Safe Use of the Cylinder

After securing the cylinder, the cylinder cap can be removed to expose the cylinder valve. Usually a new cylinder will have a dust plug installed in the valve outlet. This plug can be removed after checking to make sure that the cylinder valve is in the closed position. 

Before discharging the contents of the cylinder, it is important to check that the connection to the cylinder valve is leak-tight. Many gases will also require purging the air that remains inside the cylinder connection to insure safety and process purity. 

These operations require special valve arrangements or purge systems. All equipment connected to the cylinder should be carefully leak-checked prior to use and all materials in the system should be compatible with the gas being used. The cylinder valve should be opened veiy slowly to gradually introduce pressure into the system. Some cylinders come with cylinder valves that can be actuated from a remote location, using a source 

After the cylinder has been used, the equipment can be disconnected, after first closing the cylinder valve and performing any purge procedures necessary for safety. It is preferable to leave some positive pressure inside the cylinder to help prevent atmospheric intrusion. Always replace any valve outlet plugs and the cylinder cap supplied with the cylinder. Maik or label the cylinder empty or use a standard DOT empty label before returning the cylinder to the supplier. 

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