Compressed Gas Storage Cylinders

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Compressed gas represents any kind of contained mixture or material with an absolute pressure exceeding 275.8 kPa at 21°C, or any kind of liquid which possesses vapor pressure that exceeds 275.8 kPa at 37.8°C. Compressed gases present several hazards as they are toxic, flammable, and oxidizer. The gas is stored in specifically designed compressed gas cylinder. These cylinders pose other risks in addition to the gas hazards because they contain gas under pressure. Hence, there exists an indispensable need of handling and storing these cylinders carefully.

Compressed Gas Cylinders are made in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. They range from small lecture bottles (primarily used for demonstration purpose), to large cylinders. These cylinders are tested under hydrostatic water pressure when manufactured and undergoes careful visual inspections. Cylinders containing compressed gas shall be stored in areas where the ambient air temperature does not exceed 52°C. This decreases the possibility of the overpressure protection device that releases gas at higher temperatures. Therefore, compressed gas cylinders should be stored out of direct sunlight and away from steam pipes, boilers and any other heat sources.

Compressed gases are used in a variety of processes at instructional and research laboratories, health sciences, fine arts, scientific diving, and welding, but also present a number of hazards. If mishandled, these cylinders may rupture violently, releasing hazardous contents or by becoming dangerous projectiles. Basic guidelines and general procedures to follow for safe storage and handling of compressed gas cylinders are :-

• Always store compresses gas cylinders in an area, which is specifically designated for that purpose, it should be well-ventilated and away from highly combustible materials.

• The cylinders should not be exposed to continuous dampness or any kind of corrosive chemicals or fumes, as corrosion may damage them and cause the valve protection caps to rust or stick.

• Never apply direct heat to these cylinders.

• Keep the cylinders clear of all sparks, electrical equipment or grounding cables and electrical circuits.

• Never permit cylinders to contact live.

• At the time of moving a cylinder, all the valves must be closed, the regulator removed, and the valve cap installed, irrespective of the distance.

• They should be protected from any object that will produce a harmful cut or other abrasion in the surface of the metal.

• They should never be stored near elevators, gangways, and unprotected platform edges or in locations where heavy moving objects may strike them.

• Never refill a cylinder, as mixing of residual gases in a confined area may result in a serious and devastating reaction.

• When the cylinder is not in use the valve protection cap must be in place to protect the valve.

• For cylinders that are not equipped with a valve handle, a wrench shall be provided and kept on the valve in order to facilitate emergency shutoff.

• The cylinders should be stored off the ground on a raised concrete pad or noncombustible rack. Lastly, always wear the prescribed safety equipments that are appropriate for the hazard potential of a compressed gas cylinder.