 

(3) Following the steps in paragraph (g)(2) of this section, the bilge alarm must be run on clean, oil-free 

water only and any zero drift must be recorded. 

(h) Test No. 7A Response Time Test. (1) The bilge alarm is fed with a 40 ppm mixture of Test Fluid B 

and water until the bilge alarm actuates. The time of turning on the metering pump of the test rig and the 

time of alarm actuation are recorded. The flow rate on the flow meter of the test rig is also recorded. 

(i) Test No. 8A Shutdown and Restart Test. (1) All power to the bilge alarm is shutoff for 1 week. After 1 

week the alarm is then restarted, zeroed, and calibrated. 

(2) The steps described in paragraph (d)(1) of this section are repeated. Water is then fed to the bilge 

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alarm for 1 hour. 

(3) The steps described in paragraph (i)(2) of this section are repeated seven additional times. During 

the last hour, the alarm must be inclined at an angle of 22.5° with the plane of its normal operating 

position. 

[USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3391, Jan. 16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-37 Vibration test. 

(a) Equipment submitted for Coast Guard approval must first be tested under the conditions prescribed 

in paragraph (b) of this section. The test must be performed at an independent laboratory that has the 

equipment to subject the item under test to the vibrating frequencies and amplitudes prescribed in 

paragraph (b) of this section. The test report submitted with the application for Coast Guard approval 

must be prepared by the laboratory and must contain the test results. 

(b)(1) Each oil content meter and bilge alarm and each control of a separator must be subjected to 

continuous sinusoidal vibration in each of the following directions for a 2 hour period in each direction: 

(i) Vertically up and down; 

(ii) Horizontally from side to side; and 

(iii) Horizontally from end to end. 

(2) The vibrating frequency must be 80 Hz, except that the vibrating frequency of equipment that has a 

resonant frequency between 2 Hz and 80 Hz must be the resonant frequency. If the vibrating frequency 

is between 2 Hz and 13.2 Hz, the displacement amplitude must be ±1 mm. If the vibrating frequency is 

between 13.2 Hz and 80 Hz, the acceleration amplitude must be ± [(.7)(gravity)]. 

(c) After completion of the tests specified in paragraph (b) of this section, a search must again be made 

for resonance and any significant change in the vibration pattern must be noted in the test report. 

[CGD 76–088a, 44 FR 53359, Sept. 13, 1979, as amended by USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3392, Jan. 

16, 2009] 

§ 162.050-39 Measurement of oil content. 

The collection and testing of all samples of oil in water from the required test will be accomplished in 

accordance with ISO 9377–2 (2000), Water Quality—Determination of hydrocarbon oil index-Part 2: 

Method Using solvent extraction and Gas Chromatography (incorporated by reference, see §162.050–

4). 

[USCG–2004–18939, 74 FR 3393, Jan. 16, 2009] 

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