55
Propane fuel is stored in liquid form under high pressure in special
containers. Boiling point is (minus) -44°F, the temperature when vapor
ceases to flow. Fuel will change to vapor when released from the
container. Appliances are not designed to operate with liquid. Liquid will
damage O-rings in valves and also leave sticky, oily residue causing poor
or no operation in the regulator.
For every 10 degree increase in temperature, the pressure of propane in
container rises 1.5%. Example, fill a container at 0 degrees in the north,
then go south to 80 degrees, your container is now filled at 92%, a
potential problem with the 10% valve spewing out propane vapor.
Propane Container
The propane cylinder is a D.O.T. approved
container to hold liquid under high pressure,
normally a 20 or 30 pound capacity.
The open/closing valve, referred to as an OPD
cylinder valve, is to be closed at all times unless
hooked up to a propane system or when filling
the container.
Valve assembly actually has 3 valves in one
body.
1. Main pass thru portion to fill container and draw propane out is
controlled by upper 3-sided knob on top.
2. A small screw on the side of main body referred to as the 10%
valve which allows air to be released and indicates when
container is filled to 80% capacity.
3. Incoming positive seal valve MUST be pushed inward with fill
nozzle or by POL fitting to draw vapor out for appliance use.
On the bottom, inside of container is the float which closes when 80% of
capacity has been reached. This permits expansion space in tank when
temperature rises. See section on main hoses.
At any point a container is disconnected, BE SURE to install the
“dust
cap” over valve entry (if so equipped).
Whenever the container is detached from the propane system, DO NOT
allow the cylinder to move or roll around during transportation to and from
the gas supplier.
Servicing and Filling Propane Containers
Filling a propane container must be done carefully and correctly. Only a
qualified person, properly trained on inspection, filling and safety
procedures, should fill containers with propane only.
OPD
Cylinder
