Recovery Cylinder Identification
DOT requires that recovery cylinders be painted yellow with a gray shoulder to distinguish them from other refrigerant cylinders. This color coding helps prevent confusion between virgin refrigerant, recovered refrigerant, and other gases. Always verify the cylinder markings before use and ensure proper labeling of contents.
Recovery cylinders are yellow body with gray shoulder. This DOT color code distinguishes them from other cylinders.
Maximum Fill Level & Thermal Expansion
Recovery cylinders must never be filled beyond 80% of their capacity. This 20% headspace is critical because liquid refrigerant expands as temperature increases. If a cylinder were filled to 100% and then exposed to heat, the expanding liquid would have nowhere to go, causing a catastrophic hydraulic rupture. Pressure relief devices provide additional protection but should not be relied upon.
Maximum fill: 80% of capacity. The 20% headspace allows for thermal expansion and prevents catastrophic rupture.
Cylinder & Transport Rules
Safe Storage & Transportation
Refrigerant cylinders should be stored upright with valve protection caps securely in place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. During transport, cylinders must be secured in an upright position in a well-ventilated area. Never transport cylinders in a sealed trunk or passenger compartment. Never transport damaged cylinders, and ensure hydrostatic test dates have not expired.
Store and transport cylinders upright, secured, with valve caps on, in a well-ventilated area. Never use a sealed trunk.
Cylinder Handling Review
- Recovery cylinders: yellow body with gray shoulder (DOT requirement).
- Maximum fill is 80% of capacity to allow for thermal expansion of liquid refrigerant.
- Store cylinders upright with valve protection caps in place, away from heat.
- Transport secured upright in well-ventilated area; never in a sealed trunk.
- Pressure relief devices prevent rupture from overpressurization; never heat cylinders with an open flame.