As a subject matter expert in propane tank regulations and safety, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of propane tank expiration and re-certification.

Propane tanks, also known as LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cylinders, are not designed to have an expiration date in the traditional sense. They are built to contain and transport propane safely for many years. However, they do have a lifespan and must be re-certified periodically to ensure they remain safe for use. This re-certification process is crucial as it involves a thorough inspection and testing to verify the integrity and safety of the tank.

The **American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)** and the Department of Transportation (DOT) set standards for the manufacture and maintenance of propane tanks. According to these standards, the re-certification timeline varies depending on the size and type of the tank.

For small propane tanks, such as the 20 lb tanks commonly used for portable grills and small appliances, the re-certification process begins 12 years from the date of manufacture. This initial period is known as the "service life." At the end of this service life, the tank must be inspected and tested by a certified professional. If the tank passes the inspection, it is re-certified and given a new service life of 5 years. This 5-year period is known as the "re-certification period." After this period, the tank must be re-inspected and re-certified again if it continues to meet safety standards.

The re-certification process includes a visual inspection for any signs of damage or corrosion, a hydrostatic retest to check for structural integrity, and any necessary repairs or modifications. If a tank fails the re-certification process, it is deemed unsafe and must be removed from service.

It's important to note that the date of manufacture is typically stamped on the collar of the tank, which is a critical piece of information for determining when the tank needs to be re-certified. Homeowners and businesses should keep track of this date and ensure that their propane tanks are re-certified on time.

In addition to the re-certification requirements, there are also guidelines for the disposal of propane tanks that have reached the end of their service life. When a tank can no longer be re-certified, it must be disposed of properly to prevent any potential hazards. This usually involves taking the tank to a certified disposal facility.

In summary, while propane tanks do not have an expiration date, they do require regular re-certification to ensure they remain safe for use. The process involves a series of inspections and tests to verify the tank's integrity and safety. It is the responsibility of the tank owner to ensure that these re-certification requirements are met and that the tank is properly maintained and disposed of when necessary.

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There is also a month and year on the collar indicating the date the tank was made. For 20 lb propane tanks, you have 12 years from the manufacture date before the tank must be re-certified with a new date stamped on it. The re-certification only adds 5 years before having to re-certify again.read more >>