Compressed Gas Cylinder Storage
General Storage
Appropriate firefighting, personnel safety and first aid equipment should be available in case of emergencies. Ensure adequate personnel are trained in the use of this equipment. Follow all federal, state and local regulations concerning the storage of compressed gas cylinders. Refer to the Compressed Gas Association (CGA) pamphlet P-1 for further information.
Storage Area
Store gas cylinders in a ventilated and well-lit area away from combustible materials. Separate gases by type and store in assigned locations that can be readily identified. Store cylinders containing flammable gases separated from oxidizer cylinders and other oxidants by a fire-resistant barrier with a minimum height of 5' and (having a fire-resistance rating of at least a half hour) or locate them at least 20 feet (6 meters) apart from each other. Poison, cryogenic and inert gases should be stored separately. Labels, decals or other cylinder content identification should not be altered or removed from the gas cylinder. Cylinders should also be stored where they can be protected from tampering by unauthorized personnel.
Storage Area Conditions
Storage areas should be located away from sources of excess heat, open flame or ignition, and not located in closed or subsurface areas. The area should be dry, cool and well ventilated. A hood is not a safe storage area except for when the cylinder is actually in use. Outdoor storage should be above grade, dry and protected from the extremes of weather.
Securing Cylinders in Storage
The risk of a cylinder falling over and possibly shearing off its valve demands that a cylinder always be held in place with a chain or another type of fastener such as bench or wall clamp. While in storage, cylinder valve or SCANDINA™ protection caps MUST be firmly in place.
Cylinder Temperature Exposure
Cylinder temperature should not be permitted to exceed 125°F (52°C). Steel cylinders are more durable than aluminum cylinders. They are designed for high-pressure and more corrosive products. They should not be stored near steam pipelines or exposed to direct sunlight. Aluminum cylinders are used for increased stability of mixtures containing certain components. They can be damaged from exposure to temperatures in excess of 350°F (177°C). These extremes weaken the metal walls and the cylinders begin to lose their strength. Do not apply any heating device that will heat any part of the cylinder above 125°F (52°C). Over heating can cause the cylinder to rupture.
Storing Empty Cylinders
Arrange the cylinder storage area so that old stock is used first. Empty cylinders should be stored separately and identified with clear markings. Return empty cylinders promptly. Some pressure should be left in a depleted cylinder to prevent air suck-back that would allow moisture and contaminants to enter the cylinder.