The Dangers of LPG Cylinders and How to Keep Them Safe
24 February 2022The power sources for cooking, heating, and other similar activities have become abundant over time. However, one specific power source that remains today comes from liquid petroleum gas or LPG.
LPG is a flammable mixture of hydrocarbon gases that serve as a common power or fuel source for cooking and heating. It can also be used as backup power for generators and engine fuel. It is often stored inside durable cylinders to ensure that it does not leak and generate harmful effects to people nearby. Normally, LPG cylinders are installed alongside gas fireplaces, portable heaters, grills, cooktops, and ovens to make them operational.
The LPG itself is flammable and dangerous, which is why LPG cylinders must be installed and used appropriately. Without following specific measures, LPG cylinders can lead to accidents that can be costly, damaging, and life-threatening.
LPG Cylinders Require Proper Handling
LPG cylinders are designed to keep the LPG intact. Hence, they must be made from materials that can be effective in conducting such functions.
For LPG cylinders to be effective, the materials used must boast high tensile and compressive strength to ensure proper storage of pressurised gases. For years, steel has been maximised to produce LPG cylinders. However, the material is believed to be heavy. It can likewise corrode. As an alternative, manufacturers of LPG cylinders have started to adopt aluminium as their primary material since it is lighter, corrosion-resistant, and recyclable.
No matter what their materials are, LPG cylinders would still require proper handling. Without proper installation and handling, LPG might easily leak, leading to suffocation hazards and cold burns. It might even cause fire and explosion.
Safe Fitting and Use of LPG Cylinders
Before LPG cylinders are installed, they must be transported safely first to prevent posing any safety risk. When transporting the LPG cylinders, professionals are expected to secure and strap them in an upright position to avoid shaking their content. They would likewise ensure that the main cylinder valves of these vessels are turned off appropriately. They must also place the cylinders in an open area.
The installation of LPG cylinders and their accompanying components are then done by professionals to ensure that everything is in place. Professionals do not only install these cylinders, but they also check and assess any presence of leaks and issues that could be harmful and dangerous along the way. When installing the LPG cylinders, they must be attached with approved or certified hoses and fittings. The valves must then be assessed for leaks. Leaks may be identified if a specific odour is detected. Leaks are also present if bubbles are formed once the connections are sprayed with soapy water.
As for the usage of LPG cylinders, their surroundings must possess adequate ventilation to prevent building up pressure. They must also be used away from heat, sparks, and flames.
Professional LPG Cylinder Installation
To ensure proper LPG cylinder installation, you can contact us at Redrock Contracting.
We offer a wide range of industrial and commercial services that include complex gas and compressed air installations, air conditioning and mechanical services, car park exhaust ductwork, factory cladding, clean rooms, lab and coolroom installation, industrial and commercial split, and ducted and evaporative cooling.
Optimized by: Netwizard SEO
