Precautions to Observe When Using Compressed Air & Oxygen Bottles

A 12 liter compressed air cylinder has the same explosive power potential as a hand grenade. Handle compressed air in an oxygen cylinders very carefully when using it in activities such as scuba diving and paint balling and in other uses such as medical care and tire filling. Pay attention to the contents to avoid using the gas for the wrong purposes.

  1. Check the Contents

    • Distinguish the differences among air,oxygen and enriched air (air with oxygen percentages of higher than 21 percent). The contents will be marked on the side of the tank, showing the type mix of gas. Analyze this and check it, especially if you are using it for diving. Levels of oxygen can become toxic when used below certain depths. Oxygen can also act as a catalyst for fire, so use it only with certain seals and equipment that is "oxygen-clean."

    Store the Tanks in a Secure Place

    • Store tanks in open areas, making sure that they are secure to avoid them slipping where the valve could be knocked off. A broken valve could turn a tank into a missile when gas quickly discharges. If for any reason someone drops the tank or does anything else to it that might affect the structural integrity, have it hydrostatically tested by an authorized technician to ensure that it can still hold compressed gas.

    Check the Tank's Working Pressure

    • Air and oxygen tanks have a maximum pressure to which they can be filled . For example 12 liter aluminum scuba cylinders can be filled to 3000 psi/ 200 bar. Fill the tank only to its working pressure. Find the working pressure of the tank stamped on the neck of the bottle.

    Use Correct Methods For Filling the Cylinders

    • Never use uncertified methods to try to fill cylinders with compressed air. Use proper compressors and ensure that all the valves are correctly functioning. If filling with oxygen, make sure that the O-rings are oxygen clean to avoid combustion. Tanks will tend to heat up during filling. Keep them cool by such as putting them in water during filling, so you can put in the maximum amount of gas for the pressure.