Unauthorized Marking of Compressed Gas Cylinders
November 16, 2011
PHMSA has recently confirmed the marking, and sale of certain high pressure DOT specification cylinders that were marked with a requalification identification number (RIN) without performing a visual inspection and hydrostatic test. The company that marked the cylinders does not have the authority from the Associate Administrator to requalify high pressure DOT cylinders. Cylinders purchased from Morgan Welding and Supply, Albion, Michigan appear to be marked “B377” on the cylinder with individually stamped letter and numbers (see example 1 below).
These cylinders did NOT undergo the complete series of safety tests and inspections required by the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) and may not possess the structural integrity to safely contain its contents under pressure during normal transportation and use. Extensive property damage, serious personal injury, or death could result from a rupture of the cylinder.
Individuals who identify a cylinder marked with the RIN “B377” which are stamped with individual letter/numbers that are not in a square pattern, are advised to remove these cylinders from service and contact Morgan Welding and Supply, Albion, MI for further instructions. Additionally, RIN number “B377” is currently authorized to Midwest Cylinder Inc., located in Cleaves, OH. Cylinders purchased from Midwest Cylinder Inc. will have the proper RIN “B377” in the recognized “square pattern” and have been properly hydrostatically requalified (see example 2 below).
Also, cylinders from Midwest Cylinder Inc. can also be identified by blue paint highlighting the approved mark. The mark, B377, has been stamped on the cylinder with a square pattern stamp so the marks will appear uniform and straight.
For more information, please contact Mr. Daniel Horosko, Owner or Mr. Matthew Stepp, Manager, Morgan Welding and Supply, 488 Finley Road, Albion, MI (517) 629-6566.
U.S. Department of Transportation
Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials
Safety Administration
Example 1, Improperly Stamped Cylinder
Example 2, Properly Stamped Cylinder
