From the numerous installation inspections conducted we are fearful of dangerous situations in place at client premises. We have gas systems installed with unsafe manifolds in place. We believe all parties are to blame.
The manufacturer /distributor
Some manifolds supplied into the market have been found to be manufactured from inferior material, pressure tested to the incorrect pressure, not pressure tested at all, or incorrectly or poorly assembled.
The installer
Does not insist on a manifold pressure test certificate, manufacturers manifolds on site, does not support or provides insufficient support to the manifold. Does not tighten the hoses or fittings to the manifold or incorrectly assembles the manifold and fittings.
The consultant
Accepting these installations without checking for the correct certification and ensuring the correct installation of the manifold has been achieved.
Is the problem lack of knowledge, lack of understanding of the dangers or is it a couldn’t care less attitude?
We do not know.
The manifold is the first point of impact when the gas leaves the cylinder and these items can be subject to 25 bar and up to 300 bar pressure. When we consider a car tyre inflated to 2 bar can cause a car to leave the road when bursting, think of the problem of a steel pipe fracturing under 300 bar pressure!!
