Before filling, what must be done to new cylinders that have not been vacuum purged?

The requirement for new cylinders that have not been vacuum purged to be purged of air or moisture before filling is crucial for safety and operational integrity. When cylinders are manufactured, they may contain air and moisture inside. If these contaminants remain within the cylinder, they can lead to dangerous conditions during the filling process and operation.

Air, when mixed with propane, can create explosive mixtures. Moisture can also lead to corrosion inside the cylinder, which can weaken its structure and potentially cause leaks or failures. Purging the cylinder of these substances ensures that the propane fills the cylinder in a controlled and safe environment devoid of any flammable or corrosive contaminants. This step is essential in avoiding accidents and ensuring the reliability of the cylinder's performance in service.

While filling the cylinder with propane, inspecting for leaks, and safely storing the cylinders are all important aspects of the overall safety protocol for handling LP gas, purging air and moisture is a critical step that must be completed first prior to any filling activities.