Transporting A2Ls

In this tip, we will try to provide some basic guidance on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations that govern cylinder transportation.

 

Short answer…yes. Cylinders containing A2L refrigerants can be transported in service vans.  DOT allows for a maximum of 440 lbs. of combined refrigerants (A1 or A2L)to be transported without the need for special placarding or other DOT requirements. Vehicles carrying more than 440 lbs., but less than 1001 lbs., do not need placards but have some additional DOT requirements that should be complied with, such as HAZMAT paperwork and possibly driver training. If a vehicle is carrying more than 1001 lbs.  of refrigerants, a DOT compliant placard, or placards, will need to be attached to the vehicle. The specific placard(s) required depend on the type(s) of refrigerants being carried.  In addition, when transporting more than 1001 lbs. of refrigerant the driver of the vehicle must also be DOT HAZMAT trained and certified. The most recent version of the DOT regulations contained in 49 CFR should always be reviewed to ensure compliance.

 

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

DOT regulations indirectly specify how the cylinders in a vehicle need to be carried.  The regulations specify that any cylinder containing A2L refrigerant needs to be carried in a manner to ensure that the pressure relief valve is in contact with the vapor space of the cylinder and not the liquid space.  This typically means that many cylinders containing A2L refrigerants should be transported standing vertically.  This precaution exists to help make sure the pressure relief valve on the cylinder is able to function as designed and will safely relieve a small amount of pressure from the cylinder in an over pressure scenario. 

 

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

Yes. Arkema has a special permit (SP21513) from the DOT that allows technicians carrying Arkema Forane^® 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 during transportation.  A copy of this permit can be obtained through the DOT website, or by contacting Arkema directly.  This special permit applies only to DOT-39 and  refillable cylinders with less than 125 pound capacity.  Please note that if a disposable DOT-39 cylinder is laid horizontally with the pressure relief valve on top, the relief valve is already exposed to the vapor space, and the DOT special permit is not required for transportation.

 

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