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Why must acetylene cylinders be stored and used in an upright position, and not laid on their side?

2021-08-01View Original

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Reason 1: Acetylene cylinders are filled with fillers and solvents (propane). When used in a horizontal position, propane tends to flow out along with the acetylene gas, which not only increases the consumption of propane but also lowers the combustion temperature, affecting performance. Additionally, this can lead to backfire and cause explosions in the acetylene cylinder. Acetylene in the cylinder is dissolved in a propane solvent under pressure. When the valve is opened, the pressure decreases, and the dissolved acetylene turns into a gas and is released. Laying acetylene cylinders on their side may cause acetone to leak out; the acetylene dissolved in the acetone then rapidly vaporizes and mixes with air to form an explosive mixture. The explosion limits are 2.3%–72.3% (by volume), and the minimum ignition energy is 0.019 mJ. Exposure to open flames or heat can trigger combustion and explosion. It not only increases the consumption of propyne but also lowers the combustion temperature, affecting its use; meanwhile, it causes tempering that can lead to explosions of acetylene cylinders ; Additionally, pressure will blow out both the solvent and the dissolved acetylene, leading to an increase in acetylene pressure and a potential explosion. Reason 2: When acetylene cylinders are placed horizontally, they tend to roll, and the cylinders may collide with each other or with other objects, generating energy that can lead to accidents involving these cylinders. Reason 3: The acetylene cylinder is equipped with shock-absorbing rubber rings to prevent collisions during loading, unloading, transportation, and use. The rubber ring is an insulating material; when the cylinder is placed in a horizontal position, it is equivalent to placing the acetylene cylinder on an electrical insulator. This prevents the static electricity generated on the cylinder from dissipating into the ground, causing it to accumulate on the cylinder itself, which can lead to the formation of static sparks. In the event of an acetylene leak, this can easily result in fires and explosions. Reason 4: When in use, the cylinder valve of the acetylene cylinder is equipped with a pressure reducer and a flame arrester, as well as rubber hoses connected to it. Since it tends to roll when placed on its side, rolling can damage the pressure reducer and flame arrester or cause the rubber hoses to come loose, resulting in the leakage of acetylene gas and leading to combustion and explosion.

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