Transporting A2Ls in Service Vans

Can A2L Refrigerant Containing Cylinders Be Transported in Service Vans?

 

One of our most frequent customer questions is, “Can I carry an A2L refrigerant containing cylinders in my service van? And if so, how much?”.  In this tip we will try to provide some guidance on the US Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations that govern cylinder transportation.

Short answer…yes. Cylinders containing A2L refrigerants can be carried in service vans.  DOT allows for a maximum of 440lbs. of combined refrigerants (A2L and others).  Vans carrying 440lbs. or less do not need special placarding. However, if a van is carrying 1001lbs or more in refrigerants, a special placard will need to be attached to the van. The specific placards needed depend on the types of refrigerants being carried.  The drivers must also have hazmat training when carrying 1001lbs of refrigerant. Vehicles carrying more than 440lbs but less than 1001lbs do not need placards but have special requirements beyond those needed for a service van.[KQ1] 

Do my cylinders need to be placed in the van in a certain way?

DOT specifies how the cylinders in a van need to be carried[WD2] .  The rules specify that any A2L refrigerant containing cylinder needs to be carried upright.  This is to ensure that the pressure relief valve is in contact with the vapor space of a cylinder and not the liquid.  This would allow a relatively small amount of vapor to leak should an overpressure situation occur relieving the pressure back down to a safe level.

Can technicians carrying Arkema refrigerants lay the cylinder on its side?

Yes. Arkema has a special permit (SP21513) from the DOT that allows technicians carrying Arkema manufactured A2L refrigerants to be transported with the cylinder laying horizontally.  Arkema customers wishing to do this need to carry a copy of the permit with them.  This applies to both DOT-39 and standard cylinders.  Please note that if a disposable DOT-39 cylinder is laid down with the pressure relief valve on top, the valve is already exposed to the vapor even if it is filled to capacity.

The information above relates only to current DOT rules.  Please keep in mind that states, counties, municipalities and cities may have other more strict rules in place. It is recommended that drivers consult their local authorities to ensure compliance with their rules.