55
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 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 is the float which closes when 80% of capacity
has been reached. This permits expansion space in tank when
temperature rises.
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 while transporting to and from
the propane 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.
A new container MUST be “purged” before placing into service and MUST
NEVER BE OVERFILLED. Purging is an operation performed by your
dealer or propane agency to remove any atmospheric air. As an owner,
you need not be concerned regarding this procedure unless you permit
the top valve to be in OPEN position when empty and unhooked to
container.
Two overfill devices are built into the valve to prevent overfilling of the
container. First, is the small brass “knob” or “screw” inside of the valve.
Thi
s “10% valve” must be open when filling, allowing air to escape. When
the container reaches 80% of the correct capacity, liquid appears.
Secondly, containers with OPD valves have a float on the inside that
automatically shuts off liquid flow when the 80% capacity has been
reached.
OPD
Cylinder
Valve
