[VAC] Re: Alum Propane tanks

[Chris Bryant <list@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

	Yep- there are a couple of things to keep in mind with the new
style hoses- even though they look nearly identical, there is a
difference between RV and grill rated hoses. One of the features in
the new fittings is that they have a much more positive excess flow
valve- which is a valve that will shut off the flow if the line
ruptures. The old style had an excess flow valve, but even shut, they
would flow several tens of thousands of btus of propane- the new ones
lock down nearly tight.
	The trouble with the grill rated fittings is that the "trip
point" was too close to what an RV could actually use, so they
increased the rating for RVs.

	The other main safety feature of the new style fitting
(besides not needing a wrench) is that if you look at the base of the
plastic nut, you will see a black plastic sleeve- this sleeve is made
to melt at a low temperature, which will let the fitting back out of
the valve far enough to shut the flow of propane.

	One thing to keep in mind with the new fittings is that when
you turn a tank valve on, it is possible to trip the excess flow
valve- shutting off the gas- then you have to shut the tank valve,
bleed the pressure off, and reopen the tank valve. Just remember to
open the tank valve slowly.

-- 
Chris Bryant
mailto:bryantrv@cfl.rr.com