Fire and acetylene cylinders

Acetylene presents a unique risk in comparison to all other bottled gases due to its instability. Heating or mechanical shock can cause spontaneous internal heating.

 

 

The risk of explosion remains for 24 hours unlike all other gases which are safe once the initial fire has been extinguished. If a gas cylinder explodes following a fire the resulting dangers can include a travelling fireball, flying glass and structural damage to nearby buildings. In the past, whole cylinders and fragments have travelled for 175 metres.

 

In a fire, the presence of acetylene cylinders poses a serious risk of injury to those nearby. Because of the risk of explosion a hazard zone of 200 metres radius is set up every time these cylinders are in danger of exploding at a fire.

 

 

The Fire Service follows a strict code when acetylene cylinders are known to have been, or suspected of being, affected by heat. This can include 24 hour evacuation of an extensive cordon, and playing water on the affected cylinder for 24 hours or until they are satisfied there are no hot spots. Both actions are obviously highly disruptive and damaging, and may close down roads / rail links and require the evacuation of businesses and homes.