Media resource
Learn the latest Yongan cylinder news and product news and so on
Gas Cylinders: A Comprehensive Guide
Date：2025.01.17
Types of Gas Cylinders
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Cylinders
- LPG cylinders are commonly seen in households, especially in areas where natural gas pipelines are not available. LPG mainly consists of propane and butane. These gases are stored in a liquid state under pressure in the cylinder. When the valve is opened, the liquid LPG vaporizes and can be used for cooking on gas stoves or heating water in boilers. The blue - colored LPG cylinders are a familiar sight in many backyards or kitchens.
- Oxygen Cylinders
- In the medical field, oxygen cylinders are crucial. They provide a supply of breathable oxygen to patients who have difficulty breathing due to various medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or after a serious injury. Oxygen cylinders are also used in welding and cutting processes in industries. These cylinders are usually green in color and are filled with highly compressed oxygen gas.
- Acetylene Cylinders
- Acetylene cylinders are specifically designed for use in welding and metal - cutting operations. Acetylene is a highly flammable gas, and to store it safely, the cylinder contains a porous material soaked in acetone. Acetylene dissolves in the acetone under pressure. When needed, the gas is released from the solution, and it is used in combination with oxygen to create a high - temperature flame for welding and cutting metals. Acetylene cylinders are typically maroon in color.
Construction and Safety Features
- Cylinder Construction
- Gas cylinders are made from high - strength materials, usually steel or aluminum. The steel cylinders are known for their durability and ability to withstand high pressures. Aluminum cylinders, on the other hand, are lighter, which makes them more portable, especially in applications where mobility is a key factor, such as in some medical or small - scale industrial uses.
- Safety Valves
- All gas cylinders are equipped with safety valves. These valves are designed to release excess pressure in case the internal pressure of the cylinder exceeds a safe limit. For example, in case of a fire near an LPG cylinder, the rising temperature could cause the pressure inside the cylinder to increase. The safety valve would then open, releasing some of the gas, thus preventing a potentially dangerous explosion.
- Regulators
- A regulator is an essential part of the gas cylinder setup. It controls the flow of gas from the cylinder and reduces the high - pressure gas inside the cylinder to a lower, more manageable pressure for the end - use. For instance, in a welding setup, the regulator ensures that the acetylene and oxygen gases are delivered at the correct pressure ratios for a stable and efficient welding process.
Handling and Storage
- Handling
- When handling gas cylinders, it is crucial to be careful. Cylinders should be transported upright and secured to prevent them from falling and getting damaged. Dropping a gas cylinder can cause the valve to break, leading to a gas leak. In industrial settings, special trolleys or forklifts are used to move large and heavy gas cylinders.
- Storage
- Gas cylinders should be stored in a well - ventilated area, away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and flammable materials. LPG cylinders, for example, should be stored outdoors in a dedicated storage area with proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of gas in case of a leak. Oxygen cylinders should be stored separately from flammable gas cylinders to avoid any potential fire or explosion hazards.