On Sun, 26 Dec 2004 05:23:12 GMT, "G.R. Patterson III"
wrote:



wrote:

They also tell me that bulk medical tanks are "purged" once,
inspected, and filled. ABO tanks are "purged" twice, inspected, and
filled. Welding tanks are given a quick conformity inspection and
filled.

Where and how often? What I mean is this. I go down to a shop in Piscataway to
get my welding bottles filled. They exchange bottles there, so I actually just
pick up a new bottle. Is the "bulk bottle" the one they give to me, is it a
storage container they keep, or is it even further up the supply chain?

Kinda depends what type of facility you have locally. Some facilities
just ship out empties, and ship in full "exchange" bottles.

I'm sorry if I wasn't clear, by bulk tank, I was referring to the
typical 4+ foot tall bottle, opposed to a walk-around size O2 bottle.
I've got a set of small oxy/acet tanks that were given to me years
ago. Initially, I had to purchase a different acet tank (at a reduced
cost, trading in my obsolete tank). I pay a higher "exchange" rate
when swapping tanks. If I was leasing tanks, the "exchange" fills
would be cheaper.

"Welding" O2 tanks are inspected for hydro date, and the valves are
given a look see to ensure condition, and that they aren't valves
subject to replacement (there are bulletins occasionally against "bad"
valves). Any required repairs are accomplished, and they are filled.

"Medical" and ABO tanks go through a similiar process, but are
"purged" prior to refilling.

Our ABO exchange tanks come from somewhere outside of the local
facility, usually with only a couple of days lead time.

TC