What position must you ship cylinders of refrigerant?

• A. Upright
• B. Horizontal
• C. Diagonal
• D. Upside down

Answer: (A)

Position them upright when shipping cylinders of refrigerant. Refrigerants are often liquefied gases under pressure, so keeping the cylinder vertical puts the liquid at the bottom and the gas at the top. This arrangement prevents liquid from flowing into the valve or regulator during movement, reducing the risk of a liquid slug entering the valve, damaging the regulator, or causing an uncontrolled release. Laying the cylinder on its side or upside down can push liquid into the valve and create instability or damage, while a diagonal position isn’t as stable for transport. Keeping the cylinder upright (with the valve cap in place) is the standard, safer way to ship refrigerant cylinders.