Argon gas under freezing temperatures

[dizmouk2009]

Hey all,

I can't really find the right subject/category for this question so 'science' it is.

I'm using a tig welder using around 5-8 lpm (litres per minute) of argon. Due to the current weather conditions the place I am working in is at a constant of around -13 degrees C.

Does anyone know whether or not this is safe for the gas bottle or should I remove during the night? Bare in mind that it's a 5' tall bottle and isn't light :)

I'd appreciate all your ideas, thanks.

Dizmo

[wildwood]

If this requires a quick answer.... I don't know :-)

I would suggest however that you contact the gas supplier to be safe,

[NazNomad]

Argon gas must be stored at a specific temperature in order to maintain the bottle's integrity. Argon should never be stored in an area that is hotter than 122 degrees or colder than minus 22 degrees. Do not store argon bottles in direct sunlight.

http://www.ehow.co.uk...rgon-gas-bottles.html

[dizmouk2009]

Thanks you two,

I had a quick look on google but never managed to find the min and max of argon bottles. Early mornings like this and I struggle to get my boots on even :)

I sure nope that the temperature hasn't dropped below 22, although having said that argon can probably drop lower than that, just a safety warning (22) probably.

Thanks again,
Dizmo

P.S hey to everyone who has missed me :p

[dizmouk2009]

*hope, not nope.

[mjd]

The temperatures quoted by Naz should be in ºF which equate to -22ºç to +50ºC so you've more latitude than you think.

[theprof]

No, there's no need to remove the cylinder overnight. -13 degrees C is perfectly OK for argon.

I was summoned to advise on some fascinating emergency work at a northern UK laboratory a few years ago where the temperature remained at -20 degrees C for a few days. Argon was being used at the facility and was supplied from huge cylinders located in probably the biggest wooden shed I've seen in my life located nearby. There were absolutely no temperature issues with the Argon or any of the other gases stored in the shed.

I've also worked at facilities where liquefied Argon is stored in external tanks. Winter temperature falls are of no importance in the UK.