Code Approval of Composite Propane Cylinders for Indoor Use ...

ConclusionThe propane industry is supportive of developing new products to take advantage of thecomposite cylinders’ benefits, including indoor use of these cylinders. Even more importantly,the propane industry is committed to the safe use of these products through their support of thefire test programs to identify potential hazards as well as the development of educationalmaterials for firefighters and the general public on cabinet heaters and indoor use of propane.Through these efforts, data has been generated that indicate composite cylinder fire testperformance is encouraging for indoor use, specifically:• The one-piece cylinders did not rupture during any of the fire testing performed;• There was no evidence of high velocity jetting of propane; cylinders vented at pressureslower than the relief valve setting;• Composite cylinders were able to withstand exposure to a high radiant heat flux (300kW) without venting;• A burning cylinder cooled by water hose spray did not rupture or crack• The maximum heat release rates for empty cylinders are within reason for warehousetype storage.• Proposed code changes to NFPA 58 are adequate to provide for safe use indoors.- The 16 pound composite cylinder and connection are uniquely designed forconnection to cabinet heaters, thereby eliminating the possibility that a largercomposite or metal cylinder can be adapted and connected to the heater,- the heater is limited to 10,000 BTU/Hr, and- use of the heater is restricted to one- and two-family structures and commercialproperties.• If proposed changes to the National LP Gas Code (NFPA 58) are accepted, properlydesigned propane unvented cabinet heaters, when combined with composite cylinders,may present some safety advantages over other types of space heaters already approvedfor indoor use in occupied buildings; e.g. kerosene heaters. This may be especially truewhen issues such carbon accidental or intentional cross fueling is considered; e.g. pouringgasoline into a kerosene space heater. Propane is a clean burning non-toxic flammablegas.Although the fire test results are encouraging, concerns about consumer misuse (including lackof maintenance), tampering, additional fuel load within a residential structure, and the inabilityfor composite cylinders to reseal once breached in a fire still remain. Many of these concernshave been addressed through engineered systems identified in this study (CGA 793 valve;braided metallic hose; reduced fuel capacity and heater rating); however work should continue toeducate fire professionals and consumers in the safe handling, storage, use, and fire performanceof composite cylinders and associated appliances for indoor use.Composite Propane Cylinders 43February 2007for Indoor Use — Phase IIBattelle