Inert Gas Tank Valve Removal

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I recently purchased a 20 cu ft inert gas cylinder.  I need to remove the valve.  I believe it is a cga 580 valve.  What would be the easiest way to remove this valve?
Reply:just go swap it for whatever bottle you wantis that not your purpose? you just want to take the valve off the bottle?
Reply:No, we need to use the tank shell for low pressure rocket propellant burn rate testing.  We have an attachment that screws into the valve hole on the tank.  Problem is, we are having a tough time getting the valve off.  Before anyone goes off on a tangent about not using the tank for its intended, you should know that this project has been designed well within the structural capabilities of the materials and has been designed by a group of Aerospace Engineering students and faculty at Arizona State U.Last edited by bgood44; 11-04-2008 at 07:59 PM.
Reply:[QUOTE=bgood44;223840]...you should know that this project ...has been designed by a group of Aerospace Engineering students and faculty at...[QUOTE]No offense, but with all those credentials someone can't figure out how to turn the valve out?To save the valve you need a tight fitting heavy wrench that will not flex or spread.If you're not trying to save the valve you could clamp it in a vise or use a decent pipe wrench on it. Probably a chain wrench to hold or turn the cylinder; depends what you have available.Good Luck
Reply:Obviously, anyone who can turn a screw can figure out how to remove a valve.  It was an issue of what tools to use to remove it without damage.  I should have been more clear in my question.  Would something like a monkey wrench work?
Reply:I know they are screwed in with a machine i saw it on how its made. My local guy just screws them out when he hydro tests them so the water drains out. He has a fixture to hold the bottle tight then uses a big cresent wrench. You could chain bind it down so it doesn't spin...BobBob WrightSalem, Ohio  Birthplace of the Silver & Deming Drillhttp://groups.yahoo.com/group/southbend10k/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sawking/1999 Miller MM185 w/ Miller 185 Spoolmate spoolgun
Reply:Originally Posted by bgood44...Would something like a monkey wrench work?
Reply:Most of those valves are put in with a loctite type of material, so get ready to wrestle. They do come out but breaking them free is usually a contest.
Reply:Im not sure exactly what tools my group has available, as I haven't been working with them for very long.  I do know it is limited.  I will the check "arsenal" next time I am able to get into the shop.Thanks for the Quick responses guys!
Reply:If you could buddy up with the local well drill driller, and convince him it's safe to pull the valve, -and that you're not a terrorist- that valve will be loose in a minute.Good Luck
Reply:I'd call LWSs and ask if they will loosen it for you.  My LWS removed and reinstalled a valve without charge to fix a leak at the threads.  They may have a liability concern with helping you on your project, but at least you could ask them for some tips on how to do it yourself.TeddCoHTP Microcut 400 & Invertig 160DC  Smith Dual Guard MD-510 OA Rig  Lincoln SP135+  Hobart Stickmate LX 235/160