312-11 - Acetylene Cylinder Cap Fine Thread 3-1/2-11

Essential Valve Protection for Industrial Safety

The Western Enterprises 312-11 Cylinder Cap is a critical safety component designed specifically for acetylene cylinders utilizing fine threads. In the industrial gas sector, the integrity of the cylinder valve is paramount. A sheared or damaged valve can result in catastrophic failure, turning a pressurized cylinder into a dangerous projectile or causing hazardous gas leaks. This cap is engineered to provide a robust physical barrier around the valve assembly, absorbing impact and preventing direct contact with external objects during handling, storage, and transit.

Manufactured to precise specifications, this cap features a 3-1/2" diameter with 11 threads per inch (TPI), commonly referred to as the "fine thread" standard for specific acetylene cylinder shells. It is constructed from high-quality malleable iron or steel, materials chosen for their superior tensile strength and resistance to deformation under stress. This ensures that even if the cylinder is tipped over or struck by heavy machinery, the cap will maintain its structural integrity and safeguard the delicate brass valve underneath.

Compliance with regulatory standards is a non-negotiable aspect of gas cylinder management. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandate that all compressed gas cylinders must have their valve protection caps in place whenever they are not in active use or are being transported. The 312-11 cap meets these rigorous standards, allowing distributors and end-users to transport their acetylene inventory legally and safely. Its design allows for secure threading onto the cylinder collar, ensuring it does not vibrate loose during transport.

Beyond impact protection, this cylinder cap also serves to keep the valve assembly clean. Industrial environments are often filled with dust, grit, and oils that can contaminate the valve outlet or threads. By keeping the cap screwed on when the cylinder is idle, users prevent the accumulation of debris that could otherwise compromise the regulator seal or introduce contaminants into the gas stream. This simple accessory extends the lifespan of the valve and ensures reliable performance when the cylinder is eventually put into service.