RITCHIE AGRICULTURAL
We prototype test our gas cylinder racks to ensure they can withstand real world handling without compromising safety. In the event of an accidental drop during transport or loading, the structure must protect the cylinders from impact damage, prevent leaks, and maintain stability. Prototype testing helps us verify the rack’s strength, durability, and compliance with safety standards. It is to ensure users have the peace of mind that their gas storage solution is built to perform under pressure.
The Prototype Test process
The prototype testing of this 16 cylinder bundle involved a 12 and 30 degree tilt, vertical and rotational drop test. In addition to relevant Ritchie employees, the customer, DNV and Apragaz were present for the testing.
The 12 and 30 degree Tilt Tests – why two tests?
We do two different degree tilt tests because BS EN ISO 10961:2019 (for gas cylinder frames and cages) and DNV-ST-E271 (for offshore containers) have different safety requirements and usage environments. ISO 10961 typically requires a lower tilt angle to assess stability under normal industrial conditions. While DNV-ST-E271 demands a steeper tilt test to simulate rough offshore handling and ensure containers remain stable under extreme tilting and movement. Each standard reflects the specific risks of its operational setting.
12 degree for BS EN ISO10961:2019
The 12-degree tilt test in BS EN ISO 10961:2019 evaluates the stability of gas cylinder bundles. It is to check they remain upright under inclined conditions. The test involves placing the fully assembled and pressurised bundle on a flat surface. Then tilting it to an angle of 12 degrees from the vertical position. The bundle must not tip over or collapse under its own weight. This test verifies that the design, structural integrity, and securing mechanisms (such as frames or supports) are sufficient to prevent accidental toppling. Therefore ensuring safety during storage, handling, and transportation.
30 degree for DNV-ST-E271-2.7-1
The 30-degree tilt test for DNV-ST-E271 (formerly DNV 2.7-1) offshore cylinder bundles evaluates their stability and structural integrity under extreme conditions. The pack is placed on a firm, level surface and tilted to a 30-degree angle in both longitudinal and transverse directions while fully loaded. The test ensures that it remains stable, does not tip over, and that the cylinders inside remain secure. This verification is crucial for offshore transport. The cylinder pack must withstand rough sea conditions and uneven lifting scenarios without compromising safety.
The Vertical Drop Test
The BS EN ISO 10961:2009 vertical drop test is a safety assessment for gas cylinder bundles. This ensures they can withstand impact during handling and transport. In this prototype test, a fully pressurised bundle is lifted to 100mm at an angle of at least 5 degrees and dropped onto a hard surface (concrete). The test evaluates structural integrity, ensuring the cylinders, frame, and manifold connections remain intact without leaks or significant damage. This helps confirm compliance with the safety standards.
The Rotational Drop Test
The rotating drop test for gas cylinder packs assesses their ability to withstand impact during handling and transport. In this test, a fully loaded cylinder bundle is dropped from 1200mm onto a hard surface (concrete). It is rotated, simulating real-world conditions where the pack might tip or fall. The test evaluates structural integrity, ensuring the frame and cylinders remain secure without leaks or hazardous failures. It is a crucial safety measure for confirming compliance with regulations.
After rotational drop testing, inspectors carefully examine the container or frame. Looking for any signs of structural damage, or compromised welds that could affect safety or integrity. They check for cracks, misalignments, or loose components, and ensure all locking mechanisms and securing points remain functional. Tepol leak detection fluid is applied to all manifold, valve, and cylinder connections, ensuring thorough inspection for internal and external leaks. Visual inspections are conducted, looking for indicators such as bubbles, to ensure that any potential leaks are identified. If the gas cylinder bundle passes leak test, visual and dimensional inspections, the primary structure remains capable of subsequent movement and, the cylinders and manifold remain constraint inside the frame without critical damage, it is deemed compliant. Documentation completes the outcome and maintains traceability for certification or audit purposes. We are happy to report the 16 cylinder gas bundle was deemed compliant!
Read about our Testing & Certification
At Ritchie we pride ourselves in our quality design, manufacturing and high-end testing capability. Quality assurance is an integral part of the Ritchie ethos.
Products can be supplied to meet:
- DNV-ST-E271 – 2.7-1
- ISO 10855:2018
- BS EN ISO 10961:2019
- TPED
- TPER
- ADR
- IMDG
