Disposing of Gas Cylinders?

Hacksaw -- very nice work. I can see why they are popular.

There must be millions of these disposable bottles worldwide that get thrown in the garbage or recycle bins but we never seem to hear reports of explosions etc. I suppose theoretically if the cylinder is full of gas but no air it can't explode? I would think they get sorted out at the garbage dump when recyclables are separated in most places. Otherwise buried in landfill so no great hazard. There is plenty of explosive methane gas coming out of those places anyway.

As far as drilling, cutting and welding etc of old gas bottles, it makes me a little nervous. I would never do that to a petrol tank or petrol tin without steam cleaning it first and filling with inert gas such as CO2 or argon. They do explode fairly regularly when being welded by careless bush mechanics and the like. Not sure how gas compares when it comes to lurking in seams and pores in the metal and lying in wait for the unsuspecting?

Edited By Hopper on 08/05/2021 01:02:52

Jeff, refilling can be done but is dangerous if done without knowing what you are doing. I have refillable propane bottles for the Motorhome, just refill at an Autogas pump at the garage. BUT they have a float valve that cuts off at 80% full. This is to allow for expansion as they warm up, other wise the liquid propane comes out not gas. Bottles without a float have to be weighed as they are filled to ensure 80% max filling. Not something I would attempt.