20 lb propane tank safety valve free sample

The safety relief valve is one of the most important and vital valves on any LP Gas container. All propane tanks and cylinders are required by law to be fitted with pressure relief devices designed to relieve excess pressure. The function of a safety relief valve is to keep a propane tank from rupturing in the unlikely event of excessive pressure buildup. Propane tank relief valves are also known as pop off valves, pressure venting valves or relief valves.

Relief valves are held in the closed position by the force of a powerful spring. As long as the pressure inside the tank is less than that of the spring, the valve will remain closed. If tank pressure rises to that of the spring, the valve will open resulting in a hissing sound outside the tank. If the pressure in the tank rises significantly higher than that of the spring, the valve will fully open. When the valve fully opens, it initially makes a loud pop followed by a blast of released propane gas. Once the pressure is released and the tank pressure falls below that of the spring, the valve closes.

Most propane tanks in residential and commercial service have internal safety relief valves. The reason for an internal valve as opposed to an external pressure relief valve is it presents less of an obstruction when moving the tank. Internal relief valves are generally placed near the end of the propane tank on above ground containers.

Found primarily on older tanks, external relief valves operate in the same manner as an internal relief valve with the spring mechanism being outside the propane tank itself. Relief valves on multvalves are always fitted with external safety relief valves. Older tanks with an external relief valve installed on the container are generally replaced with internal pressure relief valves, provided they are connected to a dedicated tank opening specifically designed for the placement of the relief valve.

Because the safety relief valve performs such a vital role in the protection of the propane tank, it should be maintained and repaired by licensed propane professionals only. Do not ever look into a relief valve or stand over it.

A protective cover should be placed over the relief valve to ensure proper operation. If the valve has debris in the upper mechanism of the relief valve and it opens, the debris may cause the valve to remain open resulting in a potentially dangerous situation and/or excessive loss of propane. A simple protective relief valve cover can be made from a plastic bag fastened around the external portion of the valve with a rubber band.

If a you encounter a relief valve that seems to be "hissing" (opened to relieve pressure) do not tap it or mess with it. If the tank has been recently filled in hot weather and the face gauge reads over 80 or 85%, spray some water from a hose on the tank. This may cool it down and reduce the expansion of the liquid in the tank. Call your propane company immediately and inform them of the situation.

Pictured here is a relief valve that was apparently leaking. Instead of calling the propane company to replace the valve, the customer decided to fix the problem himself. Using a soldering iron, he soldered the leak until it stopped leaking. In the process of "repairing" the leak, the customer completely sealed the relief valve in a closed position placing himself and his family in a very dangerous situation.

In this type of situation, a relief valve that is sealed shut will not allow the tank to vent excess pressure if it is overfilled or the pressure inside the tank exceeds the working pressure of the container. In a case where the tank is unable to vent to the outside, the tank is subject to rupturing causing more harm and damage than money saved by trying to fix it yourself. Let the propane company or LPG professional handle any problems with thesafety relief valve.

One feature you need to learn more about is the tank’s safety relief valve. All propane tanks, including the cylinders you use for your grill, are required by law to have pressure relief devices that allow for the release of excess pressure inside the tank.

The safety relief valve is designed to protect your propane tank from rupturing in case excess pressure builds up in the tank. It is also called a pop-off valve, pressure-venting valve, or a relief valve.

The safety relief valve is kept closed by a very strong spring as long as the pressure inside the tank is at a safe level. If the pressure in the tank reaches the same amount of pressure of the spring, the safety relief valve is opened. If that happens, you’ll hear a hissing sound coming from the tank as pressure is dissipated. In instances where the pressure in the tank is much higher than that of the spring, the valve will fully open. You’ll hear a pop if that occurs.

Once the pressure is down below the pressure of the spring, the valve closes on its own. If the valve pops open, it may need to be replaced. DO NOT attempt to repair or replace this on your own. This job requires a professional. Contact us to help.

That’s why, when we deliver your propane, we fill your tank to 80% full. You may have noticed that and wondered if it was a mistake. It’s intentional. That remaining 20% of space in your tank remains empty so the propane has space to safely expand in warm or hot conditions.

For safe, expert propane tank installation, Boehlke Bottled Gas can’t be beat! Contact us today for your new propane tank. And don’t forget to ask about our reliable propane delivery!

Container assembly - An assembly consisting essentially of the container and fittings for all container openings, including shutoff valves, excess flow valves, liquid-level gaging devices, safety relief devices, and protective housing.

“Liquified petroleum gases” - “LPG” and “LP-Gas” - Any material which is composed predominantly of any of the following hydrocarbons, or mixtures of them; propane, propylene, butanes (normal butane or iso-butane), and butylenes.

Movable fuel storage tenders or farm carts - Containers not in excess of 1,200 gallons water capacity, equipped with wheels to be towed from one location of usage to another. They are basically nonhighway vehicles, but may occasionally be moved over public roads or highways. They are used as a fuel supply for farm tractors, construction machinery and similar equipment.

Systems - an assembly of equipment consisting essentially of the container or containers, major devices such as vaporizers, safety relief valves, excess flow valves, regulators, and piping connecting such parts.

Each system utilizing DOT containers in accordance with 49 CFR part 178 shall have its container valves, connectors, manifold valve assemblies, and regulators approved.

In systems utilizing containers of over 2,000 gallons water capacity, each regulator, container valve, excess flow valve, gaging device, and relief valve installed on or at the container, shall have its correctness as to design, construction, and performance determined by listing by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Refer to § 1910.7 for definition of nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Welding to the shell, head, or any other part of the container subject to internal pressure, shall be done in compliance with the code under which the tank was fabricated. Other welding is permitted only on saddle plates, lugs, or brackets attached to the container by the tank manufacturer.

With marking indicating the maximum level to which the container may be filled with liquid at temperatures between 20 °F. and 130 °F., except on containers provided with fixed maximum level indicators or which are filled by weighing. Markings shall be increments of not more than 20 °F. This marking may be located on the liquid level gaging device.

The minimum separation between liquefied petroleum gas containers and flammable liquid tanks shall be 20 feet, and the minimum separation between a container and the centerline of the dike shall be 10 feet. The foregoing provision shall not apply when LP-Gas containers of 125 gallons or less capacity are installed adjacent to Class III flammable liquid tanks of 275 gallons or less capacity.

Valves, fittings, and accessories connected directly to the container including primary shutoff valves, shall have a rated working pressure of at least 250 p.s.i.g. and shall be of material and design suitable for LP-Gas service. Cast iron shall not be used for container valves, fittings, and accessories. This does not prohibit the use of container valves made of malleable or nodular iron.

Connections to containers, except safety relief connections, liquid level gaging devices, and plugged openings, shall have shutoff valves located as close to the container as practicable.

Excess flow valves, where required shall close automatically at the rated flows of vapor or liquid as specified by the manufacturer. The connections or line including valves, fittings, etc., being protected by an excess flow valve shall have a greater capacity than the rated flow of the excess flow valve.

Liquid level gaging devices which are so constructed that outward flow of container contents shall not exceed that passed by a No. 54 drill size opening, need not be equipped with excess flow valves.

Openings from container or through fittings attached directly on container to which pressure gage connection is made, need not be equipped with shutoff or excess flow valves if such openings are restricted to not larger than No. 54 drill size opening.

Except as provided in paragraph (c)(5)(i)(b) of this section, excess flow and back pressure check valves where required by this section shall be located inside of the container or at a point outside where the line enters the container; in the latter case, installation shall be made in such manner that any undue strain beyond the excess flow or back pressure check valve will not cause breakage between the container and such valve.

Pipe, except as provided in paragraphs (e)(6)(i) and (g)(10)(iii), of this section shall be wrought iron or steel (black or galvanized), brass, copper, or aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloy pipe shall be at least Schedule 40 in accordance with the specifications for Aluminum Alloy Pipe, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) H38.7-1969 (ASTM, B241-69), which is incorporated by reference as specified in § 1910.6, except that the use of alloy 5456 is prohibited and shall be suitably marked at each end of each length indicating compliance with American National Standard Institute Specifications. Aluminum Alloy pipe shall be protected against external corrosion when it is in contact with dissimilar metals other than galvanized steel, or its location is subject to repeated wetting by such liquids as water (except rain water), detergents, sewage, or leaking from other piping, or it passes through flooring, plaster, masonry, or insulation. Galvanized sheet steel or pipe, galvanized inside and out, may be considered suitable protection. The maximum nominal pipe size for aluminum pipe shall be three-fourths inch and shall not be used for pressures exceeding 20 p.s.i.g. Aluminum alloy pipe shall not be installed within 6 inches of the ground.

Aluminum alloy tubing shall be protected against external corrosion when it is in contact with dissimilar metals other than galvanized steel, or its location is subject to repeated wetting by liquids such as water (except rainwater), detergents, sewage, or leakage from other piping, or it passes through flooring, plaster, masonry, or insulation. Galvanized sheet steel or pipe, galvanized inside and out, may be considered suitable protection. The maximum outside diameter for aluminum alloy tubing shall be three-fourths inch and shall not be used for pressures exceeding 20 p.s.i.g. Aluminum alloy tubing shall not be installed within 6 inches of the ground.

All materials such as valve seats, packing, gaskets, diaphragms, etc., shall be of such quality as to be resistant to the action of liquefied petroleum gas under the service conditions to which they are subjected.

Hose and hose connections on the low-pressure side of the regulator or reducing valve shall be designed for a bursting pressure of not less than 125 p.s.i.g. or five times the set pressure of the relief devices protecting that portion of the system, whichever is higher.

The shutoff valve for an appliance connected by hose shall be in the metal pipe or tubing and not at the appliance end of the hose. When shutoff valves are installed close to each other, precautions shall be taken to prevent operation of the wrong valve.

Every container except those constructed in accordance with DOT specifications and every vaporizer (except motor fuel vaporizers and except vaporizers described in paragraph (b)(11)(ii)(c) of this section and paragraph (d)(4)(v)(a) of this section) whether heated by artificial means or not, shall be provided with one or more safety relief valves of spring-loaded or equivalent type. These valves shall be arranged to afford free vent to the outer air with discharge not less than 5 feet horizontally away from any opening into the building which is below such discharge. The rate of discharge shall be in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (b)(10)(ii) or (b)(10)(iii) of this section in the case of vaporizers.

Minimum required rate of discharge in cubic feet per minute of air at 120 percent of the maximum permitted start to discharge pressure for safety relief valves to be used on containers other than those constructed in accordance with DOT specification shall be as follows:

Valves not marked “Air” have flow rate marking in cubic feet per minute of liquefied petroleum gas. These can be converted to ratings in cubic feet per minute of air by multiplying the liquefied petroleum gas ratings by factors listed below. Air flow ratings can be converted to ratings in cubic feet per minute of liquefied petroleum gas by dividing the air ratings by the factors listed below.

Container and vaporizer safety relief valves shall be set to start-to-discharge, with relation to the design pressure of the container, in accordance with Table H-26.

Safety relief devices used with systems employing containers other than those constructed according to DOT specifications shall be so constructed as to discharge at not less than the rates shown in paragraph (b)(10)(ii) of this section, before the pressure is in excess of 120 percent of the maximum (not including the 10 percent referred to in paragraph (b)(10)(iv) of this section) permitted start to discharge pressure setting of the device.

In certain locations sufficiently sustained high temperatures prevail which require the use of a lower vapor pressure product to be stored or the use of a higher designed pressure vessel in order to prevent the safety valves opening as the result of these temperatures. As an alternative the tanks may be protected by cooling devices such as by spraying, by shading, or other effective means.

Safety relief valves shall be arranged so that the possibility of tampering will be minimized. If pressure setting or adjustment is external, the relief valves shall be provided with approved means for sealing adjustment.

Shutoff valves shall not be installed between the safety relief devices and the container, or the equipment or piping to which the safety relief device is connected except that a shutoff valve may be used where the arrangement of this valve is such that full required capacity flow through the safety relief device is always afforded.

Each container safety relief valve used with systems covered by paragraphs (d), (e), (g), and (h) of this section, except as provided in paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this section shall be plainly and permanently marked with the following: “Container Type” of the pressure vessel on which the valve is designed to be installed; the pressure in p.s.i.g. at which the valve is set to discharge; the actual rate of discharge of the valve in cubic feet per minute of air at 60 °F. and 14.7 p.s.i.a.; and the manufacturer"s name and catalog number, for example: T200-250-4050 AIR - indicating that the valve is suitable for use on a Type 200 container, that it is set to start to discharge at 250 p.s.i.g.; and that its rate of discharge is 4,050 cubic feet per minute of air as determined in subdivision (ii) of this subparagraph.

Safety relief valve assemblies, including their connections, shall be of sufficient size so as to provide the rate of flow required for the container on which they are installed.

A hydrostatic relief valve shall be installed between each pair of shut-off valves on liquefied petroleum gas liquid piping so as to relieve into a safe atmosphere. The start-to-discharge pressure setting of such relief valves shall not be in excess of 500 p.s.i.g. The minimum setting on relief valves installed in piping connected to other than DOT containers shall not be lower than 140 percent of the container relief valve setting and in piping connected to DOT containers not lower than 400 p.s.i.g. The start-to-discharge pressure setting of such a relief valve, if installed on the discharge side of a pump, shall be greater than the maximum pressure permitted by the recirculation device in the system.

The discharge from any safety relief device shall not terminate in or beneath any building, except relief devices covered by paragraphs (b)(6)(i) (a) through (e) of this section, or paragraphs (c) (4)(i) or (5) of this section.

Container safety relief devices and regulator relief vents shall be located not less than five (5) feet in any direction from air openings into sealed combustion system appliances or mechanical ventilation air intakes.

Vaporizers shall have, at or near the discharge, a safety relief valve providing an effective rate of discharge in accordance with paragraph (b)(10)(iii) of this section, except as provided in paragraph (d)(4)(v)(a), of this section.

Gas-fired heating systems supplying heat exclusively for vaporization purposes shall be equipped with automatic safety devices to shut off the flow of gas to main burners, if the pilot light should fail.

Vaporizers of less than 1 quart capacity heated by the ground or surrounding air, need not be equipped with safety relief valves provided that adequate tests demonstrate that the assembly is safe without safety relief valves.

Vaporizers may be connected to the liquid section or the gas section of the storage container, or both; but in any case there shall be at the container a manually operated valve in each connection to permit completely shutting off when desired, of all flow of gas or liquid from container to vaporizer.

Vaporizers with capacity not exceeding 35 gallons per hour shall be located at least 5 feet from container shutoff valves. Vaporizers having capacity of more than 35 gallons but not exceeding 100 gallons per hour shall be located at least 10 feet from the container shutoff valves. Vaporizers having a capacity greater than 100 gallons per hour shall be located at least 15 feet from container shutoff valves.

Vaporizers shall have at or near the discharge, a safety relief valve providing an effective rate of discharge in accordance with paragraph (b)(10)(iii) of this section. The relief valve shall be so located as not to be subjected to temperatures in excess of 140 °F.

Vaporizers shall be equipped with automatic safety devices to shut off the flow of gas to main burners if the pilot light should fail. When the flow through the pilot exceeds 2,000 B.t.u. per hour, the pilot also shall be equipped with an automatic safety device to shut off the flow of gas to the pilot should the pilot flame be extinguished.

Tank heaters shall be permanently marked with the name of the manufacturer, the rated B.t.u. input to the burner, and the maximum vaporizing capacity in gallons per hour.

Tank heaters shall be equipped with an automatic safety device to shut off the flow of gas to main burners, if the pilot light should fail. When flow through pilot exceeds 2,000 B.t.u. per hour, the pilot also shall be equipped with an automatic safety device to shut off the flow of gas to the pilot should the pilot flame be extinguished.

Pressure regulating and pressure reducing equipment if located within 10 feet of a direct fired tank heater shall be separated from the open flame by a substantially airtight noncombustible partition.

The following minimum distances shall be maintained between a storage tank heated by a direct fired tank heater and the nearest important building or group of buildings:

No direct fired tank heater shall raise the product pressure within the storage container over 75 percent of the pressure set out in the second column of Table H-31.

The vaporizer section of vaporizer-burners shall be protected by a hydrostatic relief valve. The relief valve shall be located so as not to be subjected to temperatures in excess of 140 °F. The start-to-discharge pressure setting shall be such as to protect the components involved, but not less than 250 p.s.i.g. The discharge shall be directed upward and away from component parts of the equipment and away from operating personnel.

Vaporizer-burners shall be equipped with automatic safety devices to shut off the flow of gas to the main burner and pilot in the event the pilot is extinguished.

Except as provided in paragraph (b)(12)(iii) of this section, any container including mobile cargo tanks and portable tank containers regardless of size or construction, shipped under DOT jurisdiction or constructed in accordance with 49 CFR chapter I Specifications shall be charged according to 49 CFR chapter I requirements.

A shutoff valve shall be installed in each intermediate branch line where it takes off the main line and shall be readily accessible. A shutoff valve shall also be placed at the appliance end of the intermediate branch line. Such shutoff valve shall be upstream of any flexible connector used with the appliance.

Suitable excess flow valves shall be installed in the container outlet line supplying liquid LP-Gas to the building. A suitable excess flow valve shall be installed immediately downstream of each shutoff valve. Suitable excess flow valves shall be installed where piping size is reduced and shall be sized for the reduced size piping.

Pumping systems, when equipped with a positive displacement pump, shall include a recirculating device which shall limit the differential pressure on the pump under normal operating conditions to the maximum differential pressure rating of the pump. The discharge of the pumping system shall be protected so that pressure does not exceed 350 p.s.i.g. If a recirculation system discharges into the supply tank and contains a manual shutoff valve, an adequate secondary safety recirculation system shall be incorporated which shall have no means of rendering it inoperative. Manual shutoff valves in recirculation systems shall be kept open except during an emergency or when repairs are being made to the system.

A backflow check valve, excess-flow valve, or a shutoff valve with means of remote closing, to protect against uncontrolled discharge of LP-Gas from storage tank piping shall be installed close to the point where the liquid piping and hose or swing joint pipe is connected.

All variable gaging devices shall be arranged so that the maximum liquid level for butane, for a 50-50 mixture of butane and propane, and for propane, to which the container may be charged is readily determinable. The markings indicating the various liquid levels from empty to full shall be on the system nameplate or gaging device or part may be on the system nameplate and part on the gaging device. Dials of magnetic or rotary gages shall show whether they are for cylindrical or spherical containers and whether for aboveground or underground service. The dials of gages intended for use only on aboveground containers of over 1,200 gallons water capacity shall be so marked.

Gaging devices that require bleeding of the product to the atmosphere, such as the rotary tube, fixed tube, and slip tube, shall be designed so that the bleed valve maximum opening is not larger than a No. 54 drill size, unless provided with excess flow valve.

It is impossible to set out in a table the length of a fixed dip tube for various capacity tanks because of the varying tank diameters and lengths and because the tank may be installed either in a vertical or horizontal position. Knowing the maximum permitted filling volume in gallons, however, the length of the fixed tube can be determined by the use of a strapping table obtained from the container manufacturer. The length of the fixed tube should be such that when its lower end touches the surface of the liquid in the container, the contents of the container will be the maximum permitted volume as determined by the following formula:

[(100 (gals.) × 42 (filling density from subparagraph (12) of this paragraph)) ÷ (0.510 × 1.031 (correction factor from Table H-29) × 100)] = (4200 ÷ 52.6)

(4200 ÷ 52.6) = 79.8 gallons propane, the maximum amount permitted to be placed in a 100-gallon total water capacity aboveground container equipped with a fixed dip tube.

Fixed liquid-level gages used on containers other than DOT containers shall be stamped on the exterior of the gage with the letters "DT" followed by the vertical distance (expressed in inches and carried out to one decimal place) from the top of container to the end of the dip tube or to the centerline of the gage when it is located at the maximum permitted filling level. For portable containers that may be filled in the horizontal and/or vertical position the letters "DT" shall be followed by "V" with the vertical distance from the top of the container to the end of the dip tube for vertical filling and with "H" followed by the proper distance for horizontal filling. For DOT containers the stamping shall be placed both on the exterior of the gage and on the container. On above-ground or cargo containers where the gages are positioned at specific levels, the marking may be specified in percent of total tank contents and the marking shall be stamped on the container.

Gage glasses of the columnar type shall be restricted to charging plants where the fuel is withdrawn in the liquid phase only. They shall be equipped with valves having metallic handwheels, with excess flow valves, and with extra-heavy glass adequately protected with a metal housing applied by the gage manufacturer. They shall be shielded against the direct rays of the sun. Gage glasses of the columnar type are prohibited on tank trucks, and on motor fuel tanks, and on containers used in domestic, commercial, and industrial installations.

Gaging devices of the float, or equivalent type which do not require flow for their operation and having connections extending to a point outside the container do not have to be equipped with excess flow valves provided the piping and fittings are adequately designed to withstand the container pressure and are properly protected against physical damage and breakage.

Description of a system. A system shall include the container base or bracket, containers, container valves, connectors, manifold valve assembly, regulators, and relief valves.

Except as provided in paragraph (b)(10)(xiii) of this section, the discharge from safety relief devices shall be located not less than 3 feet horizontally away from any building opening which is below the level of such discharge and shall not terminate beneath any building unless such space is well ventilated to the outside and is not enclosed on more than two sides.

Systems utilizing containers having a water capacity greater than 2½ pounds (nominal 1 pound LP-Gas capacity) shall be equipped with excess flow valves. Such excess flow valves shall be either integral with the container valves or in the connections to the container valve outlets. In either case, an excess flow valve shall be installed in such a manner that any undue strain beyond the excess flow valve will not cause breakage between the container and the excess flow valve. The installation of excess flow valves shall take into account the type of valve protection provided.

Regulators, if used, shall be either directly connected to the container valves or to manifolds connected to the container values. The regulator shall be suitable for use with LP-Gas. Manifolds and fittings connecting containers to pressure regulator inlets shall be designed for at least 250 p.s.i.g. service pressure.

The provisions of this paragraph (h) do not apply to tar kettle burners, torches, melting pots, nor do they apply to portable heaters under 7,500 B.t.u.h. input when used with containers having a maximum water capacity of 2½ pounds. Container valves, connectors, regulators, manifolds, piping, and tubing shall not be used as structural supports for heaters.

Containers, including the valve protective devices, shall be installed so as to minimize the probability of impingement of discharge of safety relief devices upon containers.

For temporary heating such as curing concrete, drying plaster and similar applications, heaters (other than integral heater-container units) shall be located at least 6 feet from any LP-Gas container. This shall not prohibit the use of heaters specifically designed for attachment to the container or to a supporting standard, provided they are designed and installed so as to prevent direct or radiant heat application from the heater onto the container. Blower and radiant type heaters shall not be directed toward any LP-Gas container within 20 feet.

If two or more heater-container units, of either the integral or nonintegral type, are located in an unpartitioned area on the same floor, the container or containers of each unit shall be separated from the container or containers of any other unit by at least 20 feet.

When heaters are connected to containers for use in an unpartitioned area on the same floor, the total water capacity of containers manifolded together for connection to a heater or heaters shall not be greater than 735 pounds (nominal 300 pounds LP-Gas capacity). Such manifolds shall be separated by at least 20 feet.

Containers connected to a manifold shall have a total water capacity not greater than 735 pounds (nominal 300 pounds LP-Gas capacity) and not more than one such manifold may be located in the same room unless separated at least 20 feet from a similar unit.

The maximum water capacity of individual containers shall be 245 pounds (nominal 100 pounds LP-Gas capacity), but the maximum quantity of LP-Gas that may be placed in each container shall be 20 pounds.

Valves in the assembly of multiple container systems shall be arranged so that replacement of containers can be made without shutting off the flow of gas in the system.

Regulators and low-pressure relief devices shall be rigidly attached to the cylinder valves, cylinders, supporting standards, the building walls or otherwise rigidly secured and shall be so installed or protected that the elements (sleet, snow, or ice) will not affect their operation.

By ventilated cap or collar, fastened to the container capable of withstanding a blow from any direction equivalent to that of a 30-pound weight dropped 4 feet. Construction must be such that a blow will not be transmitted to the valve or other connection.

When containers are not connected to the system, the outlet valves shall be kept tightly closed or plugged, even though containers are considered empty.

Containers having a water capacity in excess of 50 pounds (approximately 21 pounds LP-Gas capacity), recharged at the installation, shall be provided with excess flow or backflow check valves to prevent the discharge of container contents in case of failure of the filling or equalizing connection.

A final stage regulator of an LP-Gas system (excluding any appliance regulator) shall be equipped on the low-pressure side with a relief valve which is set to start to discharge within the limits specified in Table H-30.

When a regulator or pressure relief valve is used inside a building for other than purposes specified in paragraphs (b)(6)(i) (a)-(g) of this section, the relief valve and the space above the regulator and relief valve diaphragms shall be vented to the outside air with the discharge outlet located not less than 3 feet horizontally away from any building opening which is below such discharge. These provisions do not apply to individual appliance regulators when protection is otherwise provided nor to paragraph (c)(5) of this section and paragraph (b)(10)(xiii) of this section. In buildings devoted exclusively to gas distribution purposes, the space above the diaphragm need not be vented to the outside.

All openings in a container shall be equipped with approved automatic excess flow valves except in the following: Filling connections as provided in paragraph (d)(3)(ii) of this section; safety relief connections, liquid-level gaging devices as provided in paragraphs (b)(7)(iv), (19)(iii), and (19)(viii) of this section; pressure gage connections as provided in paragraph (b)(7)(v) of this section, as provided in paragraphs (d) (iv), (vi), and (vii) of this section.

The controlling orifice between the contents of the container and the outlet of the shutoff valve does not exceed five-sixteenths inch in diameter for vapor withdrawal systems and one-eighth inch in diameter for liquid withdrawal systems.

An approved pressure-reducing regulator is directly attached to the outlet of the shutoff valve and is rigidly supported, or that an approved pressure-reducing regulator is attached to the outlet of the shutoff valve by means of a suitable flexible connection, provided the regulator is adequately supported and properly protected on or at the tank.

All inlet and outlet connections except safety relief valves, liquid level gaging devices and pressure gages on containers of 2,000 gallons water capacity, or more, and on any container used to supply fuel directly to an internal combustion engine, shall be labeled to designate whether they communicate with vapor or liquid space. Labels may be on valves.

In lieu of an excess flow valve openings may be fitted with a quick-closing internal valve which, except during operating periods shall remain closed. The internal mechanism for such valves may be provided with a secondary control which shall be equipped with a fusible plug (not over 220 °F. melting point) which will cause the internal valve to close automatically in case of fire.

In industrial and gas manufacturing plants, discharge pipe from safety relief valves on pipe lines within a building shall discharge vertically upward and shall be piped to a point outside a building.

Safety relief device discharge terminals shall be so located as to provide protection against physical damage and such discharge pipes shall be fitted with loose raincaps. Return bends and restrictive pipefittings shall not be permitted.

If desired, discharge lines from two or more safety relief devices located on the same unit, or similar lines from two or more different units, may be run into a common discharge header, provided that the cross-sectional area of such header be at least equal to the sum of the cross-sectional area of the individual discharge lines, and that the setting of safety relief valves are the same.

A final stage regulator of an LP-Gas system (excluding any appliance regulator) shall be equipped on the low-pressure side with a relief valve which is set to start to discharge within the limits specified in Table H-30.

When a regulator or pressure relief valve is installed inside a building, the relief valve and the space above the regulator and relief valve diaphragms shall be vented to the outside air with the discharge outlet located not less than 3 feet horizontally away from any opening into the building which is below such discharge. (These provisions do not apply to individual appliance regulators when protection is otherwise provided. In buildings devoted exclusively to gas distribution purposes, the space above the diaphragm need not be vented to the outside.)

Containers of 1,200 gallons water capacity or less which may contain liquid fuel when installed above ground shall have the rate of discharge required by paragraph (b)(10)(ii) of this section provided by a spring-loaded relief valve or valves. In addition to the required spring-loaded relief valve(s), suitable fuse plug(s) may be used provided the total discharge area of the fuse plug(s) for each container does not exceed 0.25 square inch.

The fusible metal of the fuse plugs shall have a yield temperature of 208 °F. minimum and 220 °F. maximum. Relief valves and fuse plugs shall have direct communication with the vapor space of the container.

On a container having a water capacity greater than 125 gallons, but not over 2,000 gallons, the discharge from the safety relief valves shall be vented away from the container vertically upwards and unobstructed to the open air in such a manner as to prevent any impingement of escaping gas upon the container; loose-fitting rain caps shall be used. Suitable provision shall be made for draining condensate which may accumulate in the relief valve or its discharge pipe.

On containers of 125 gallons water capacity or less, the discharge from safety relief devices shall be located not less than 5 feet horizontally away from any opening into the building below the level of such discharge.

On a container having a water capacity greater than 2,000 gallons, the discharge from the safety relief valves shall be vented away from the container vertically upwards to a point at least 7 feet above the container, and unobstructed to the open air in such a manner as to prevent any impingement of escaping gas upon the container; loose-fitting rain caps shall be used. Suitable provision shall be made so that any liquid or condensate that may accumulate inside of the safety relief valve or its discharge pipe will not render the valve inoperative. If a drain is used, a means shall be provided to protect the container, adjacent containers, piping, or equipment against impingement of flame resulting from ignition of product escaping from the drain.

On all containers which are installed underground and which contain no liquid fuel until buried and covered, the rate of discharge of the spring-loaded relief valve installed thereon may be reduced to a minimum of 30 percent of the rate of discharge specified in paragraph (b)(10)(ii) of this section. Containers so protected shall not be uncovered after installation until the liquid fuel has been removed therefrom. Containers which may contain liquid fuel before being installed under ground and before being completely covered with earth are to be considered aboveground containers when determining the rate of discharge requirement of the relief valves.

On underground containers of more than 2,000 gallons water capacity, the discharge from safety relief devices shall be piped vertically and directly upward to a point at least 7 feet above the ground.

Where there is a probability of the manhole or housing becoming flooded, the discharge from regulator vent lines shall be above the highest probable water level. All manholes or housings shall be provided with ventilated louvers or their equivalent, the area of such openings equaling or exceeding the combined discharge areas of the safety relief valves and other vent lines which discharge their content into the manhole housing.

Vaporizers of less than 1 quart total capacity, heated by the ground or the surrounding air, need not be equipped with safety relief valves provided that adequate tests certified by any of the authorities referred to in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, demonstrate that the assembly is safe without safety relief valves.

In industrial and gas manufacturing plants, safety relief valves on vaporizers within a building shall be piped to a point outside the building and be discharged upward.

Reinstallation of containers. Containers may be reinstalled if they do not show any evidence of harmful external corrosion or other damage. Where containers are reinstalled underground, the corrosion resistant coating shall be put in good condition (see paragraph (c)(7)(vi) of this section). Where containers are reinstalled above ground, the safety devices and gaging devices shall comply with paragraph (c)(4) of this section and paragraph (b)(19) of this section respectively for aboveground containers.

Containers with foundations attached (portable or semiportable containers with suitable steel "runners" or "skids" and popularly known in the industry as "skid tanks") shall be designed, installed, and used in accordance with these rules subject to the following provisions:

Flanges, nozzles, valves, fittings, and the like, having communication with the interior of the container, shall be protected against physical damage.

Skids, or lugs for attachment of skids, shall be secured to the container in accordance with the code or rules under which the container is designed and built (with a minimum factor of safety of four) to withstand loading in any direction equal to four times the weight of the container and attachments when filled to the maximum permissible loaded weight.

Container assemblies listed for interchangeable installation above ground or under ground shall conform to the requirements for aboveground installations with respect to safety relief capacity and filling density. For installation above ground all other requirements for aboveground installations shall apply. For installation under ground all other requirements for underground installations shall apply.

Valves, regulating, gaging, and other container accessory equipment shall be protected against tampering and physical damage. Such accessories shall also be so protected during the transit of containers intended for installation underground.

On underground or combination aboveground-underground containers, the service valve handwheel, the terminal for connecting the hose, and the opening through which there can be a flow from safety relief valves shall be at least 4 inches above the container and this opening shall be located in the dome or housing. Underground systems shall be so installed that all the above openings, including the regulator vent, are located above the normal maximum water table.

If loading and unloading are normally done during other than daylight hours, adequate lights shall be provided to illuminate storage containers, control valves, and other equipment.

For the end-user, propane is a safe, easy to use heating source that can power barbecue grills, home heating systems, and even refrigerators. But along the way, from extraction in the field to storage at your local Ferrellgas office, propane undergoes a number of different processes to ready it for commercial and residential use.

The key to propane’s portability, and what packs so much energy into a relatively small volume of space, is pressure. In its natural state, propane is a vaporous gas. Under pressure, however, that vapor is converted to a form that is easier to transport and store. Liquified Petroleum Gas, or LPG, is the result of pressurizing propane gas, which causes it to drop below its boiling point of -44 degrees Fahrenheit.

At this temperature or below, propane remains in a liquid state, which condenses a large amount of energy into a small volume of fluid. When the propane’s temperature increases, it begins to “boil” off and this vapor is the usable form of propane that is converted to flame and heat  your appliances. In this state, propane gas has a natural reaction to expand until it reaches equilibrium, or where it has normalized with atmospheric pressure.

There are four “Gas Laws”that explain the relationship between gases, pressure, temperature, and volume. Generally, propane pressureshould be between 100 and 200 psi ensures that the liquid propane gas remains in a liquid state.

Normally, the pressure inside a propane tank fluctuates slightly based on the outside temperature. For example, a standard 20-pound propane tank at 70 degrees will have 145 psi internal pressure. That same tank on a 100-degree day will have 172 psi of pressure.

Propane pressure levels exceeding 200 psi are likely to trigger a release from the safety relief valve commonly installed on propane storage tanks. This device allows propane gas to safely vent out of the tank if there’s excessive pressure.

If a propane tank is in contact with extreme heat, such as a garage fire, the external heat can cause the temperature inside the tank to increase, creating a BLEVE –or boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion. As the heat raises the temperature of the propane, the vapor expands and increases the pressure inside the tank, which can lead to a rupture.

On the other extreme, propane itself is unlikely to freeze –that would require a temperature below -306 degrees Fahrenheit. However, trace amounts of water in supply lines can freeze inside fuel ports and fittings in extremely cold conditions.

Use a pressure gauge. This device can be installed between the shutoff valve and the initial regulator and is particularly common on larger residential systems.

Close the shut-off valve and allow the system to stand for three minutes without showing an increase or decrease in pressure. Any increase in pressure indicates a faulty valve, while a decrease indicates a leak.

On smaller systems, such as propane barbecue grills, it’s important to remember that exposure to direct sunlight can increase both the temperature and pressure inside your propane tank.

The best practice is to store your grill and tank in a shaded and well-ventilated area. While your tank will be equipped with a pressure relief valve – also known as a “pop-off valve” – in case the pressure rises too high, there’s no need to tempt fate –or waste the propane you’ve purchased.

Additionally, it’s important to make sure your tank is not damaged and is free from rust, which could likewise affect not only the tank’s performance, but its ability to maintain the proper pressure.

Ferrellgas locations offer tank painting and rust removal services, and qualified technicians can inspect your tank to ensure it’s in good working order. Ferrellgas also produces resources with valuable information about propane tank safety, and additional information that will help you get the most from your tank.

Knowing how much pressure is in a propane tank is important, but it’s only part of the information you need to know to get the most from your experience with propane.

Understanding how your tank – and propane gas – reacts to extreme temperatures, the safety devices available, and the importance of safety and maintenance, will help ensure you get the most from each tank of propane you use. And don’t forget that there’s a Ferrellgas location near you with experts who are ready to help you answer any question.

Any technician or plumber who installs, modifies, repairs or services equipment and appliances for use with propane must be registered with the Missouri Propane Safety Commission. If you are not sure if your technician is qualified to work on your propane systems, call us at 573-893-1073 and we can verify the company or individual in question.

The Commission only has jurisdiction on safety issues, not business practices. Business practice issues could be referred to the Better Business Bureau or the State"s Attorney General"s office.

A propane supplier considers many factors to determine the cost to a customer. This could result in neighbors with the same size tanks getting different prices depending on a number of circumstances:

Is the propane for needs (large uses, such as home heating, cooking appliances, water heater) or for decorative appliances (small uses, such as gas logs, gas lights)?

State law prohibits one company from filling a tank belonging to another company. This is as it should be. The company that has their tank at your house deserves a return on that investment, and their margin on the propane they sell you is a large part of that return. They may also charge rent on the tank if you do not buy a prescribed amount of propane each year. That is their privilege. You do not have the right to ask another company to fill that tank, no matter how much less they charge. You may shop around for the best price if you own the tank yourself, and that is the return you get for your investment of buying a tank.

Your problem is not a new problem. Former propane suppliers are sometimes slow to remove their tanks when the account is taken over by a new supplier. They are busy in the winter, so that could be a reason for their delay.

There is nothing in the state laws that gives us authority to require a propane company to remove a tank not in use. The LP-Gas Code does give us authority to require that some unsafe situations be corrected and we will send a field inspector to inspect your property and assist in resolving the issue.

Grill cylinders are typically referred to as “20 lb.” tanks and hold 20 pounds of propane, a little over 4 ½ gallons, when full. For safety reasons, a “full” tank is about 80% liquid so there is expansion space if the liquid warms. There is an Overfill Prevention Device (OPD) built into the valve that will limit the fill to a little less than 20 pounds on a warm day. Also, there are cylinders that are larger or smaller than the “20 pounders” and hold appropriately larger or smaller amounts.

Most cylinders for sale at exchange cabinets contain less than 20 pounds of propane. Part of the reason for this is the OPD limitation mentioned above. The other reason is competition. Be aware that an exchanged cylinder probably contains about 15 to 17 pounds of propane and is required to show this in the net weight statement the label.

You probably don"t want this answer, but it depends... Most of the time, when a propane company sets a tank, they keep ownership of it. This is especially true for above ground tanks. Buried tanks become the property of the homeowner more often, but not always. If you are going to have a tank buried, ask your propane company what their policy is and what the advantages and disadvantages of tank ownership are.

If the propane company intends to keep ownership of the tank, they will ask you to sign a tank lease or agreement and they will have clear documentation that they intend to keep ownership of that tank, even if the house sells and a disclosure statement does not point out that the tank is not included in that sale.

There is a requirement to disclose what equipment is not included in the transfer of the property, especially those items that are attached to the house or property. A change in the law in 2012 added the following statement in the "Fixtures" section of the 2-T Realtor Offer to Purchase and Contract form:

"NOTE: Seller and Buyer should confirm whether fuel tanks, antennas, satellite dishes and receivers, alarm systems, and other items listed above are leased or not owned by Seller and should be entered in the blank above."

"The following items, if any, are deemed fixtures and are included in the Purchase Price free of liens: ... fuel tank(s) whether attached or buried and including contents, if any, as of Settlement, ..."

"If the fuel source is stored in a tank, identify if the tank is above ground or below ground, and whether the tank is leased by the seller or owned by the seller."

If you are unsure or if there is no mention of the status of the propane tank or its contents, ask the real estate agent to provide the required disclosure before closing day.

You should note that these statements put some burden on the buyer to make sure that they ask for confirmation of full disclosure. If the buyer makes it clear that they have made the effort to confirm the status of fixtures, and if the propane tank and its contents were not excluded, then they may have a legitimate claim of ownership should the question come up. However, do not consider this as legal advice. Work with your attorney and realtor to assure compliance with legal requirements during negotiations, settlement, and closing.

(a) Each system utilizing DOT containers in accordance with 49 C.F.R. Part 178 must have its container valves, connectors, manifold valve assemblies, and regulators approved.

(c) In systems utilizing containers of over two thousand gallons water capacity, each regulator, container, valve, excess flow valve, gaging device, and relief valve installed on or at the container, must have its correctness as to design, construction, and performance determined by listing by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Refer to federal regulation 29 C.F.R. 1910.7 for definition of nationally recognized testing laboratory.

(a) You must perform welding to the shell, head, or any other part of the container subject to internal pressure, in compliance with the code under which the tank was fabricated. Other welding is permitted only on saddle plates, lugs, or brackets attached to the container by the tank manufacturer.

(viii) With marking indicating the maximum level to which the container may be filled with liquid at temperatures between 20°F and 130°F, except on containers provided with fixed maximum level indicators or which are filled by weighing. Markings must be increments of not more than 20°F. This marking may be located on the liquid level gaging device.

(g) The minimum separation between liquefied petroleum gas containers and flammable liquid tanks must be 20 feet, and the minimum separation between a container and the centerline of the dike must be 10 feet. The foregoing provision must not apply when LP-gas containers of 125 gallons or less capacity are installed adjacent to Category 4 flammable liquid tanks of 275 gallons or less capacity.

(a) Valves, fittings, and accessories connected directly to the container including primary shutoff valves, must have a rated working pressure of at least 250 p.s.i.g. and must be of material and design suitable for LP-gas service. You must not use cast iron for container valves, fittings, and accessories. This does not prohibit the use of container valves made of malleable or nodular iron.

(b) Connections to containers, except safety relief connections, liquid level gaging devices, and plugged openings, must have shutoff valves located as close to the container as practicable.

(c) Excess flow valves, where required must close automatically at the rated flows of vapor or liquid as specified by the manufacturer. The connections or line including valves, fittings, etc., being protected by an excess flow valve must have a greater capacity than the rated flow of the excess flow valve.

(d) Liquid level gaging devices which are so constructed that outward flow of container contents must not exceed that passed by a No. 54 drill size opening, need not be equipped with excess flow valves.

(e) Openings from container or through fittings attached directly on container to which pressure gage connection is made, need not be equipped with shutoff or excess flow valves if such openings are restricted to not larger than No. 54 drill size opening.

(f) Except as provided in WAC 296-24-47507 (5)(a)(ii), you must locate excess flow and back pressure check valves where required by this section inside of the container or at a point outside where the line enters the container; in the latter case, you must install in such manner that any undue strain beyond the excess flow or back pressure check valve will not cause breakage between the container and such valve.

(a) Pipe, except as provided in WAC 296-24-47511 (6)(a) must be wrought iron or steel (black or galvanized), brass, copper, or aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloy pipe must be at least Schedule 40 in accordance with the specifications for Aluminum Alloy Pipe, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) H38.7-1969 (ASTM, B241-1969), except that the use of alloy 5456 is prohibited and must be suitably marked at each end of each length indicating compliance with American National Standard Institute specifications. You must protect aluminum alloy pipe against external corrosion when it is in contact with dissimilar metals other than galvanized steel, or its location is subject to repeated wetting by such liquids as water (except rain water), detergents, sewage, or leaking from other piping, or it passes through flooring, plaster, masonry, or insulation. Galvanized sheet steel or pipe, galvanized inside and out, may be considered suitable protection. The maximum nominal pipe size for aluminum pipe must be 3/4 inch and must not be used for pressures exceeding 20 p.s.i.g. You must not install aluminum alloy pipe within 6 inches of the ground.

You must protect aluminum alloy tubing against external corrosion when it is in contact with dissimilar metals other than galvanized steel, or its location is subject to repeated wetting by liquids such as water (except rainwater), detergents, sewage, or leakage from other piping, or it passes through flooring, plaster, masonry, or insulation. Galvanized sheet steel or pipe, galvanized inside and out, may be considered suitable protection. The maximum outside diameter for aluminum alloy tubing must be 3/4 inch and must not be used for pressures exceeding 20 p.s.i.g. You must not install aluminum alloy tubing within six inches of the ground.

(h) All materials such as valve seats, packing, gaskets, diaphragms, etc., must be of such quality as to be resistant to the action of liquefied petroleum gas under the service conditions to which they are subjected.

(f) Hose and hose connections on the low-pressure side of the regulator or reducing valve must be designed for a bursting pressure of not less than 125 p.s.i.g. or five times the set pressure of the relief devices protecting that portion of the system, whichever is higher.

(iv) The shutoff valve for an appliance connected by hose must be in the metal pipe or tubing and not at the appliance end of the hose. When shutoff valves are installed close to each other, you must take precautions to prevent operation of the wrong valve.

(a) You must provide every container except those constructed in accordance with DOT specifications and every vaporizer (except motor fuel vaporizers and except vaporizers described in subsection (11)(b)(iii) of this section and WAC 296-24-47509 (4)(e)(i)) whether heated by artificial means or not, with one or more safety relief valves of spring-loaded or equivalent type. You must arrange these valves to afford free vent to the outer air with discharge not less than five feet horizontally away from any opening into the building which is below such discharge. The rate of discharge must be in accordance with the requirements of (b) or (d) of this subsection in the case of vaporizers.

(b) Minimum required rate of discharge in cubic feet per minute of air at 120% of the maximum permitted start to discharge pressure for safety relief valves to be used on containers other than those constructed in accordance with DOT specification must be as follows:

Area = (Overall length + 0.3 outside diameter) x outside diameter x 3.1416.Note:This formula is not exact, but will give results within the limits of practical accuracy for the sole purpose of sizing relief valves.

Valves not marked "air" have flow rate marking in cubic feet per minute of liquefied petroleum gas. These can be converted to ratings in cubic feet per minute of air by multiplying the liquefied petroleum gas ratings by factors listed below. Air flow ratings can be converted to ratings in cubic feet per minute of liquefied petroleum gas by dividing the air ratings by the factors listed below.

(d) Minimum required rate of discharge for safety relief valves for liquefied petroleum gas vaporizers (steam heated, water heated, and direct fired).

(e) You must set container and vaporizer safety relief valves to start-to-discharge, with relation to the design pressure of the container, in accordance with Table H-26.

(f) Safety relief devices used with systems employing containers other than those constructed according to DOT specifications must be so constructed as to discharge at not less than the rates shown in (b) of this subsection, before the pressure is in excess of 120% of the maximum (not including the 10% referred to in (e) of this subsection) permitted start to discharge pressure setting of the device.

(g) In certain locations sufficiently sustained high temperatures prevail which require the use of a lower vapor pressure product to be stored or the use of a higher designed pressure vessel in order to prevent the safety valves opening as the result of these temperatures. As an alternative the tanks may be protected by cooling devices such as by spraying, by shading, or other effective means.

(h) You must arrange safety relief valves so that the possibility of tampering will be minimized. If pressure setting or adjustment is external, you must provide the relief valves with approved means for sealing adjustment.

(i) You must not install shutoff valves between the safety relief devices and the container, or the equipment or piping to which the safety relief device is connected except that a shutoff valve may be used where the arrangement of this valve is such that full required capacity flow through the safety relief device is always afforded.

(k) You must plainly and permanently mark each container safety relief valve used with systems covered by WAC 296-24-47509, 296-24-47511, and 296-24-47517, except as provided in WAC 296-24-47511 (3)(c) with the following: "Container type" of the pressure vessel on which the valve is designed to be installed; the pressure in p.s.i.g. at which the valve is set to discharge; the actual rate of discharge of the valve in cubic feet per minute of air at 60°F and 14.7 p.s.i.a.; and the manufacturer"s name and catalog number, for example: T200-250-4050 AIR—indicating that the valve is suitable for use on a Type 200 container, that it is set to start to discharge at 250 p.s.i.g.; and that its rate of discharge is four thousand fifty cubic feet per minute of air as determined in (b) of this subsection.

(l) Safety relief valve assemblies, including their connections, must be of sufficient size so as to provide the rate of flow required for the container on which they are installed.

(m) You must install a hydrostatic relief valve between each pair of shutoff valves on liquefied petroleum gas liquid piping so as to relieve into a safe atmosphere. The start-to-discharge pressure setting of such relief valves must not be in excess of 500 p.s.i.g. The minimum setting on relief valves installed in piping connected to other than DOT containers must not be lower than 140% of the container relief valve setting and in piping connected to DOT containers not lower than 400 p.s.i.g. Such a relief valve should not be installed in the pump discharge piping if the same protection can be provided by installing the relief valve in the suction piping. The start-to-discharge pressure setting of such a relief valve, if installed on the disch