Tankgas

Tankgas is a term used in the gas industry to describe gases that are stored and transported in bulk in tanks rather than in small consumer cylinders. It encompasses a wide range of gases, including nitrogen, oxygen, argon, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, helium, propane, acetylene, and specialty gases used for industry, science, and healthcare. Tankgas is typically delivered in bulk by road tanker, rail tank car, or ISO tank container and stored on-site in bulk tanks, dewars for cryogenic gases, or high-pressure vessels, depending on the gas and application.

Storage and handling practices vary with gas properties. Bulk tanks are engineered with material compatibility, pressure ratings, relief devices, and secure valves. On-site handling includes routine leak checks, proper ventilation, gas detectors, and procedures for ignition sources and confined spaces. Transportation and storage require segregation of incompatible gases, correct labeling and documentation, and adherence to national and international hazmat regulations.

Common uses span manufacturing and metal fabrication (welding and cutting gases), food and beverage preservation (carbon dioxide and nitrogen sweeps), medical care (oxygen and nitrous oxide), electronics and chemical processing, and research. The choice of tank type—high-pressure cylinders, dewars, or cryogenic tanks—depends on gas properties such as pressure and temperature requirements.

Regulation and safety considerations are central to tankgas operations. The industry follows standards set by international and national bodies, and transport rules (UN numbers, ADR, DOT). Suppliers provide safety data sheets and training, and operators maintain compliance through inspections and risk assessments. Major global producers run production facilities and distribution networks to supply bulk gases to industrial, medical, and research customers.