According to Coast Guard Pollution Prevention Regulations (33 CFR), what is the minimum number of bolts required in a temporarily connected standard ANSI coupling?

The minimum number of bolts required in a temporarily connected standard ANSI coupling, as per Coast Guard Pollution Prevention Regulations (33 CFR), is four bolts. This requirement ensures that the coupling can maintain a secure connection under operational pressures and prevent leaks, which is crucial for pollution prevention efforts.

The use of four bolts allows for enhanced stability and uniform distribution of forces around the connection, reducing the chance of failure due to uneven stress or vibration during operations. This configuration is designed to meet safety and environmental standards, ensuring that the risk of spills or releases of hazardous materials into the environment is minimized during transfer operations.

While other options present a higher number of bolts, which might offer additional security in specific applications, the regulation specifically mandates four bolts as the standard for temporarily connected couplings. This is both a practical and regulatory benchmark designed for efficient operation while maintaining environmental protection standards.