Liquefied gas tanks are common energy storage devices in daily life and commercial operations, and their safe use is directly related to personal and property safety. Many people only understand liquefied gas tanks as “gas containers,” overlooking their potential risks and scientific usage regulations. This article will provide a comprehensive understanding of liquefied gas tanks and establish a systematic safety awareness.
Two Core Types of Liquefied Gas Tank Explosions
(I) Physical Explosion
The essence of a physical explosion is structural failure caused by pressure exceeding the tank’s limits. The most common scenario occurs when the tank is continuously exposed to high temperatures. The liquefied petroleum gas inside the tank rapidly vaporizes due to the heat, causing a rapid expansion in volume and a rapid surge in internal pressure. When the pressure exceeds the cylinder’s designed pressure rating, the tank explodes, potentially accompanied by flying cylinder fragments and causing secondary damage. Additionally, two types of improper operation can trigger physical explosions: overfilling and severe compression and deformation.
(II) Chemical Explosion
A chemical explosion is a violent chemical reaction triggered by a flammable gas mixed with air, reaching its explosive limit, upon encountering an ignition source. If the valves and connections of a liquefied gas tank are not properly sealed or are damaged due to aging, the gas within the tank will slowly leak out. In confined or poorly ventilated spaces such as kitchens and basements, the leaked gas will gradually accumulate. When the concentration reaches between the lower and upper explosion limits, it can explode instantly upon contact with an open flame or spark (such as from an electrical switch), releasing a massive amount of heat and a shock wave, with destructive power far exceeding that of a physical explosion.
The Structure and Core Hazards of Liquefied Gas Tanks
To mitigate risks, it is first necessary to understand the basic structure of liquefied gas tanks and the characteristics of the gas, identifying safety hazards at the source.
(I) Structural Composition: Functions and Roles of the Four Core Components
A standard liquefied gas tank consists primarily of four parts: the cylinder body, the valve, the base, and the protective shield. Each component has a clearly defined function and works together to ensure the tank’s tightness and stability:
The cylinder body: Made of high-strength steel, it serves as the core container for storing liquefied petroleum gas. Its thickness and material must comply with national mandatory standards. Key information such as the production date, service life, and nominal volume are typically marked on the surface.
The valve: This acts as the tank’s “switch,” controlling the flow of gas and shutting it off. It automatically releases pressure when the internal pressure rises abnormally, acting as a key safety feature.
The base: This is typically round or square, made of plastic or metal. It secures the cylinder and prevents it from tipping over, potentially damaging the valve or leaking the gas.
The protective shield: Located on top of the tank, it encloses the valve and other key components, effectively protecting the valve from damage during transportation and use. Some shields also feature handles for easy transport.
(II) Core Hazards: “Safety Red Lines” Determined by Gas Characteristics
The root of the danger of LPG cylinders lies in the LPG stored within them. These characteristics directly determine the safety requirements during use:
Flammability and Explosion: Even at room temperature, if leaked, LPG mixes with air and encounters even the slightest spark, it can cause combustion or explosion.
High Diffusion: After leaking, LPG rapidly vaporizes, creating a flammable gas with a higher density than air. It tends to accumulate on the ground and in low-lying areas and is difficult to disperse, increasing the risk of explosion.
Toxicity Hazard: Although LPG itself is not significantly toxic, large leaks can deplete oxygen in the air, leading to suffocation and hypoxia. Incomplete combustion can also produce toxic gases such as carbon monoxide, which can be life-threatening.
Key Regulations for the Safe Use of LPG Cylinders
Whether used by households or restaurants, strict compliance with operating regulations is essential when using LPG cylinders. Every aspect, from storage to daily use, must be carefully considered.
(1) Storage and Usage Environment: Remember the “Six Don’ts” Principle
The storage environment of liquefied gas cylinders directly impacts safety. They must be stored in a dedicated room, well-ventilated, cool, dry area, and below 35°C. Strictly adhere to the “Six Don’ts” principle.
Keep away from open flames or heat sources (such as heaters, stoves, and water heaters). Keep a distance of at least 1.5 meters.
Do not store in confined spaces (such as bathrooms, basements, and closets) to prevent gas leaks from spreading.
Do not store cylinders upside down or horizontally during use to prevent residual liquid from flowing into pipes and causing blockages or fires.
Do not store in direct sunlight. During high summer temperatures, provide shade to prevent the tank from heating and increasing pressure.
Do not store with other flammable or explosive items (such as gasoline, alcohol, and firecrackers) to prevent cross-contamination.
Do not modify the tank structure or disassemble components such as the valve and safety valve to prevent damage to the seal.
(II) All-Scenario Usage Regulations: Covering the Needs of Residents and Businesses
Whether it’s daily gas use in households or centralized gas use by restaurants, all must adhere to unified safety regulations:
Residential users: Before each use, check the cylinder valve and connecting hose for integrity and leaks. Stay in the kitchen during use to prevent soup from spilling and extinguishing the flame, potentially causing a gas leak. Close the cylinder valve and stove switch promptly after use. Regularly replace aging connecting hoses, preferably using corrosion-resistant and age-resistant metal bellows.
Restaurants: A dedicated storage room for LPG cylinders must be equipped with ventilation and fire extinguishing equipment. Maintain a safe distance from stoves and workstations. Designate a dedicated person for daily inspection and maintenance, conduct regular employee safety training, and prohibit the use of other fire sources (such as coal stoves or alcohol stoves) in the operating room. When using commercial stoves, ensure they meet national standards and regularly clean the burner to prevent blockage and incomplete combustion.
Professional Solutions for LPG Cylinder Safety
In addition to standard daily operation, equipped with professional safety equipment is also an important means of mitigating risks. Chicheng Electric has launched a targeted liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) safety solution based on the gas usage habits and accident characteristics of residents and businesses. This solution utilizes a “detection + linkage” approach to achieve real-time risk monitoring and rapid response.
(I) Home Scenario: Combustible Gas Detector + Cylinder Manipulator
For residential use, Chicheng Electric offers a home flammable gas detector. This product complies with national standards and utilizes high-precision gas sensors to monitor indoor flammable gas leak concentrations in real time. It combines high sensitivity with excellent repeatability, preventing safety risks from false alarms or missed alarms.
When the detector detects a gas leak reaching the preset alarm threshold, it immediately emits a high-decibel audible and visual alarm, alerting the user to take immediate action. Models with a linkage function also automatically trigger the cylinder manipulator, which quickly closes the LPG tank valve, cutting off the gas supply and preventing further leaks. If the home is equipped with a linked fan, the fan will also activate simultaneously, accelerating the diffusion of gas indoors and minimizing the risk of explosion.
(II) Industrial and Commercial Scenarios: Integrated Detector + Smart Cloud Platform
For commercial and industrial users like restaurants and hotels, Chicheng Electric offers an integrated combustible gas alarm device. This compact device is easy to install, requiring no complex wiring and ready for immediate use, without taking up valuable kitchen space. Its core advantage lies in its built-in wireless module, which connects directly to the Chicheng Electric Smart Cloud Platform, providing comprehensive protection through “remote monitoring + intelligent linkage.” Workers can view real-time gas leak concentration data via a computer or mobile app. The platform automatically records monitoring information and generates data analysis reports, helping users understand gas safety status. In the event of a leak, the device not only emits an on-site audible and visual alarm, but also sends SMS and app push notifications to management personnel, ensuring immediate notification of the danger. Furthermore, the device can be linked to the exhaust system and cylinder manipulator to quickly shut off the gas source and expel the leaked gas, effectively preventing further incidents.
