3. Carbon Dioxide cylinders used in Food and Medical applications contain additional
information according to legal requirements.
Cylinder Position
Cylinders without syphon (dip) tubes must only be used in the vertical position with the
valve uppermost. They are for the discharge of CO2 gas at limited flow rates. If the
cylinders are not used in the vertical position they could discharge liquid.
Pre Use Check
For ambient temperatures above 22°C care should be taken to ensure gas is present at the
cylinder valve before connection i.e. there is no snow present. Note this action should be
done in a suitably ventilated area.
Cooling Effect
As gas is discharged, liquid will evaporate and the gas pressure will be maintained. With
the cooling effect produced by evaporation, it is quite normal for a layer of frost to form
on the outside of the cylinder during discharge. The gas flow will be limited by the rate at
which the heat required for evaporation can enter the cylinder and any attempt to obtain
a higher flow will result in reduced supply pressure.
NOTE - Excessive flow rates may result in the formation of 'dry ice" in the cylinder which
will then be apparently empty. However, any 'dry ice' will sublime and restore pressure
within the cylinder as it warms up. Dry ice has a surface temperature of -78.5°C and care
should be taken to avoid frost burns.
4. Cylinder Handling
General Handling Instructions
Before handling cylinders note should be taken of Manual Handling Regulations. Cylinders
must be handled at all times as high pressure containers. Particular care must be taken to
avoid violent external blows on the cylinder or valve. Under no circumstance must the
cylinders be dropped or used as roller supports. Any cylinder which suffers visible damage
during handling or use must be set aside immediately and clearly marked. An assessment
of the apparent damage should be made by a competent person and further action then
agreed with the supplier.
Use Of Trolleys
Various types of proprietary trolleys are available for holding and moving one or more
cylinders at a time. These may be used to ensure safe handling. Care must be taken to
ensure the chain or other cylinder retaining arrangements are correctly secured before
movement.
DRY ICE/CARBON DIOXIDE CYLINDERS - Safe Use & Storage
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