How long after the manufacture date may a DOT (ICC) Steel or Aluminum cylinder be used before recertification is required?

A DOT (Department of Transportation) cylinder, whether made of steel or aluminum, is required to undergo periodic recertification to ensure its safety and compliance with transportation regulations. The recertification timeframe for these cylinders generally aligns with a 12-year interval from the date of manufacture or from the last requalification date.

This requirement is instituted because, over time, the integrity of the cylinder could be compromised due to factors such as pressure cycling, environmental exposure, and physical handling. By mandating recertification every 12 years, safety is prioritized, ensuring that cylinders remain safe for use under transportation and storage conditions.

While other timeframes like 5, 10, and 15 years may seem plausible, they do not reflect the regulatory standards established by the DOT for cylinder recertification. The 12-year period strikes a balance between ensuring safety and practicality for users and manufacturers, making it the correct timeframe for required recertification of DOT cylinders.