Safely cutting propane tanks for welding projects.

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I've never had a problem, but can anyone advise the safest way to purge propane tanks to be able to cut and use them for welding projects?Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Reply:Well, I have done this a couple times.My first step is to make sure its empty, or just about. (Grill some burgers)Then, I open the valve, and let the tank sit in an open field for a few hours, after that I stick my compressor air gun in their and blow it out. Depending on what type, I unscrew the valve.I wash it out with soapy water to REALLY clean it.Good to go.I KNOW other guys have their own ways, but I never take a risk and do what i can to make sure it will be completely safe.I know guys who would let it air out then throw it in a fire, or something stupid like that.
Reply:Several vent holes with .308 works well.Miller xmt304,  Miller S22 p12, Miier Maxstar SD, Miller 252 w 30A, Miller super32p12, Lincoln Ranger 9, Thermal Arc 181I with spoolgun, Hypertherm 10000 ,Smith torches. Esab 161lts miniarc.
Reply:Originally Posted by Canadian WeldingWell, I have done this a couple times.My first step is to make sure its empty, or just about. (Grill some burgers)Then, I open the valve, and let the tank sit in an open field for a few hours, after that I stick my compressor air gun in their and blow it out. Depending on what type, I unscrew the valve.I wash it out with soapy water to REALLY clean it.Good to go.I KNOW other guys have their own ways, but I never take a risk and do what i can to make sure it will be completely safe.I know guys who would let it air out then throw it in a fire, or something stupid like that.
Reply:This is what I learned in propane classes. (I clean the tank first)4.1.1 Pressurization Purging (Blowdown)Pressurization purging (blowdown) is the process of introducing a purge gas to increase the system pressure to 15 psig, followed by depressurization to the atmosphere. The pressurization purging method is considered superior to other purge methods.This procedure empties the vessel and purges the vapor space in the same process (e.g., pressure vessels, manifolds, and entire plant or platform process systems).A minimum of four pressure-depressure cycles at 15 psig will be required to purge a vessel at atmospheric pressure.If a system filled with a combustible liquid needs to be emptied and then purged, a purge gas may be applied to the vapor space at a pressure consistent with equipment design limitations.Here is where I found this particular description.https://hssestorage.blob.core.window...%20Purging.pdfThe thread where it was discussed: http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php...hlight=PurgingDave J.Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance. ~George Bernard Shaw~ Syncro 350Invertec v250-sThermal Arc 161 and 300MM210DialarcTried being normal once, didn't take....I think it was a Tuesday.
Reply:Heres a thread I started about removing the propane tank valves and cutting the tanks open.  It might answer some of your questions. http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php...hlight=PropaneLincoln Power Mig 216Lincoln AC/DC-225/125Miller  625 X-Treme PlasmaMiller 211 Forney 95FI-A 301HF 91110Victor Journeyman O/PMilwaukee DaytonMakita  Baileigh NRA Life Member
Reply:Originally Posted by GravelDo you fill it with water?
Reply:After removing the valve, put a few tablespoons of baking soda in it, then a half cup or so of vinegar. Real soon it will be full of co2
Reply:Thanks to all. I like to have my presence all over my shop, but I don't want to BE all over my shop!Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk