Cylinder cart with firewall

A question we get frequently from customers is why is it safer to have a welding cart with built-in firewall barrier?

Acetylene gas, the most common gas used for fueling cutting torches burns quickly and is very easy to ignite. Even energy from a static spark can be enough to ignite it. And if the cylinder was to catch on fire while next to the oxygen cylinder it is important to prevent the oxygen cylinder from being heated to the point the pressure relief valve in the cylinder activates.

The pressure-relief valve is designed to release built up pressure to prevent rupture of the cylinder. If a cylinder is exposed to intense heat the contents will expand causing the gas to be released from the pressure-relief valve. The released gas can then mix with the burning fuel and result in a more intense flame or even explosion. Using a firewall helps to and shield the flames and escaping gases away from the other cylinder and minimize heat transfer.

The OSHA 1926.350 (a)(10) regulation states that oxygen cylinders in storage shall be separated from fuel-gas cylinders or combustible materials (especially oil or grease), a minimum distance of 20 feet (6.1 m) or by a noncombustible barrier at least 5 feet (1.5 m) high having a fire-resistance rating of at least one-half hour.

Special attention needs to be used when storing or working with acetylene or any fuel gases. The USA Safety Welding Carts with Firewall includes an integrated 1-hour rated firewall. So not only will using one of these carts provide extra safety, but it will also fulfill the OSHA requirement for separating oxygen and fuel cylinders for storage.

To get a visual of how rapidly acetylene gas will burn and how difficult it is to put out a burning cylinder please view this video:

The USA Safety Firewall Barrier products will also allow you to meet the OHSA separation requirement when storing multiple oxygen and fuel cylinders together. If you have any questions please give us a call or send an email.