Phosphorus trifluoride cylinder failure /

A mild steel, high pressure gas cylinder containing phosphorus trifluoride failed in storage about 15 months after filling. Microscopic and metallographic examinations of the failed cylinder have shown the failure to have probably been the result of stress corrosion of the mild steel. The similarity to failure of carbon monoxide gas cylinders is pointed out. Specific recommendations for future use and storage of phosphorus trifluoride cylinders are presented. These include among others limiting the filling pressure to less than 1000 psia and a maximum period of storage not to exceed one year."Date of issue: April 3, 1969 ; Report Number: K-1772 ; Subject Category: Health and Safety."A mild steel, high pressure gas cylinder containing phosphorus trifluoride failed in storage about 15 months after filling. Microscopic and metallographic examinations of the failed cylinder have shown the failure to have probably been the result of stress corrosion of the mild steel. The similarity to failure of carbon monoxide gas cylinders is pointed out. Specific recommendations for future use and storage of phosphorus trifluoride cylinders are presented. These include among others limiting the filling pressure to less than 1000 psia and a maximum period of storage not to exceed one year.U.S. Atomic Energy Commission Contract ;Mode of access: Internet