BS EN ISO 24431:2016

BSI Standards Publication

Gas cylinders — Seamless,

welded and composite
cylinders for compressed and
liquefied gases (excluding
acetylene) — Inspection at time
of filling (ISO 24431:2016)
BS EN ISO 24431:2016 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN ISO
24431:2016. It supersedes BS ISO 24431:2006 which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee PVE/3/7, Gas containers - Gas cylinder (receptacle)
operations.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be
obtained on request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct
application.
© The British Standards Institution 2016.
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2016
ISBN 978 0 580 82547 7
ICS 23.020.35
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 December 2016.
Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication
Date Text affected
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN ISO 24431
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM November 2016

ICS 23.020.35

English Version

Gas cylinders - Seamless, welded and composite cylinders

for compressed and liquefied gases (excluding acetylene) -
Inspection at time of filling (ISO 24431:2016)
Bouteilles à gaz - Bouteilles à gaz comprimés et Gasflaschen - Nahtlose, geschweißte und Composite-
liquéfiés (à l'exception de l'acétylène) sans soudure, Flaschen für verdichtete und verflüssigte Gase
soudées et composites - Contrôle au moment du (ausgenommen Acetylen) - Inspektion zum Zeitpunkt
remplissage (ISO 24431:2016) des Füllens (ISO 24431:2016)

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 13 September 2016.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

© 2016 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 24431:2016 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
BS EN ISO 24431:2016
EN ISO 24431:2016 (E)

European foreword

This document (EN ISO 24431:2016) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 58 “Gas
cylinders” in collaboration with Technical Committee CEN/TC 23 “Transportable gas cylinders” the
secretariat of which is held by BSI.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by May 2017, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by May 2017.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent
rights.

This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association.

According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and the United Kingdom.

Endorsement notice

The text of ISO 24431:2016 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 24431:2016 without any modification.

3
 BS EN ISO 24431:2016
ISO 24431:2016(E)


Contents Page

Foreword......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... iv
Introduction...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................v
1 Scope.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
2 Normative references....................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
3 Terms and definitions...................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
4 Identification of cylinder owner........................................................................................................................................................... 4
5 Filling inspection................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
5.1 General............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.2 Verification of serviceable condition of individual cylinders before filling......................................... 5
5.2.1 General criteria................................................................................................................................................................... 5
5.2.2 Exterior condition............................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.2.3 Interior condition............................................................................................................................................................. 7
5.2.4 Cylinder tare......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
5.2.5 Calculation of weight of gas to be filled into the cylinder.............................................................. 8
5.2.6 Provisions for visually inspecting cylinders fitted with coverings........................................ 8
5.2.7 Verification of the integrity of permanent attachments................................................................. 9
5.2.8 Verification of valve integrity and suitability........................................................................................... 9
5.2.9 Provisions for palletized cylinders................................................................................................................. 10
5.2.10 Rejected cylinders......................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.3 Verification during filling............................................................................................................................................................. 10
5.4 Verification after filling.................................................................................................................................................................. 10
5.4.1 General................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.4.2 Verification of gas tightness................................................................................................................................. 10
5.4.3 Verification of correct filling pressure........................................................................................................ 11
5.4.4 Verification of correct filling weight............................................................................................................. 11
5.4.5 Verification of valve protection......................................................................................................................... 11
5.4.6 Verification of correct product labelling................................................................................................... 11
6 Cylinders rejected for filling...................................................................................................................................................................11
Annex A (informative) Residual pressure check....................................................................................................................................12
Annex B (informative) Example of a procedure to establish a correct tare...............................................................13
Bibliography.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 14

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Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation on the meaning of ISO specific terms and expressions related to conformity assessment,
as well as information about ISO’s adherence to the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the
Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see the following URL: www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
The committee responsible for this document is ISO/TC 58, Gas cylinders, Subcommittee SC 4,
Operational requirements for gas cylinders.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 24431:2006), which has been technically
revised with the following changes.
— This edition has been restructured and includes additional provisions for the inspection before,
during and after filling of composite cylinders (Types 2 to 5 inclusive).

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Introduction
This International Standard covers requirements that reflect current practice and experience.
Each transportable gas cylinder is inspected at the time of filling in order to establish that
— it has no defects which render it unsafe for filling or continued use,
— it can be identified and complies with the relevant requirements with regard to marking (e.g. within
test period, labelling, colour coding and completeness of its accessories), and
— its valve functions satisfactorily.
The cylinder filling inspection is carried out exclusively by persons who have the appropriate training
and competencies, so as to ensure that each cylinder is safe for continued use.
Guidance and requirements provided in this International Standard allow fillers to determine when
cylinders should be rejected for filling. This International Standard is intended to be used as a basis for
developing specific operating procedures for a filling operation.
CAUTION — Some of the tests specified in this International Standard involve the use of
processes which could lead to a hazardous situation.
This International Standard is intended to be used under a variety of national regulatory regimes, but has
been written so that it is suitable for the application of the UN Model Regulations.[1] Attention is drawn
to requirements in the relevant national regulations of the country (countries) where the cylinders are
intended to be used that might override the requirements given in this International Standard. Where
there is any conflict between this International Standard and any applicable regulation, the regulation
always takes precedence.
In International Standards, weight is equivalent to a force, expressed in Newtons. However, in common
parlance (as used in terms defined in this International Standard), the word “weight” continues to be
used to mean “mass”, although this practice is deprecated (see ISO 80000-4).

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 BS EN ISO 24431:2016
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 24431:2016(E)

Gas cylinders — Seamless, welded and composite cylinders

for compressed and liquefied gases (excluding acetylene)
— Inspection at time of filling

1 Scope
This International Standard specifies the inspection requirements at the time of filling, and applies
to seamless or welded transportable gas cylinders made of steel or aluminium-alloy (Type 1), and for
composite transportable gas cylinders (Types 2 to 5 inclusive) for liquefied or compressed gases of a
water capacity up to 150 l. It may be applicable to cylinders and tubes with a water capacity between
150 l and 450 l, provided they are inspected and filled as individual cylinders and tubes.
This International Standard does not apply to acetylene cylinders, bundles of cylinders, tubes, multiple-
element gas container (MEGCs) or battery vehicles.
This International Standard may also be applicable to LPG. For specific LPG applications, refer to
ISO 10691.
For cylinders manifolded in bundles, refer to ISO 11755.

2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 6406, Gas cylinders — Seamless steel gas cylinders — Periodic inspection and testing
ISO 7225, Gas cylinders — Precautionary labels
ISO 10460, Gas cylinders — Welded carbon-steel gas cylinders — Periodic inspection and testing
ISO 10461, Gas cylinders — Seamless aluminium-alloy gas cylinders — Periodic inspection and testing
ISO 11623, Gas cylinders — Composite construction — Periodic inspection and testing
ISO 13769, Gas cylinders — Stamp marking
ISO 25760, Gas cylinders — Operational procedures for the safe removal of valves from gas cylinders

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
compressed gas
gas which when packaged under pressure for transport is entirely gaseous at –50 °C
Note 1 to entry: This category includes all gases with a critical temperature less than or equal to –50 °C.

3.2
covering
protective or non-protective, transparent or non-transparent, device or attachment that can interfere
with an external visual inspection

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3.3
cylinder marking
permanent and durable information on the cylinder required by the relevant design standard and/or
ISO 13769 and the regulations in the country(ies) of use
3.4
empty weight
mass of the cylinder including all permanent attachments (e.g. neckring, footring), but excluding the
mass of valve, valve cap or valve guard and any coating
Note 1 to entry: See Introduction for terminology regarding weight and mass.

3.5
examination
process having the object of determining a condition by judgement
Note 1 to entry: The examination results in a pass or fail or further measurement, testing or gauging.

[SOURCE: ISO 10286:2015]

3.6
fibre
continuous filament of glass, aramid, carbon or other material
3.7
filler
person (or persons) responsible for inspection (3.10) prior to, during and immediately after filling, who
has received an appropriate level of training for the work involved
3.8
filling pressure
pressure to which a cylinder is filled at the time of filling
Note 1 to entry: Filling pressure varies according to the gas temperature in the cylinder, which is dependent on
the charging parameters and ambient conditions. It is normally higher than the working pressure (3.27) (because
of the heat of compression) and always less than the test pressure.

3.9
filling ratio
ratio of the mass of gas to the mass of water at 15 °C that would fill completely a cylinder fitted
ready for use
Note 1 to entry: Synonyms are filling factor and filling degree, often expressed in kg/l or similar.

[SOURCE: ISO 10286:2015]

3.10
inspection
evaluation of conformity by observation and judgment accompanied as appropriate by measurement,
examination (3.5), testing or gauging
[SOURCE: ISO 10286:2015]
3.11
liner
inner portion of the composite cylinder comprising a metallic or non-metallic vessel, whose purpose is
to both contain the gas and transmit the gas pressure to the composite overwrap

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3.12
liquefied gas
gas which, when packaged under pressure, is partially liquid at temperatures above –50 °C
Note 1 to entry: A distinction is made between

— high pressure liquefied gas, a gas with a critical temperature between –50 °C and +65 °C, and

— low pressure liquefied gas, a gas with a critical temperature above +65 °C.

3.13
maximum permissible filling weight
maximum permissible filling mass
maximum mass of gas in kg which is allowed in a filled cylinder
Note 1 to entry: This term applies to liquefied gas (3.12).

3.14
pallet
device for handling several cylinders at the same time
3.15
pressure relief device
device that protects the cylinder against overpressurization
Note 1 to entry: This is a collective term that includes a bursting disk, fusible plug or pressure relief valve.

3.16
protective attachments
component (or components) connected to the cylinder that prevents or resists damage to the cylinder
and/or valve
Note 1 to entry: Some protective attachments are designed to be removed at the time of requalification or prefill
inspection (3.10).

3.17
service life
number of years a cylinder is permitted to be in service
Note 1 to entry: Usually applied to composite designs, and when required, the service life is marked in accordance
with an applicable standard or regulation (e.g. “FINAL 2019/10” in ISO 13769).

3.18
sleeve
thin covering (3.2) fitted to the outside surface of the cylinder such as by stretching or heat shrinking
Note 1 to entry: Some sleeves are designed to be removed at the time of prefill inspection (3.10).

3.19
rejected cylinder
cylinder not fit for filling in its present condition
3.20
tare
weight of the cylinder when empty, including accessories fitted and coatings as presented for filling
3.21
total weight
total mass
tare (3.20) of the cylinder plus the maximum permissible filling weight (3.13)

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3.22
Type 1 cylinder
all metal cylinder
3.23
Type 2 cylinder
hoop wrapped cylinder with a load sharing metal liner (3.11) and composite reinforcement only on the
cylindrical (sidewall) part
3.24
Type 3 cylinder
fully wrapped cylinder with a load sharing metal liner (3.11) and composite reinforcement on both the
cylindrical part and dome ends
3.25
Type 4 cylinder
fully wrapped cylinder with a non-load sharing liner (3.11) and composite reinforcement on both the
cylindrical portion and the dome ends
[SOURCE: ISO 11119‑3:2013]
3.26
Type 5 cylinder
fully wrapped cylinder without a liner (3.11) and with composite reinforcement on both the cylindrical
portion and dome ends
[SOURCE: ISO 11119‑3:2013]
3.27
working pressure
settled pressure of a compressed gas (3.1) at a reference temperature of 15 °C in a full gas cylinder
Note 1 to entry: In North America, service pressure is often used to indicate a similar condition, usually at 21,1 °C
(70 °F).

Note 2 to entry: In East Asia, service pressure is often used to indicate a similar condition.

3.28
verification
confirmation, by examination (3.5) of objective evidence, that specified requirements have been fulfilled
[SOURCE: ISO 10286:2015]

4 Identification of cylinder owner

Some country’s regulations and filling organizations require verification of ownership of the cylinder
before filling and forbid to fill cylinders that are not owned by the filling organization except if the
owner has authorized filling.
The filler may request technical information from the cylinder owner to verify that the cylinder is safe
to fill.
In all cases, if the owner cannot be identified, or if the owner or owner’s representative does not
authorize the filling of the cylinder, the cylinder shall not be accepted for filling.

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5 Filling inspection

5.1 General
Each cylinder shall be inspected by the filler before, during and immediately after filling, as indicated
in this Clause.

5.2 Verification of serviceable condition of individual cylinders before filling

5.2.1 General criteria

The filler shall establish that

a) the information required for filling (e.g. next requalification date, filling pressure, gas identification)
is present on the cylinder,
b) the cylinder and/or valve are not on a prohibited fill list,
c) the cylinder has not exceeded its due date for periodic inspection and testing,
d) the cylinder has not exceeded its service life (if applicable),
e) the cylinder and valve (such as valve outlet, material of construction and specification) are
compatible with the intended gas content and the condition (pressure or weight as applicable) to
which the cylinder is to be filled,
f) the cylinder is permitted for filling in the country of the filling station,
g) the cylinder has not been subject to unauthorized modifications, and
h) the intended gas contents correspond to any identification label and shoulder or body colour on the
cylinder through verification of the cylinder’s markings and the colour coding (e.g. by reference to
ISO 7225 and ISO 32) or by questioning the owner of the cylinder.
NOTE Not all countries require standardized colours.

Cylinders not meeting these criteria shall be rejected for filling and handled in accordance with Clause 6.

5.2.2 Exterior condition

5.2.2.1 General requirements

Before an individual cylinder can be filled, the filler shall establish that
a) the cylinder does not show any signs of having undergone any unauthorized modifications, such as
but not limited to, welding of attachments to the cylinder or additional stamp markings,
b) the external surface of the cylinder is clean and free of foreign material (i.e. such that the cylinder
can be assessed for physical damage that would prevent it from being filled safely). Possible
variations to this are those cylinders fitted with a covering or protective attachment, in which case,
the requirements of 5.2.6 shall first be considered, and
c) the cylinder is free from abnormalities as described in ISO 6406, ISO 10460, ISO 10461 or ISO 11623.
Typical abnormalities include, but are not limited to
— arc burns,
— bulging,
— cracks,

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— dents,
— deep cuts,
— gouges,
— severe corrosion,
— unauthorized stamp markings,
— heat/fire damage (e.g. discoloration of coating, charred or burnt paint and/or labelling, melted
or distorted plastic valve handwheel or other attachments), or
— mechanical damage.
In addition, cylinders of composite design (Types 2 to 5) shall include an inspection of the composite
material for these abnormalities, as well as those described in 5.2.2.2. In particular, composite cylinders
with coverings that exhibit exterior impact damage shall be handled in accordance with 5.2.6.
Cylinders not meeting these criteria shall be rejected for filling and handled in accordance with
Clause 6. In case of doubt or obvious abnormalities, the cylinder shall be rejected for filling and handled
in accordance with Clause 6.

5.2.2.2 Additional provisions for composite cylinders (Types 2 to 5)

5.2.2.2.1 Composite overwrap

Composite cylinders can exhibit unique damage of their composite overwrap and thus shall be inspected
for the following.
a) Abrasion damage. Abrasion damage is caused by wearing, grinding or rubbing away by friction
of the overwrap material. “Flat spots” evident on the surface could indicate excessive loss of
composite overwrap thickness.
b) Damage from cuts. Cuts or gouges are caused by contact with sharp objects in such a way as to cut
into the composite overwrap, reducing its thickness at that point.
c) Impact damage. Impact damage can appear as hairline cracks in the resin, or delamination or cuts
of the composite overwrap. The resin can have a frosted or smashed appearance.
d) Delamination. Delamination is a separation of layers of strands, or of the strands themselves, of
the composite overwrap. It also can appear as a whitish patch, like a blister or an air space beneath
the surface.
e) Heat or fire damage. Heat or fire damage can be evident by discolouration, charring, loss of resin
or burning of the composite overwrap, labels, paint or non-metallic components of the valve.
f) Chemical attack. Chemical attack would appear as the dissolution of the resin matrix surrounding
the fibres. The resulting cylinder surface can be pitted, feel soft/sticky, discoloured, etc.
When it is suspected that a composite cylinder has undergone a chemical attack, care should be taken
in handling the cylinder to ensure protection of personnel.
Rejection criteria shall be established for composite cylinders in a written procedure of the filling
station or the rejection criteria given in ISO 11623 shall be followed. The rejection criteria established
by the filling station shall be based on those in ISO 11623.

5.2.2.2.2 Metallic liner external corrosion

Under certain conditions, some metallic liners (or metallic end bosses) can corrode externally under the
composite material. Such corrosion can appear as brownish, reddish or white discoloration or blistering.

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Cylinders with metallic liners that show evidence of corrosion or are suspected to be corroded shall be
rejected for filling and handled in accordance with Clause 6.

5.2.2.2.3 Neck inspection for Types 3, 4 and 5 cylinders

The necks of Types 3, 4 and 5 cylinders shall be inspected for deformation and damage.
Type 4 and Type 5 cylinders have a metallic boss attached to the liner (Type 4) or a metallic boss
attached to the composite material (Types 4 and 5). Inspect the boss for looseness, signs of deformation,
misalignment and damage.
Cylinders with any evidence of neck or boss damage, deformation, looseness or misalignment shall be
rejected for filling and handled in accordance with Clause 6.

5.2.3 Interior condition

Before filling, the presence of liquid that could have caused internal corrosion shall be established. The
presence of liquid can be established, for example, by
— verification of residual pressure (see Annex A for guidance),
— verification of weight,
— performing a moisture analysis,
— inverting the cylinder with the valve open,
— performing a hammer test on Type 1 steel cylinders, or
— any other method that can verify the presence of liquid.
Ingress of liquid combined with particular gas/cylinder material combinations (e.g. CO or CO2 mixtures
and steel) can cause corrosion and/or damage to the cylinder’s internal surface. See also ISO 11114-1
and ISO 11114-2 for additional examples of gas interactions with cylinder materials.
Filling stations shall develop and comply with a written procedure to address liquid ingress.
A visual internal inspection of the cylinder shall be performed if liquid is detected or whenever the
valve is removed.
The requirements of ISO 25760 shall be followed to remove the valve.
WARNING — Failing to follow ISO 25760 requirements can cause loss of life, injury and/or
property damage.

5.2.4 Cylinder tare

5.2.4.1 General

Only a clean cylinder empty of product and including its accessories fitted and coatings as presented for
filling shall be weighed, as shown in Table 1.
When a tare is required for filling, the cylinders shall not be filled until the correct tare is determined
and marked on the cylinder. The tare shall be deemed incorrect if it is not marked on the cylinder or if
there are doubts about its validity. Doubts about validity can be raised by an illegible stamp marking, a
suspected change (or absence) of guard, a suspected change of valve, etc.

5.2.4.2 Verification

The validity of the tare shall be verified for cylinders that are required by regulation to be filled by
weight. Care shall be taken not to confuse tare weight with empty weight.

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The validity of the tare does not need to be verified if

— special valves are used that prevent ingress of contamination (e.g. non-return/positive pressure
valves), provided it has been verified that the special valve is functioning as intended,
— LPG cylinders are fitted with special valves that prevent overfilling, or
— it can be guaranteed by appropriate verifications (e.g. inversion of cylinder) at the time of filling that
no liquid or other detrimental contamination exists in the cylinder.
If these conditions cannot be met, the validity of the tare shall be verified at the start of the filling
process, when the fully depressurized cylinder is placed on the filling scale. The tare marked on the
cylinder shall be verified by the scale weight reading within the tolerances given in Table 1.
The tare of the cylinders shall be obtained using a scale that is regularly calibrated (e.g. every year) and
checked (e.g. every day) for accuracy. The capacity of the scale shall be suitable for the weight of the
cylinder. The scale shall allow a determination of the tare to three significant figures.

Table 1 — Maximum difference between scale weight reading to marked tare weight
Cylinder water capacity (V) Maximum weight deviation
l g
0,5 ≤ V < 1,0a ±25
1,0 ≤ V < 5,0 ±50
5,0 ≤ V ≤ 20 ±200
V > 20 ±400
a For cylinders with less than 0,5 l of water capacity, the maximum weight deviation should be
reduced to a value less than 25 g.

5.2.4.3 Alteration

When a tare needs to be altered, a diagonal line shall be drawn through the obsolete tare, if present, in
such a way that it remains legible for future reference. If more than one obsolete tare exists, only the
original tare (with a diagonal line drawn through it) shall be retained for reference alongside the new
tare. The other obsolete tare(s) shall be removed from the cylinder, while taking care not to damage its
integrity.
Annex B provides an example of a procedure to establish a correct tare.

5.2.5 Calculation of weight of gas to be filled into the cylinder

The amount of liquefied gas filled into a cylinder shall be determined by weight or, if filled at a pressure
lower than the vapour pressure, by pressure shown on a vapour pressure/temperature chart for the
specific gas. The weight of gas to be filled into a cylinder shall be determined from the water capacity
and the filling ratio for the specific gas, or by the maximum permissible filling weight, if indicated.

5.2.6 Provisions for visually inspecting cylinders fitted with coverings

Many cylinders, especially those of composite construction, are fitted with coverings such as
— sleeves,
— casings,
— netting,
— decals and labels that have been applied during service,
— footring,

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— shroud, or
— shock absorbers.
Prior to carrying out a visual inspection, clean the covering, if necessary, using a suitable cleaning
agent and:
a) If the covering is transparent and allows the filler to make a direct visual inspection, a visual
external inspection may be performed without removing the covering.
b) If the covering is opaque or translucent or interferes with a direct visual inspection, procedures
shall be provided to either evaluate the surface condition without removing the covering or to
remove the covering if so permitted. This procedure shall define which coverings shall be removed
and provide directions to evaluate cylinders when the cover cannot be removed. The procedure
shall be based on manufacturer instructions regarding the removal of the cover.
Some coverings are an integral part of the cylinder design and shall not be removed. In these cases, the
cylinder manufacturer shall provide the rejection criteria of these cylinders for filling and the rejection
criteria shall be specified in the inspection procedures. In cases of doubt, these cylinders shall be
rejected for filling.

5.2.7 Verification of the integrity of permanent attachments

Before filling a cylinder, the filler shall establish whether the neckring/threaded boss and guard (if
fitted) are fit for the intended purposes, and whether the neckring, if one exists, is securely affixed to
the cylinder. If there is a permanent valve guard or a welded-on shroud, it shall be checked to ensure
that it is securely attached. Similarly, the integrity of the footring, if fitted, shall be verified to ensure
that it is fit for its intended purpose. If the condition is in doubt or known to render the cylinder unsafe
for service, reject the cylinder.

5.2.8 Verification of valve integrity and suitability

The filler shall establish that the valve and the valve outlet connection comply with the intended gas
service and that the valve is suitable for the intended filling pressure.
As a minimum, the filler shall establish that the valve is undamaged by verifying that:
a) the valve is free from contaminants and signs of leakage;
b) the valve shows no signs of looseness as installed in the cylinder;
c) the handwheel or operating mechanism functions as intended;
CAUTION — If this action involves opening the valve, then precautions shall be taken. This
operation could lead to the release of gases under pressure that are harmful to the operator
and/or the environment. Hazards include toxicity, flammability, oxidizing potential,
asphyxiation and reaction forces due to high pressure gas release. Consequently, this
process shall follow a written procedure that has considered the potential hazards.
d) the pressure relief device, if required, is present, undamaged and suitable for the intended gas
service;
e) the residual pressure device, if present, is undamaged and the cylinder has residual pressure;
f) for valves fitted with a dedicated filling port, that the filling port thread is undamaged;
g) the outlet thread and body are undamaged; and
h) the valve attaches correctly to the filling connector.
If any of these conditions are not met, the cylinder shall be rejected for filling and handled in accordance
with Clause 6.

© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved  9

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ISO 24431:2016(E)


5.2.9 Provisions for palletized cylinders

Palletized cylinders may only be filled without unloading the cylinders from the pallet if written
procedures that ensure that these cylinders have been inspected individually in accordance with 5.2
are in place.

5.2.10 Rejected cylinders

Those cylinders found to be in a doubtful or unserviceable condition or are found unsuitable shall be
rejected for filling. These cylinders shall be identified and handled in accordance with Clause 6.

5.3 Verification during filling

During the filling cycle of a cylinder, the filler shall determine that
a) the operation is progressing satisfactorily (e.g. by verifying that the filling pressure is increasing
and that either the cylinder’s weight or its temperature is increasing as appropriate), and
b) the valve does not leak when connected and in the open position (e.g. by means of a leak test fluid
compatible with the gas service, the cylinder and the valve).
If the filling process is not proceeding satisfactorily, the filling should be stopped and investigated
and rectifications made. Factors that can cause the filling process not to proceed satisfactorily include
blockage in the fill system, a valve malfunction or human error. This can result into a case where one
cylinder out of a filling charge remains unfilled. If this is detected during or at the end of the filling
process, then the opening of the valve of the unfilled cylinder can lead to adiabatic compression and
subsequent flash fire (oxygen) or rupture (other gases).
NOTE For valves with additional features, such as integrated regulation of pressure, further verifications
might be required at the time of filling.

Special attention is drawn to the fast filling of high pressure composite cylinders (Types 3, 4 and 5)
as the composite material used in the manufacture of the cylinders is a good insulator and so the
heat generated in the filling process takes longer to dissipate than with traditional metal cylinders.
Consequently, a Type 3, 4 or 5 cylinder filled to normal filling pressure, particularly if filled quickly, can
reach excessive temperatures during filling, which could lead to damage to the plastic liner. Cylinder
manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed.

5.4 Verification after filling

5.4.1 General

The filler shall ensure that valve plugs and other ancillaries are fitted as required.

5.4.2 Verification of gas tightness

The filler shall ensure that the cylinder’s valve and pressure relief device do not leak when the valve is
closed and disconnected from the fill connection. If leakage is suspected, verify for seat leakage at the
valve outlet. In addition, the interface between the valve and the cylinder shall be inspected to ensure
that there is no leakage.
For welded cylinders, attention shall be paid to the welds to ensure that the cylinder is free from leaks.
For Type 4 and Type 5 composite cylinders, the filler shall also ensure that the cylinder is free from
leaks at the boss-composite interface and around the dome of the cylinder.

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 BS EN ISO 24431:2016
ISO 24431:2016(E)


5.4.3 Verification of correct filling pressure

For cylinders filled with compressed gas, the filler shall ensure that the filled pressure is consistent
with the intended working pressure according to the reference temperature.
If the filled pressure is not correct, it shall be rectified.

5.4.4 Verification of correct filling weight

For liquefied gases, the filling weight shall be verified after disconnecting from the fill connection to
ensure that the cylinder is not overfilled.
For compressed gases filled by weight, a verification of the filling pressure shall be carried out in
accordance with 5.4.3.
NOTE There are gases such as boron trifluoride, silane and silicon tetrafluoride that, although defined as
liquefied, are completely gaseous at normal fill or transport temperatures. Some competent authorities consider
them non-liquefied compressed gases.

If the cylinder is under- or overfilled, it shall be rectified.

5.4.5 Verification of valve protection

If valve protection is fitted prior to dispatch, it shall be verified that the protection device is securely
affixed to the cylinder and not damaged or deformed in such a manner that affects its integrity.

5.4.6 Verification of correct product labelling

The cylinder shall be checked to ensure that it is labelled in accordance with the applicable requirements
for the product contained in the cylinder. In the absence of regulatory requirements, cylinders shall be
labelled in accordance with ISO 7225.

6 Cylinders rejected for filling

Cylinders rejected for filling shall be clearly identified as having been rejected and shall not be filled.
These cylinders shall be handled in accordance with the relevant procedures of the filling station. These
procedures shall include at least one of the following:
— sending the cylinders to an inspection facility for further evaluation;
— repairing the cylinders by qualified personnel;
— returning the cylinders to the owner.
If it is not possible to recover a rejected cylinder, it shall be condemned by rendering it unserviceable as
described in and in accordance with the relevant periodic inspection and testing standards.

© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved  11

BS EN ISO 24431:2016
ISO 24431:2016(E)


Annex A
(informative)

Residual pressure check

A.1 General
A residual pressure check may be carried out using the following procedure.
CAUTION — Carrying out residual pressure checks could lead to the release of gases under
pressure that are harmful to the operator and/or the environment. These hazards include
toxicity, flammability, oxidizing potential, asphyxiation and reaction forces due to high pressure
gas release. Consequently, this process shall follow a written procedure that has considered the
potential hazards.

A.2 Pressure check with gas emitted

Open the cylinder valve to check for residual pressure. If gas is emitted, the cylinder may be filled.

A.3 Pressure check with no gas emitted

A.3.1 General
Open the cylinder valve to check for residual pressure. If no gas is emitted, the following steps shall
be taken.

A.3.2 Case 1 — Valves fitted with a residual pressure device

The functioning of the residual pressure device shall be verified. This could require the use of a
special tool.
If the check shows that the residual pressure device has retained pressure, the cylinder may be filled.
If the check shows that the residual pressure device has not retained pressure, the internal condition of
the cylinder shall be checked for contamination.
— If no contamination is detected, the cylinder may be filled following repair or replacement of the
residual pressure device if necessary.
— If contamination is detected, corrective action shall be carried out prior to filling.

A.3.3 Case 2 — Valve without residual pressure function

The internal condition of the cylinder shall be checked for contamination.
— If no contamination is detected, the cylinder may be filled.
— If contamination is detected, a corrective action shall be carried out prior to filling.

12  © ISO 2016 – All rights reserved

 BS EN ISO 24431:2016
ISO 24431:2016(E)


Annex B
(informative)

Example of a procedure to establish a correct tare

A correct tare may be determined by using the following procedure.

a) If the cylinder is valved, perform all necessary purges and evacuations in order to safely devalve
the cylinder.
b) Remove the valve (see ISO 25760).
c) Visually inspect the interior and exterior of the cylinder for corrosion, the exterior for excess
paint and the interior for contamination. If necessary, clean (e.g. for Type 1 cylinders, by means
of shotblast). If excessive corrosion has been observed, the cylinder shall be subjected to a full
periodic inspection and test before returned to service.
d) Weigh cylinder on a calibrated scale.
1) Place on the scale the empty cylinder with all required paint and or coatings together with the
intended valve, including dip tube (where fitted), any fixed-valve guard and all other parts that
are permanently attached to the cylinder (e.g. by clamping or bolted fixing), and weigh.
2) From this reading, establish the correct tare for the cylinder, valve and any permanently
attached parts.
e) Obliterate the old tare weight.
1) For cylinders with a stamped tare weight, this shall be carried out by stamping a diagonal line
through the old tare.
2) For cylinders where the tare weight is indicated on a label under the composite, the old tare
weight shall be covered with a new label instead of being stamped out.
f) Mark the new tare weight.
1) For cylinders with a stamped tare weight, the new tare shall be expressed in kg to three
significant figures rounded down to the last digit (see ISO 13769).
2) For cylinders where the tare weight is indicated on a label, the new tare shall be marked on a
label and the label affixed to the cylinder by a durable means.

© ISO 2016 – All rights reserved  13

BS EN ISO 24431:2016
ISO 24431:2016(E)


Bibliography

[1] UN Model Regulations, Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods — Model

Regulations, as amended
[2] ISO 32, Gas cylinders for medical use — Marking for identification of content
[3] ISO 10286, Gas cylinders — Terminology
[4] ISO 10691, Gas cylinders — Refillable welded steel cylinders for liquified petroleum gas (LPG) —
Procedures for checking before, during and after filling
[5] ISO 11114-1, Gas cylinders — Compatibility of cylinder and valve materials with gas contents —
Part 1: Metallic materials
[6] ISO 11114-2, Gas cylinders — Compatibility of cylinder and valve materials with gas contents —
Part 2: Non-metallic materials
[7] ISO 11119-3, Gas cylinders — Refillable composite gas cylinders and tubes — Design, construction
and testing — Part 3: Fully wrapped fibre reinforced composite gas cylinders and tubes up to 450L
with non-load-sharing metallic or non-metallic liners
[8] ISO 11755, Gas cylinders — Cylinder bundles for compressed and liquefied gases (excluding
acetylene) — Inspection at time of filling
[9] ISO 15996, Gas cylinders — Residual pressure valves — General requirements and type testing
[10] ISO 80000-4, Quantities and units — Part 4: Mechanics

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