A Master Meter System is defined by the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) as a natural gas pipeline system for distributing natural gas for resale within areas such as a mobile home park, housing project, or apartment complex, where the operator purchases metered gas from an outside source. The natural gas system supplies the ultimate consumer, who either purchases the gas directly through a meter on the property, or by other means such as service included as part of the rent.
Chapman Engineering personnel visit Master Meter facilities all over Texas to inspect, survey, and train property personnel about their natural gas systems. Federal and State regulations require a broad range of inspections and specialized training intended to assure the integrity of natural gas systems and to document their operations and maintenance. The goal of these activities is to protect the welfare of residents at the properties, the property investment, and property owners from any liability.
Most natural gas systems have metal piping and/or metal pipe risers (with poly distribution lines) to the pressure regulators. Any metal in contact with soil or water will be more susceptible to corrosion and needs cathodic protection inspections on an annual basis to meet the requirements set by the Railroad Commission of Texas. An annual cathodic protection test, which involves taking "pipe to soil" readings, and conducting an annual gas leakage survey, will show whether the gas piping is being protected and also show how well the cathodic protection system is working. Testing is always done to NACE International standards.
For more information regarding Master Meter Systems, see the Railroad Commission of Texas website: http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/pipeline-safety/master-meter/