Transporting propane from one place to another is a difficult task. Every person who uses a propane grill, operates a generator, or requires propane for heating water or home space, has had a refilled tank and placed it into a vehicle. But the question that arises here is if you are doing it the right way? To be more specific, what is the correct way to pace the propane tank?
Can propane tanks lay on their side? The answer is No, a propane tank should never be placed on its side. Always transport the tank in an upright position to prevent it from falling or rolling when driving. It is not safe to put the propane tank on its side; therefore, always transport it by keeping it vertical.
Let us answer a few more critical questions related to propane transportation. Read below.
Why Can’t You Transport Propane Tanks On Their Side?
If the propane tank is placed vertically and the safety valve opens up accidentally, the gas gets bad. But, if you are carrying a propane tank laying on its side or downwards and the safety valve breaks, the gas gets terrible, in other words, lethal. The liquid propane gas expands in an instant. This is the reason why you can never transport a propane tank by lying on its side.
How To Transport Propane Tanks In A Car?
Compressed or liquified propane cylinders should never be transported horizontally in a car. If the tank is required to be placed downwards, there are suitable support devices to prevent the cylinder from falling or rolling over. However, it is strongly recommended not to carry any gas cylinder by placing it on the vehicle’s passenger seat.
Click on the link to watch how to place a propane tank safely into the vehicle for transportation.
Can A 100lb Propane Tank Be Laid On Its Side?
A full 100lb propane tank can weigh more than 180 pounds. Therefore, it is essential to ask for assistance to keep the tank safely in the vehicle. You should never think of transporting a 100lb gas cylinder lying on its side in an SUV or sedan. However, the side position might work for a tank weighing 20lb or less – only once in older tanks. The new technology tanks automatically shut off if they get tipped, as they have the OPD (overfilling prevention device) in them.
Can Propane Tanks Explode?
Since Propane gas is explosive, propane tanks are sometimes at the risk of exploding, but the explosion of a propane LPG (liquified petroleum gas) tank is very rare. The propane tanks consist of a pressure release valve. If the internal pressure of the tanks becomes too high, the tank will not explode, but it would vent out the propane gas into the car, which in turn can actually be explosive.
Quick Safety Tips To Transport Propane Tank
- Never place a filled propane cylinder inside a hot vehicle.
- Always place the tank in the well-ventilated vehicle space.
- The valve of the tank should always be kept closed. If required, consider sealing it with a plug to avoid any leakage.
- As soon as you reach your destination, the tank should be removed immediately from the vehicle.
