How are container capacities for ASME tanks expressed?

Container capacities for ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) tanks are expressed in maximum water gallons. This standard is important because it provides a consistent measure that can be universally understood and is critical for safety and regulatory compliance when dealing with liquid propane or other substances stored in these tanks. The water gallon measurement is particularly relevant as it correlates with the volumetric capacity of the tank when it is filled with a liquid, ensuring that users know the maximum amount of liquid the tank can safely hold. This capacity is crucial for planning storage and transport, as well as ensuring that safety guidelines related to maximum fill levels are adhered to.

In contrast, other measures like pounds of propane, cubic feet, or liters do not provide the same universally accepted standard for tank capacity as those measurements may vary based on temperature, pressure, and the type of substance being contained.