Pressurised gases

Advisor

Ms. Isabelle Altorfer

While handling pressurised gases, the following points should be considered:

Transport

  • Use only the designated cart.
  • The protecting cap must be mounted during transport.
  • Never roll or drag a gas bottle on the floor.

In the laboratory

  • Remember that some gases react violently with certain materials.
  • Standing gas cylinders should be safeguarded from tipping with at least a fire-proof chain.
  • No part of the gas cylinder must be exposed to temperatures above 40 C for liquids and 60 C for pressurized gases.
  • The pressure reducing valves should not be left on the bottle, except if used very often.

Valves and fittings

  • Use the correct valve for the gas you're employing (especially for oxygen).
  • Left-hand thread for combustible gases
  • Right-hand thread for incombustible gases

Storage

  • If stored over longer periods of time, pressurised gas cylinders should only be kept in well ventilated, dry and sufficiently fire-proof rooms.
  • A laboratory is not suited for the storage of gas cylinders.
  • Non-flammable fixtures must be in place to prevent tipping of the cylinders.
  • Full and empty bottles should be stored separately. The empty bottles should be marked clearly.

Warning signs

Gas bottle

Downloads