The Importance of Cylinder Hydrostatic Testing for Gas Cylinder Maintenance

What are Gas Cylinders?

Storing gas requires specifically designed procedures and apparatus, the most commonly used apparatus being gas cylinders. Gas cylinders are steel vessels that keep gas densely stored without the possibility of leaks. Leaks are minimised by tight seals on the cylinders, each of which features a valve that allows gas to be released in small, controlled amounts.

What Is Cylinder Hydrostatic Testing?

In order to ensure that cylinders continue to store gas safely, regular hydrostatic testing must take place. Hydrostatic testing refers to the process by which pressure vessels (including cylinders) are checked for strength and leaks. Hydrostatic testing involves filling a cylinder with water, removing the air from the cylinder, and applying pressure that exceeds the pressure limit specified within a cylinder’s design. Carrying out hydrostatic testing will expose any leaks, weaknesses or faulty/damaged parts that may require repairs.

Regularly testing gas cylinders helps ensure that they will not fail under the pressures of real-world settings. This is especially important for gas cylinders as they often have life-saving uses/real-world applications. Cylinders can be used within breathing apparatus for those participating in scuba activities, for medical purposes and for fire extinguishing demands. For cylinders that are used in these settings, testing is vital to the successful provision of emergency support. Failing to test these cylinders could have life-threatening effects on those within and in close proximity to these contexts.

Safety Concerns and Measures for Gas Fire Suppression Systems

When it comes to the storage and handling of any hazardous substance, it is important to account for and manage potential risks. Generally, high-pressure cylinders offer a safe storage solution for hazardous substances. However, the inherent dangers of such substances (carbon dioxide, propane, butane etc.) remain a cause for concern. In addition to the substances themselves, the high levels of pressure present within cylinders can also present danger. Other dangers of incorrect handling include:

Fire or Explosion – the highly flammable nature of many contained substances creates a notable fire risk. To minimise the risk of fire or explosion, handlers should ensure that a cylinder is not exposed to open flame or extreme heat. In addition to causing fire, subsequent explosions could also spread dangerous shrapnel around a space.

Valve Breakage– Should a valve become damaged, a cylinder can become uncontrolled. Uncontrolled cylinders pose a substantial risk of harm to a user or those in the surrounding area.

Gas Leaks – As previously noted, the substances stored by cylinders are often hazardous. Gas inhalation poses a serious risk to human life. Regular maintenance and hydrostatic testing helps reduce leaks and consequent fatality.

But how should cylinders be handled to prevent such hazards? In addition to regular inspection and testing, steps can be taken to reduce the risks associated with handling gas cylinders. These include not dropping or moving cylinders without due, wearing PPE, using chains or protective guards to secure the cylinder and regularly checking valves. It is also recommended that a fire extinguisher is always present when a cylinder is being transported.