Recently, the State Administration for Market Regulation (Standardization Administration of China) released two mandatory national standards—“Liquefied Petroleum Gas Cylinders” (GB 5842-2023) and “Valves for Liquefied Petroleum Gas Cylinders” (GB 7512-2023)—which will take effect on December 1, 2023.
To address prominent safety hazards in current gas operation, the new standard sets clearer requirements. First, the use of dual-phase gas-liquid cylinders is prohibited; only single-phase gas or liquid cylinders are permitted. Given the higher risks associated with liquid-phase cylinders, the standard specifies only one size: 50 kg. Second, cylinder stamp information has been improved. The stamp must include essential details such as manufacturer, allowable filling capacity, manufacturing date and month, and design service life, with a minimum engraving depth of 0.7 mm to ensure readability for users and compliance with regulatory requirements. Third, electronic identification marks have been introduced. These marks contain key cylinder information, including product details, certificates of conformity, quality certificates, and type test certificates. Consumers can verify the authenticity of a cylinder by scanning the electronic mark. Fourth, cylinder body colors have been standardized. To facilitate identification and management, gas-phase cylinders shall be silver-gray and liquid-phase cylinders white. Fifth, traceability requirements for quality have been enhanced. The standard requires manufacturers to establish a product traceability website to publicly disclose relevant information for each individual cylinder.
The implementation of these two standards will provide important technical support for ensuring the safe operation of urban gas systems and protecting people’s lives and property. The State Administration for Market Regulation will promote, implement, and enforce these standards, requiring the liquefied petroleum gas cylinder and valve industry to fully comply with standard requirements across all stages, including production, sales, refilling, and usage.
