49 C.F.R. § 230.71
Orifice testing of compressors.
Cite as 49 C.F.R. § 230.71 (2026)
(a)
Frequency of testing.
The compressor or compressors shall be tested for capacity by orifice test as often as conditions may require, but not less frequently than once every 92 service days.
(b)
Orifice testing criteria.
(1) Compressors in common use, as listed in the following table, shall have orifice test criteria as follows:
Make
Compressor size
Single strokes per minute
Diameter of orifice
(in inches)
Air pressure maintained
(in pounds)
Westinghouse
9
1
⁄
2
120
11
⁄
64
60
Westinghouse
11
100
3
⁄
16
60
Westinghouse
150 CFM 8
1
⁄
2
CC
100
9
⁄
32
60
Westinghouse
120 CFM 8
1
⁄
2
100
15
⁄
64
60
New York
2a
120
5
⁄
32
60
New York
6a
100
13
⁄
64
60
New York
5b
100
15
⁄
64
60
Note:
This table shall be used for altitudes to and including 1,000 feet. For altitudes over 1,000 feet the speed of compressor may be increased 5 single strokes per minute for each 1,000 feet increase in altitude.
(2) For compressors not listed in the table in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, the air pressure to be maintained shall be no less than 80 percent of the manufacturer's rated capacity for the compressor.