National Welding Supply Association Safety Tip of the Month

February, l999     CyIinders + Heat = Dangerous Combination

Compressed gas cylinders should not be stored in temperatures greater than 125 degrees F.  As heat increases, so does internal pressure. Therefore, cylinders should never be stored near boilers, steam or hot water pipes, etc.  If a cylinder accumulates ice or snow, thaw at room temperature; never apply a localized heat source.

Pressure relief devices are designed to relieve excessive cylinder pressure and, for most welding gases, will relieve the entire contents of a cylinder. However, when intensive localized heat is applied, such as with a torch, metal may weaken to the failure point before the relief device functions. Keep your cylinders away from the immediate welding area where someone could inadvertently direct a flame toward a cylinder.

In manufacture, steel cylinders are heat treated to give them high tensile strength and elasticity to withstand repeated filling. However, when intensive heat, such as with an arc or torch burn, is applied to the cylinder, the steel may become embrittled and/or lose its tensile strength in the area of the burn. This creates an especially dangerous condition for your suppliers filling personnel and the Department of Transportation requires that such cylinders be removed from service. Never strike an arc on the side of a compressed gas cylinder!

Important:

This information is offered by the National Welding Supply Association and your local distributor as general guidance only and may not explain all relevant safety precautions or hazards.

Mike Lopez, NWSA Safety Consultant