Brass Alloy for Pressurized Cylinders

[nelligoon]

Gentleman and Ladies. I am not a professional to your degree but need some direction. I only put Marine/Ocean as my profession because I don't fit into another category. I am a Firefighter/Paramedic by profession. I am overseas trying to have a valve made for both SCUBA cylinders and home use oxygen cylinders. I believe that brass has a small percentage of lead in the alloy. Can someone advise me or point me in the direction where I could find out if cylinder valves for breathing air (SCUBA) and oxygen are required to be lead free. Also, any other areas of direction you could point me in to find out about DOT approval, etc. Thanks so much. Bob Nelligan

 

[metengr]

I am overseas trying to have a valve made for both SCUBA cylinders and home use oxygen cylinders. I believe that brass has a small percentage of lead in the alloy. Can someone advise me or point me in the direction where I could find out if cylinder valves for breathing air (SCUBA) and oxygen are required to be lead free. Also, any other areas of direction you could point me in to find out about DOT approval, etc.

I would NOT make any attempt at reverse engineering or designing a replacement valve. Visit the web site below

http://www.cganet.com/Publication.asp

I would order a replacement valve from a reputable source that deals with SCUBA or SCBA tanks. Do NOT take any chances on trying to save money or purchasing a valve that is not suitable for SCUBA or SCBA tanks.

 

[nelligoon]

Let me clarify my question. I can see where my request was misleading and thanks metengr for the lead to the website. I am trying to find information on the metal requirements for those cylinder valves for manufacturing purposes. Specifically regarding the trace lead usually found in brass. I am not trying to use the same valve for oxygen and SCUBA. I have been in contact with manufacturers overseas regarding the manufacture (large quantity) of SCUBA valves and also manufacture of a separate cylinder valve for home use oxygen. Also, any other areas of direction you could point me in to find out about DOT approval, testing, etc. Thanks

 

[MikeHalloran]

To get an appreciation for the number of alloys that are identified as 'brass', go to copper.org.

The most common screw machine alloy, Free Cutting Brass, alloy 360, or 36000, does have lead, about 6 pct if memory serves.

I was once involved in purchase of brass extrusions from a NAFTA source, allegedly of that alloy, supplied with certs. During investigation of an unrelated problem, our parts were analyzed at 16 to 22 pct lead. At least they weren't radioactive.

I can't answer your question about whether leaded metal is or is not allowed in scba or oxygen service.



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[unclesyd]

Home use breathing oxygen and air cylinders contents have to carry a USP label. It looks like the cylinders proper has to meet a CFR regulation.
I would contact the USP org and to see what the requirements for O2 and Air are.
Good luck with the the CFR's.
I would also take a look at different valve suppliers and see id they mention any regulations. I think all cylinder valves have to meet a Cylinder Gas Association regulation.