Why can the oxygen cylinder not be contaminated with grease

Why Should Oxygen Cylinders, Especially the Nozzles, Be Protected from Oil and Grease Contamination?

Many people involved in the operation and storage of oxygen cylinders are not fully aware of the dangers associated with oil and grease contamination. Oils and fats, particularly those containing unsaturated fatty acids, can easily evaporate and release heat. For example, oily rags or tarpaulins can catch fire due to oxidation in the air. If the heat generated cannot dissipate, it may lead to spontaneous combustion once the auto-ignition temperature is reached.

Although oil vaporizes slowly in the air and the heat generated is usually dissipated quickly, this doesn’t pose a major risk under normal conditions. However, when pure oxygen is involved, the situation changes dramatically. Oxygen is highly reactive and can significantly accelerate the evaporation of oils and fats, releasing large amounts of heat in the process. This rapid increase in temperature can lead to fires or even explosions.

If the cylinder's nozzle becomes contaminated with grease, and oxygen is released rapidly, the grease can undergo an oxidation reaction. The friction between the high-pressure gas stream and the nozzle further speeds up this reaction, leading to contamination of the cylinder or pressure regulator. This can result in combustion or even catastrophic explosions. That’s why oxygen cylinders, especially their nozzles and other parts that come into contact with oxygen, must never be exposed to grease or oil.

What Precautions Should Be Taken to Prevent Grease Contamination During Storage, Transportation, and Use?

1. Clearly mark oxygen cylinders and storage areas with signs indicating "No Oil or Grease." This serves as a reminder that oxygen cylinders and their components—such as pressure regulators, welding torches, and gas hoses—must not come into contact with any form of grease.

2. Warehouses and transport vehicles storing or moving oxygen cylinders must strictly avoid mixing them with oil or fat-containing items. If any area is contaminated, it must be thoroughly cleaned before use.

3. When storing and transporting oxygen cylinders, always use protective caps on the nozzles to prevent dirt, dust, or mechanical damage that could introduce contaminants.

4. Personnel handling oxygen cylinders should not wear work clothes, gloves, or other equipment that has been contaminated with oil or grease. This reduces the risk of transferring contaminants to the cylinder or its accessories.

5. If a cylinder becomes contaminated with oil or grease, it should be cleaned using carbon tetrachloride or a suitable non-flammable detergent. Never use flammable solvents, as they could create additional hazards.

China Labor Insurance Network