Inspection of aluminum gas cylinders for cracking in the neck region

John W.H. Price, Raafat N. Ibrahim, Dimitry Ischenko

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1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Some common portable gas cylinders made in aluminium alloy have shown a liability to develop cracking after a period of time. This cracking has led to leaks and on occasions to violent failures of the cylinders. The cracks grow in regions of high stress concentration due to residual stresses and at stress raisers resulting from manufacture. This paper discusses the Australian situation and strategies which are in place to reduce risk from failure. The current procedure involves examining the cylinders visually each year using dental mirrors as well as carrying out hydrostatic pressure tests. The nature of this inspection, how effective it is and whether it can be improved is discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)45-51
Number of pages7
JournalInternational Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping
Volume73
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1997

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