Propane Canister Recycling – Avoid Expensive Disposal Costs

Many companies in the manufacturing, automotive, chemical, and energy industries use propane, propylene and mapp cylinders. Medical companies and laboratories use calibration gas cylinders. Spent propane canisters fall under hazardous waste while still under pressure, making them very expensive to dispose.

Strict regulations govern hazardous waste and companies incur large fines for non-compliance. But, using Prosolv® to depressurize canisters for recycling saves on propane cylinder disposal costs and eliminates fines.

Safe, Easy Propane Canister Disposal

Residual propellant in empty propane cylinders prevent their disposal as normal trash. The Prosolv 4000 propane cylinder recycling system vents propane cylinders completely. It also removes the valve stem, opening the cylinder to the atmosphere.

Recycling propane canisters using Prosolv is 55 times cheaper than typical hazmat disposal costs. The unit pays for itself after recycling only eight propane cylinders due to this massive saving.

As a green technology, Prosolv is good for the environment. It converts a propane canister into recyclable steel, thus diverting it from landfill. The activated carbon filter removes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors, preventing the emission of these harmful gases into the air.

How to Recycle Propane Canisters with Prosolv

1. Test whether the propane cylinder is empty

Prosolv units feature color coded pressure gauges. If the gauge registers in the green zone, the cylinder is empty and the process can continue. But, if the gauge registers in the red zone, the cylinder still contains propane. Return these propane cylinders back to service as they are not ready for recycling.

This is a critical safety step in the recycling process. Using Prosolv on a cylinder in the red zone overloads the carbon filter. The release of propane gas creates an explosive atmosphere.

2. Vent the residual propellant from the propane cylinder

Even when the pressure gauge registers in the green zone, residual propellant remains. Press the Activation Button on the Prosolv unit to vent this gas through a carbon filter. Activated carbon absorbs hydrocarbons and odors to meet air quality and emissions standards. The filter also acts as a flashback arrestor to prevent ignition.

3. Remove the nylon sleeve and internal valve stem of the propane cylinder

A handle and a rotating knob remove the nylon sleeve and internal valve stem. This breaks the pressurized environment of the cylinder causing it to be open to the atmosphere. Some propane cylinders require the use of needle nosed pliers to remove the valve stem. Refer to operating instructions for guidance on different types of cylinders.

4. Use propane canister recycling tags

Each Prosolv carbon filter comes with 40 certification tags. Fit a tag to an empty propane cylinder to certify that it is vented and the valve stem has been removed. The 40 tags provide a guide for the life of the carbon filter. Once all 40 tags are used, it's time to replace the carbon filter.

Spent propane canisters with the recycling certification tag inserted are considered empty and are exempt from regulation under 40 CFR 261.6(a)(3)(iv). Recycled scrap metal is exempt from RCRA regulation under this provision.

Order Your Propane Canister Recycling Equipment Today

Justrite supplies propane disposal and recycling equipment that turns empty cylinders into recyclable steel. Qualified personnel will advise you about regulatory codes that affect your business. We help you find the best solution for your needs.

Buy your Prosolv Recycling System today.