Many industries use compressed gas cylinders to store substances such as oxygen, propane, acetylene, or fire suppressants. Structural flaws in a cylinder can turn dangerous resulting in leaks, ruptures, or even deadly explosions. The two primary methods of testing cylinders to detect these potential flaws are hydrostatic testing and ultrasonic examination. The processes of these two testing methods are vastly different in technique, time, and cost.

This 3 part article discusses the different testing methods for re-qualification of portable cylinders. The information addressed includes:

• Hydrostatic Testing
• Ultrasonic Examination
• Benefits of Ultrasonic Examination

Part 1 addressed Hydrostatic Testing, Part 2 addressed Ultrasonic Examination and Part 3 addresses the Benefits of Ultrasonic Examination.

Benefits of Ultrasonic Examination

There are many advantages to using ultrasonic examination for cylinders compared to hydrostatic testing. Some benefits include:

• Accurate testing data: Ultrasonic examination equipment finds flaws such as wall thinning, pitting, and cracks which can be missed with hydrostatic testing
• Faster testing time: Ultrasonic examination is much faster and less labor-intensive than hydrostatic testing
• Flexible testing: Ultrasonic examination can be used on a wide range of cylinder materials such as steel, aluminum, and high strength steel
• No valve removal: probably the most important benefit that avoids potential valve damage

The Jay L Harman Fire Equipment team understands your fire fighting and cylinder re-qualification needs and is ready to help

Jay L Harman’s DOT Hydrostatic Testing and Ultrasonic Examination facility and equipment meet all NFPA requirements for the hydrostatic testing and Ultrasonic Examination of compressed gas cylinders and portable fire extinguisher cylinders.

Jay L Harman Fire Equipment Company is your local AMEREX dealer offering the full range of AMEREX Fire Extinguishers, Kitchen Protection systems, Vehicle Systems, Automatic Gas Detection and Industrial Systems.

Jay L Harman is the best and one of the biggest firefighting equipment suppliers and service providers in the region, specializing in fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, fire hoses, hydrostatic testing and more. Serving El Paso TX, Las Cruces NM and the surrounding areas, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible.

Jay L Harman Fire Equipment is your go-to distributor for OVAL low-profile fire extinguishers in West Texas and New Mexico.

Contact Jay L. Harman Fire Equipment in El Paso TX at 915-533-7021 or Las Cruces NM at 575-523-8880.

Since1925, we have protected businesses throughout the area from the harms and hazards of fires. Every Jay L Harman technician is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire Marshal’s Office.  Each of these technicians continually receives the most up-to-date factory training and certifications by our manufacturers. Contact Jay L Harman Fire Equipment today. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff tell you more about our fire suppression systems and help you find the ideal fire suppression system for your needs. Learn more about our full offering of fire extinguisher training, firefighting services, firefighting products, request a quote, ask a question or request additional information.