Gaslow Technical Section

How does the replacement cylinder scheme work?

IMPORTANT INFORMATION – Gaslow are witnessing an increasing amount of ‘Expired Cylinders’ being sold on Social Media/Market platforms. Please be wary of this activity if purchasing, please ask the seller for photos of the cylinder along with the serial number & expiry date printed on the cylinder. If you are unsure, DO NOT PURCHASE.  

Under the Code of practice provided by Liquid Gas UK, they state that ‘At periods not exceeding 10 years, refillable LPG cylinders, bottles & tanks must be recertified or replaced’.

You as the customer own your bottle/cylinder, therefore it is your responsibility to follow the guidance.  

Gaslow can assist with a cylinder replacement scheme, all that is required is for you to return your cylinder to us at Gaslow International. In return we will offer you a brand new cylinder at a discounted rate of 10% from the Gaslow RRP. In addition to this, we are pleased to offer a 10% discount on any other Gaslow products purchased on the same invoice as the cylinder replacement, from our Gaslow HQ.
We would advise that you take a photo of your cylinder/s and note the cylinder serial number and date stamp. Email the images and information into us at Gaslow with your contact details to confirm your cylinder/s meet the replacement criteria.

Please always contact us before travelling to ensure we have the correct cylinder in stock for you. If you require the new cylinder to be installed, please contact us to make an appointment.

As part of the replacement service, we will take your old cylinder from you free of charge. It’s important that we recycle old gas cylinders when they’re empty. Most are made from metal, usually steel or aluminium, which are both highly recyclable. When we recycle gas cylinders it avoids them ending up in landfill and harming the environment – especially if any remaining gas leaches into the ground, water, and air.

Please note that in order to use the Cylinder replacement scheme your cylinder must comply with certain conditions. See bottom of page for details.

Cylinder Replacement scheme terms and conditions

1. Cylinders must be of the Gaslow brand, no other make of cylinder will be accepted for the cylinder replacement scheme.
2. Any Gaslow cylinder that has been modified in any way will not be accepted for the Gaslow replacement scheme.
3. Gaslow cylinders returned must be empty of gas.
4. Gaslow International reserves the right to refuse any cylinder returned if it does not meet the exchange criteria for replacement.
5. No gas cylinders are to be sent by courier to Gaslow for the purpose of the cylinder replacement scheme, any cylinders received by courier will be refused.
6. Gaslow reserves the right to refuse any cylinder or cancel this scheme at any time without notice.
7. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO RECERTIFY YOUR EXISTING CYLINDER, PLEASE CONTACT US SO THAT WE CAN PROVIDE A SUITABLE TEST CENTRE FOR YOU TO TAKE THE CYLINDER TO. PLEASE NOTE THIS SERVICE OUTWEIGHS THE COST OF A BRAND NEW CYLINDER.

What parts do I require to make up a single Gaslow cylinder set up?

When looking to install a single Gaslow refillable LPG cylinder in your vehicle you will have a few simple steps to ensure the correct fitment.

1. Choose the cylinder size carefully to ensure that the cylinder fits neatly within your gas locker, if you are using a rental cylinder in the same locker ensure this will also fit in the locker with the Gaslow refillable LPG cylinder.
2. Choose the Gaslow LPG filler kit that you require, the filler kits can be mounted on the exterior of the vehicle or within the gas locker. If mounting the filler kit on the inside of the locker then you will require a filler mounting bracket which holds the filler point stable when filling with LPG. If you choose to mount the Gaslow filler kit on the vehicle body or side skirt then you will have everything you require within the kit. The next step with the Gaslow filler kit is to choose the colour filler pod that you require, currently the colours available are White, Grey or Black. Lastly is to choose the length of filler hose you require to connect the filler kit to the Gaslow cylinder to enable filling to happen.

If fitting the Gaslow filler kit to the gas locker door please unsure that a 90-degree filler elbow is fitted to the rear of the filler, fitting the elbow reduces any strain on the filler hose.

3. Next select a regulator hose for the installation, this hose goes from the Gaslow refillable LPG cylinder up to your gas regulator which is mounted on the gas locker wall. We can supply the regulator hoses in 0.45m and 0.75m length, to ensure a long life of your Gaslow system we supply stainless steel regulator hoses which as standard come with a 20-year warranty against manufactures defects. The regulator hoses have a W20 fitting on the regulator end and a 21.8 left hand thread on the Gaslow cylinder end so you will not be able to fit the hose the wrong way around.

Please ensure that the regulator hose will be long enough to reach the cylinder from the regulator, you should have some slack in the hose to allow for movement when the vehicle is motion.

4. If you wish to connect a Gaslow refillable LPG cylinder to the regulator mounted on the gas locker wall and have connected a rental cylinder so you do not have to keep disconnecting hoses when the rental cylinder is empty, then you will require either a Manual changeover head or an Automatic changeover head. Using this configuration will allow both cylinders to be connected to the regulator for ease of use. Also maintaining the regulator hose that you have already been using for your rental cylinder.
5. If you are travelling to Europe then you will require Gaslow Fill Adapters which simply screw into your Gaslow Filling point to enable you to fill with LPG in the country that you are visiting, once you have filled then you remove the adapter and replace the filler cap on the filler point.

Please use the check list below to help finalise your choice of parts required for a single Gaslow cylinder set up.

Check List of Parts Required for Single Gaslow System

The details above have been laid out as a guideline to the items you may require for installing a Gaslow single cylinder system in your vehicle produced after 2004.

What parts do I require to make up a Twin Gaslow cylinder set up?

When looking to install twin Gaslow refillable LPG cylinders in your vehicle you will have a few simple steps to ensure the correct fitment.

1. Choose the cylinder sizes carefully to ensure that the cylinders fit neatly within your gas locker,
2. Choose the Gaslow LPG filler kit that you require, the filler kits can be mounted on the exterior of the vehicle or within the gas locker. If mounting the filler kit on the inside of the locker then you will require a filler mounting bracket which holds the filler point stable when filling with LPG. If you choose to mount the Gaslow filler kit on the vehicle body or side skirt then you will have everything you require within the kit. The next step with the Gaslow filler kit is to choose the colour filler pod that you require, currently the colours available are White, Grey or Black. Lastly is to choose the length of filler hose you require to connect the filler kit to the Gaslow cylinder to enable filling to happen.

If fitting the Gaslow filler kit to the gas locker door please unsure that a 90-degree filler elbow is fitted to the rear of the filler, fitting the elbow reduces any strain on the filler hose.

3. Select a second cylinder connection hose which will connect the filling side of the two cylinders, so when you come to fill with LPG both cylinders are filled at the same time.
4. Next select two regulator hoses for the installation, these hoses will go from the Gaslow refillable LPG cylinders up to your gas regulator which is mounted on the gas locker wall. We can supply the regulator hoses in 0.45m and 0.75m length, to ensure a long life of your Gaslow system we supply stainless steel regulator hoses which as standard come with a 20-year warranty against manufactures defects. The regulator hoses have a W20 fitting on the regulator end and a 21.8 left hand thread on the Gaslow cylinder end so you will not be able to fit the hose the wrong way around.

Please ensure that the regulator hoses will be long enough to reach the cylinder from the regulator, you should have some slack in the hose to allow for movement when the vehicle is motion.

5. If your current vehicle is fitted with a single entry into the regulator you will require either a Manual changeover head or an Automatic changeover head. Using this configuration will allow both cylinders to be connected to the regulator for ease of use. Using a Manual Changeover, you control the gas into the vehicle by turning the cylinders on & off when required, however the Automatic Changeover will control the gas flow for you once both cylinders are turned on.
6. If you are travelling to Europe then you will require Gaslow Fill Adapters which simply screw into your Gaslow Filling point to enable you to fill with LPG in the country that you are visiting, once you have filled then you remove the adapter and replace the filler cap on the filler point.

Please use the check list below to help finalise your choice of parts required for a twin Gaslow cylinder set up.

Check List of Parts Required for Twin Gaslow System

The details above have been laid out as a guideline to the items you may require for installing a Gaslow twin cylinder system in your vehicle produced after 2004.

What is an Automatic Changeover Valve and how does it work?

An Automatic Changeover valve attaches to the inlet of your gas locker mounted 30mbar regulator, this turns a single hose regulator into a twin hose system, allowing two gas cylinders to be connected to the vehicle at any one time. The Automatic changeover is simple to install, works with Propane, Butane, LPG and will automatically change to your spare gas cylinder when your cylinder in use runs low.

Using the LP Gas System with an Automatic Changeover Valve

Select which cylinder you would like to use first by rotating the indicator head to the right or the left cylinder. The position of the arrow on the indicating head shows which cylinder will be used first or service cylinder.

Open both cylinder valves to allow gas to flow to the Automatic Changeover Head, ensure that both valves are open so the Automatic Changeover Head can give you continuous gas supply when the first cylinder is empty. At this point the windows on the Automatic Changeover Head will show green, this indicates gas pressure is present.

When the first cylinder is empty the Automatic Changeover will switch over to the reserve cylinder and will indicate this changeover by showing red in the windows of the changeover head.

How to install a Gaslow Automatic Changeover Head

1. Ensure your gas supply is turned off and removed from the vehicle, remove the existing regulator hose connected to your 30mbar wall mounted regulator.
2. Connect the Automatic Changeover Head to the inlet of your 30mbar regulator using the M20 x 1.5 female nut.
3. Install two high pressure regulator hoses to each inlet on the left and right side of the Automatic Changeover Head.
4. Re-install your gas cylinders and connect the regulator hoses to the cylinders from the Automatic Changeover Head.
5. Ensure all gas appliances are switched off, then turn the gas supply on at the gas cylinders. Check all joints with an approved gas leak detection spray. Checking for gas leaks should start at the cylinder end and work back to the changeover head.

Never test for gas leaks with a naked flame

Please click the link below to download a Full PDF version of What is an Automatic Changeover Valve and how does it work with comprehensive information included.

Gaslow what is an automatic changeover GasDoc003

If you are in any doubt about how to use your Automatic Changeover valve or have any questions please either use the Contact Us page or call us on 01509 377377

The Gaslow Range consists of three cylinders sizes which enable the range to be fitted to a wide range of applications. The sizes are:

2.7kg cylinder
The Gaslow 2.7kg Number 1 cylinder carries approx 4.56 litres at 80%. Height: 330mm to the top of the filler elbow x 203mm diameter with a weight of 5.18kg empty.

6kg cylinder
The Gaslow 6kg Number 1 cylinder carries approx 11.6 litres at 80%. Height: 456mm to the top of the filler elbow x 246mm diameter with a weight of 8.30kg empty.

11kg cylinder
The Gaslow 11kg Number 1 cylinder carries approx 21 litres at 80%. Height: 530mm to the top of the filler elbow x 302mm diameter with a weight of 12.4kg empty.

Features of a Gaslow Multi-Valve

The Gaslow multi-valve has all its features built into one valve instead of having a valve for each function like a four hole gas tank.
Accurate Contents Gauge: 
The contents gauge on the Gaslow Multi-Valve cylinder is a true contents gauge and not just an early warning gauge when your running low. The contents gauge is moved by a gear and pinion drive system ensuring accurate results, working much like the steering rack in a car works. 
Built in Filtration:
The Gaslow Multi-Valve incorporates its own built in filtration system ensuring that the vapour gas drawn from the cylinder is filtered by the in-built sintered bronze filter that self cleans when you fill with liquid gas.

Excess Flow restriction: 
The Gaslow Multi-Valve incorporates a safety feature called Excess Flow which in the event of a hose rupture restricts the flow of gas from the cylinder to the vehicle to ensure full cylinder pressure is not allowed to escape until the cylinder is turned off. Enabling you to use the Gaslow Multi-valve cylinder on the move.

Below is an animation of a Gaslow Multivalve cylinder showing how the LPG fill stop valve and accurate contents gauge work.

Why do I have to register and be logged in for the app to display data at all?
The data is not stored locally on your phone, but centrally on a cloud server. This allows you to change your device without losing your data. To be able to allocate your data, we need user accounts.

What is the GPS data needed for?
The “DIMES” product range also includes a solution for stationary containers (heating) – to be able to offer corresponding services (e.g. automatic filling), the data must be evaluated (customer, location, fill level). Furthermore we plan to include all available LPG filling stations in a later version of the app. This will enable you to find the nearest petrol station directly in the app.

Why does my tracking service have to be activated?
The providers Apple and Android do not allow Bluetooth connection if tracking services are disabled.

What data is collected and what happens to it?
The data will be sent exclusively to (ROTAREX S.A.) the manufactures of the Multivalve. You can find further information at Click Here

I am asked for a PIN when configuring the app. Where is it located?
The PIN is located on the sticker on the back of the module.

Can I measure the level with the Gaslow Wave without an internet connection?
The current fill level can also be read without an Internet connection. Only the charts/graphs are set up via the cloud server.

The app is showing me a wrong fill level
If the app is showing REFILL (empty) although you knowingly have a full gas bottle (or generally get a wrong display), or the opposite readings, this may be due to the special feature of the “first alignment” of the sensor. As this is a mechanical level sensor which transmits the fill level from the valve to the display unit via a magnetic connection, under special circumstances it is possible that the two magnets “jam” together. Only when the float is moved the magnets are correctly aligned (by gas extraction and/or by vibrations during travel). Alternatively, the magnet in the sensor can be influenced with an external magnet so that it is manually released. For this reason the app should be set up and tested during installation before the sensor is screwed together (in this case the sensor can be adjusted again manually using an external magnet. IF YOU HAVE INSTALLED THE WAVE AND THE READING IS SHOWING INCORRECT, BY REMOVING THE RECEIVER UNIT FROM THE BOTTLE AND MANUALLY SLOWLY SPINNING IT AROUND IN YOUR HAND, YOU CAN CORRECTLY CALIBRATE THE GAUGE TO SHOW YOU THE CORRECT READING WHILST REFRESHING THE APP. ONCE THIS IS COMPLETE, YOU CAN REINSTALL THE RECEIVER UNIT BACK INTO THE BOTTLE. 

Please note that the Trend Chart is not used to monitor your gas level. Use the reading from the TOP of the APP under the Motorhome.

The plug can no longer be removed from the sensor
The plug connection is designed according to protection class IP54, which requires a good and secure connection. To release the connection, it is best to use a small (slotted) screwdriver, with which you press in the latch directly above the plug connection to be able to pull the plug upwards.

Can several devices be connected simultaneously?
The DIMES transmitter unit can only establish one connection at a time, but they can connect several devices (just not in parallel). This situation is due to the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) standard.

How often is the data updated?
The default frequency is 12 hours, under ANDROID (Apple unfortunately does not support this functionality) you can set the cycle yourself (Menu – Global Settings – Advanced Settings). Please enter the value in minutes (e.g. 120 for an automatic update every 2 hours). Please also consider that a shorter transmission frequency also means higher energy consumption (battery life).

The Rotarex SRG App will not let me register
Once you have downloaded the Rotarex SRG App you will have to register to use the device. When you click register and try to enter your email address it will not allow you to type. This is caused by the phone being on the magnified screen setting, change the screen settings back to normal view and the app will accept you to register.

Contents of Gaslow Wave Kit
Hall sensor 0.5 – 4.5 V (RRD Remote Readout Dial)
WAVE transmitter box with 1 m cable length (without batteries)
Holder for WAVE Box with velcro fastener
Allen Key with 2 screws for replacement

PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU ARE TRAVELLING THROUGHOUT THE UK & EUROPE WITH A DIRECT FILL CYLINDER, YOU MAY BE REFUSED ON GETTING REFILLED. WE ALWAYS RECOMMEND ON INSTALLING AN EXTERNAL FILL POINT TO ELIMINATE ANY REFUSALS.

WITH A DIRECT FILL CYLINDER, IT IS AT THE DISCRETION OF THE LPG FORECOURT, THAT ALLOWS THE FILLING OF ANY REFILLABLE CYLINDER THAT IS PHYSICALLY PLACED ON THE FORECOURT TO BE FILLED, AS THEY HAVE ADDITIONAL REGULATORY DUTIES TO OBIDE TO.

DUE TO THE ILLEGAL FILLING OF EXCHANGE (CALOR & FLOGAS ETC) CYLINDERS ON LPG FORECOURTS – PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LPG STATION, TO EXPLAIN YOU HAVE A GENUINE REFILLABLE GASLOW CYLINDER, PRIOR TO VISITING FOR SITE APPROVAL. 

Gaslow Direct Fill LPG Cylinders offer all the advantages of a standard Gaslow refillable gas cylinder but with the added advantage of taking just the bottle to the pump to fill, particularly useful to caravan owners.
Gaslow Direct fill gas cylinders are available in either 2.7Kg, 6kg or 11kg sizes.

You will receive the following items as part of a Direct Fill Cylinder kit:

01-4400     Direct Fill Adapter for filling.
01-4111     Blanking cap for use on the filler elbow when the cylinder has been  filled.

How to use a Reserve Cylinder Connection Hose 01-4500-SS

The Gaslow Reserve Cylinder Connection hose (01-4500-SS) is designed to allow an external LPG cylinder to be stood next to your vehicle and connected to the Gaslow LPG filler point, this will allow vapor gas to equalize with your Gaslow cylinders.

To use you simply turn on the remote cylinder when connected to the filler point and vapor gas will transfer to your Gaslow cylinders. Simply turn on the Gaslow cylinder as you would to supply the van with gas and use the vehicle as you normally would.

Instructions for use:

1. Insert the appropriate adapter into the female end of the reserve connection hose to suit the cylinder you are connecting to.
2. Screw the male end of the reserve cylinder connection hose into the LPG filler point ensuring that the O ring has seated in the filler body.
3. Connect the cylinder end of the reserve cylinder connection hose to the reserve cylinder either directly with the 21.8LH thread or the appropriate adapter.
4. Turn the external gas cylinder on and using a suitable leak detector fluid check for any leaks.
5. Open your gas locker and turn on a Gaslow cylinder to allow the gas vapor from the external cylinder to flow to your appliances.
6. Store the external cylinder as close to your van as possible and secure to ensure the cylinder cannot topple over.

The Reserve Cylinder Connection Hose must not be used to transfer liquid gas between cylinders, not only is this a dangerous operation you will also transfer debris into the Gaslow cylinder valves from the remote cylinder which can cause the valves to operate incorrectly.

Ensure the Gaslow cylinder in the vehicle gas locker is below 50% contents.

Click the link below to open a PDFon how to upgrade your on/off valve on a Gaslow Multivalve cylinder.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW PDF

Gaslow Refillable LPG MultiValve Cylinder Contents Gauge

The gas contents gauge on a Gaslow Multivalve cylinder is the most accurate contents gauge you will see on any LPG gas cylinder on the market. The Gaslow Multivalve displays on a clear covered contents gauge on top of the multivalve that has a rotation of 362 degrees to give you a wide ranging reading of the contents. The contents gauge is also viewable from the top and sides, making it easy to view even in the tightest of spaces.
The contents gauge is driven by a gear and pinion system towards the float in the cylinder, much like the steering rack in your car which works on exactly the same principle. 

Gaslow Multivalve Contents Gauge

Above shows an image of the drive system used within the cylinder to indicate on the contents gauge where the level of liquid gas is. This is displayed directly on the contents gauge situated on the top of the cylinder valve.

 

An animation showing how the contents gauge works

Click the image of the cylinder above to watch a short animation on the Gaslow Refillable LPG cylinder which will illustrate how the contents gauge operates with the level of the liquid gas. 

What is the liquid gas level in my Gaslow cylinder?

Below are illustrations showing what the content is in the three sizes of Gaslow Multivalve cylinder in litres. The reading is given by looking at the black line on the clear contents gauge cover.

Contents Gauge Gaslow 2.7kg Refillable LPG Cylinder

The numbers around the gauge are an illustration of the litres remaining in the 2.7kg cylinder at any given point.
The contents gauge is read at the black line on the clear gauge cover.

Contents Gauge Gaslow 6kg Refillable LPG Cylinder

The numbers around the gauge are an illustration of the litres remaining in the 6kg cylinder at any given point. 
The contents gauge is read at the black line on the clear gauge cover.

Contents Gauge Gaslow 11kg Refillable LPG Cylinder

The numbers around the gauge are an illustration of the litres remaining in the 11kg cylinder at any given point.
The contents gauge is read at the black line on the clear gauge cover.

Gaslow Gas Level Contents gauge location

The above image shows the location of the gas level contents gauge on the Multivalve. On the image of the gauge you will also see the black line, this is where you take the contents reading from.
The contents gauge will revolve within the clear plastic cover to the level of the liquid gas.

Advantages of using a Gaslow Multivalve Cylinder

The advantage of using the Gaslow Multivalve cylinder is you can upgrade the accurate on cylinder contents gauge to the Gaslow Wave Bluetooth contents gauge that works on Android or Apple devices.
This upgrade gives you greater functionality, ease of use without going near the gas locker, and also gives you history and predicted usage over time. One of the key features is that the Gaslow Wave will give you early warning messages to your phone or tablet when you reach the user set levels in the cylinder, enabling you to organise a fill on your next journey.

Gaslow Wave Bluetooth Gas Level Contents Gauge

Click the above image to take you to the Gaslow Wave product page

The contents gauge shown in this article is only available on the Multivalve cylinder as shown. This Multivalve cannot be retrofitted to any other style of Gaslow cylinder.

LPG is a fossil fuel closely linked to oil. About two thirds of the LPG is extracted directly from the Earth in the same way as ordinary natural gas.

LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) contained in cylinders are supplied either as Butane or Propane. – Commercial Butane, which contains approximately 80-90% of Butane whilst commercial Propane contains approximately 90-95% Propane.

Large quantities of flammable vapour can be produced from relatively small amounts of liquid LPG stored in cylinders and gas tanks. This makes LPG an ideal portable fuel, cylinders must always remain upright to ensure only vapour exits the cylinder valve before it enters the regulators.

At atmospheric pressure BUTANE boils at 0-2°C and PROPANE boils at -45°C

Contained in cylinders or bulk tank, LPG remains a liquid under pressure and this pressure depends on the type of LPG and the ambient or cylinder temperature surrounding the cylinder.

LPG exists as a gas at normal atmospheric pressure & temperatures, but may be liquefied by the application of moderate pressure. If the pressure is released the liquid will revert back to vapour.
LPG as a liquid is colourless and as a vapour and cannot be seen.

Smell
Pure LPG has no distinctive smell so for safety reasons a stenching agent is added during production to give a pungent, unpleasant smell and so aid detection.

Flammability
When LPG is mixed with air, a highly flammable mixture is produced. The flammability range is between 2% to 11% by volume of gas to air. Outside this range any mixture is either to weak or rich to potentially ignite.

Vapourisation
One litre of liquid LPG will produce approximately 250 litres of flammable gas vapour. “Always treat LPG with respect.

Vapour Density
LPG vapour is heavier than air. Any escapes will find its way to the lowest level where it can remain and form a flammable mixture. Therefore LPG vessels must be sited away from drains and appliances must not be sited in basements or cellars. Cylinders in boats and ships must be stored in purpose built sealed gas lockers.

Liquid Density
LPG is lighter than water and therefore floats on top of it in a similar way to oil and petrol. Care must be taken with LPG dropping into drains or basements.

Vapour Pressure
The pressure LPG exerts on a vessel varies with ambient temperature. The higher the temperature of the liquid the higher the vapour pressure, conversely the lower the temperature the lower the pressure. Commercial Propane has a vapour pressure of approximately 6.42Bar (93psi) at 15 Degrees C. Commercial Butane has a vapour pressure of approximately 0.79Bar (11.5psi) at 15 Degrees C. Because of these characteristics Butane can be used indoors and Propane must only be used outdoors.

In a cylinder LPG is liquid at the bottom and vapour under pressure at the top. When there is an off-take of gas, the gas volume is regenerated by boiling off the liquid part. This vaporisation cools down the liquid. The heat required to continue the LPG to boil  is the surrounding air or ambient temperature in contact with the cylinder.

Propane delivers  high  pressure at colder temperaturers and is vaporised faster so is used and stored outside. Butane is used mainly for indoor or summer use.

During off-take, the temperature decreases, then the pressure decreases. When only a small amount of liquid remains in the cylinder, the pressure is lower than when the cylinder was full. Likewise the larger the cylinder the greater the surface area and so more vapour can be produced. This is called the vapourisation rate.

Expansion
When LPG heats up it expands very rapidly. In order to allow for expansion LPG cylinders and tanks are only filled by volume to a maximum of 80% of the total volume of the retaining vessel.

Boiling Point
The boiling point is the temperature below which LPG will not vaporise to form a gas vapour.
The boiling point of Commercial Propane is approximately – 42^oC.
The boiling point of Commercial Butane is approximately – 2^oC.
Commercial Butane can be affected by cold weather resulting in poor pressure and should not be used outdoors in winter months. Commercial Propane is not adversely affected by cold weather in the UK and is an ideal fuel source for heating, cooking and industrial applications. 

Chemical Reaction
LPG is aggressive to certain non-metalic materials like natural rubber and many plastics; therefore equipment and hoses must be suitable for LPG and hose replacement dates must be adhered to.

Calorific Value
The Calorific Value of a fuel is described as “The amount of heat released when a known quantity of fuel is burned”.
Commercial Propane = 95 MJ / m3
Commercial Butane = 121 MJ / m3
It is important that any gas appliances fuelled by LPG are designed and manufactured for that purpose.

Fuel / Air Mix
Commercial Propane = 23:1
Commercial Butane = 30:1
Therefore, it is important that appliances fuelled LPG are provided with adequate ventilation and serviced regularly to ensure that they burn efficiently.

Toxicity
LPG is non-toxic but at very high concentrations in air, LPG vapour acts as an anaesthetic and subsequently an asphyxiate by diluting or decreasing the available oxygen.

Safety

Care must be taken when using LPG! If LPG comes into contact with skin it will cause severe burns. Protective gloves should be worn at all times when dealing with LPG.

Why Choose Gaslow Refillable cylinders

Rather than exchanging your propane or butane gas cylinder when you need a replacement you can convert to using a refillable LPG cylinder meaning you do not have to carry the cylinder, also paying over the odds for a refill. The savings both for commercial and private use when refilling or topping up can be enormous. The more gas you use the more you save!

Just like your regular propane or butane gas cylinders, though not only refillable, but complete with contents gauge, 80% overfill cut-off protection, over-pressure release valve and filtration. 

Refilling or topping up a Refillable LPG cylinder

Topping up or completely refilling the Gaslow LPG cylinders is just as simple as filling your car with fuel, and because our bottles have a unique 80% shut-off valve, you know they are full when the LPG pump stops. All Gaslow cylinders have a content gauge so you know when you need more gas.

With a considerable number of LPG retail filling stations placed all over the UK (about 650) and an even higher amount than this in most European countries, means that, no matter where you are or where you are going, filling or topping-up your bottle need never be a problem.

The low cost of LPG

Typically a 6 kg exchange bottle in the UK costs in excess of £25.00, and holds approximately 11 Litres of gas, thus a fill up from empty at a pump, price of £0.99 pence per litre, means that you can fill up for approx. 1/2 of the normal cost of an exchange cylinder. Pump prices around the country vary depending on the region, and don’t forget also that these pump prices include road duty and extra VAT, so if you have your own supply of LPG it can be as little as 40ppl. With a 13kg exchange bottle costing around £50, in comparison our 11kg cylinder will cost around £19.99 to refill. Our smaller 2.7kg cylinder costs as little as £5.00 to refill, with the alternative exchange cost being around £25.00

Most gas bottles are exchanged well before they are empty either because you don’t know how much gas is left or you are not sure there is enough for your next outing, wasting money and effort.

Caravans & Motorhomes

Whether you’re going to Europe, or heading off into the deepest corners of the United Kingdom, you will find a supplier of LPG almost anywhere you go. Within the gas locker of your caravan or motorhome you can have a single or twin cylinder Gaslow refillable LPG system. The single or twin cylinder LPG cylinders would be linked to your vehicle`s regulator, supplying gas to your appliances. The filling side of the cylinders is very straight forward, using an LPG filling point located either on the vehicle body or within the gas locker. Then when travelling into Europe you simply screw into an adaptor into your existing fill point.

Motorhomes

Many motorhome-owners have switched from using rental gas cylinders to user-refillable ones. The main reason is the cost of the gas/LPG also the initial hire agreement cost of the cylinder, so if you have to go out and buy a 6kg rental cylinder for the first time you could be looking at a cost of £80.00 for the rental and £25.00-£30.00 for the gas within the cylinder, Total approx. Yes you do have an initial set up cost when purchasing the Gaslow refillable LPG system, but at £11.00 for a complete refill on a Gaslow 6kg cylinder you save every time you visit a filling station. You have the added convenience that you do not have to carry cylinders about to find an exchange, just simply drive into your nearest LPG filling station and fill your motorhome with gas.

Travelling abroad using the Gaslow LPG system is just the same as using in the UK other than you may have to use a filler adapter to fill. There is currently three adapters that convert the filling pump to connect onto your vehicle bayonet fitting. Once you have attached the correct adapter for the country you are in to your bayonet fill valve, you simply connect the filling head of the pump onto your van and fill as you would in the UK.

Gaslow Refillable cylinder systems are the answer to your motorhome gas needs, through simplicity and ease of use.

The majority of motorhome dealers here in the UK supply Gaslow systems either at point of sale of the vehicle or added as an accessory through their aftersales department.

Caravans

The Gaslow LPG refillable cylinder systems are becoming more and more popular with Caravan owners, mainly due to the convenience of not having to exchange rental cylinders and the cost saving when refilling.

Van Conversion Companies 

Van converters that transform a base van into a camper conversion for example a VW T6, VW T5, & Vauxhall Vivaro to name but a few, many use the Gaslow range within the conversions. The main reason for using the Gaslow systems in these vehicles is the cost and convenience to the end user. Most van conversions use the Camping Gaz 907 cylinder, this cylinder will cost some where in the region of £50.00 for a refill of the exchanged cylinder. With the Gaslow LPG gas cylinder system you would fill our Gaslow 2.7kg refillable cylinder for as little as £5.00 from empty. With the Gaslow 2.7kg refillable cylinder the system would pay for itself after only five complete fills.                            Contact Your nearest Van converter and ask for details of the Gaslow range. 

Farriers

The Gaslow refillable LPG range is being used amongst a growing number of Farriers for their gas forges in their vehicles. Not only do we supply the Gaslow Refillable cylinders, we can now also supply a dedicated gas locker for the farriers that will hold two of the Gaslow 11 kg refillable cylinders for safety whilst using the forge and also when in transit. The Gaslow refillable LPG cylinders are compatible with any Farrier gas forge that currently uses a propane gas cylinder. Farriers that already use the Gaslow refillable cylinders use Swan Farrier forges, Pro forge gas forge, Majestic farrier forge, Forge Master Gas Forge and many other portable gas farrier forges. Not forgetting that Gaslow now supply a forge to regulator hose in Stainless Steel giving extra protection from the high temperatures around the forge.

Mobile Catering

Businesses that uses mobile catering units, mobile coffee vans, mobile chip shops or any commercial catering unit have already started using the Gaslow refillable cylinders to supply their gas needs. Due to these vehicles being mobile they can easily ensure that the cylinders are full before an event, then once the event is over the Gaslow cylinders can be topped up once again for the next event, without having to move large gas cylinders to exchange for full ones. The Gaslow cylinders are not just for supplying motorhomes with gas but any mobile vehicle that requires a gas. 

Road Repairs

Many Asphalt repair companies around the country have Gaslow refillable LPG gas cylinders fitted. These vehicles are mainly used over night when obtaining a replacement gas cylinder would be out of the question. So the solution is to have a bank of 4,6 or 8 Gaslow Refillable 11kg cylinders linked up so when filling the complete system fills at the same time, ensuring that the vehicle is ready to use at a moments notice with a good reserve of LPG. The cost saving that these companies have noticed in a very short time and the ease of use has been satisfying to the customer. The Gaslow refillable LPG gas cylinders are used to supply gas to the burners of the Hotboxes that keep the asphalt soft ready for use. Smaller set ups are used with the Gaslow refillable cylinders for local pot hole asphalt repairs, which might only take two Gaslow cylinders, all the same these cylinders can be refilled or topped up just that same as the larger asphalt repair units.

Farmers

So what would a farmer need with a refillable LPG gas cylinder? Farmers use gas for all manor of uses from Bird scarers, small grain dryers and portable heating. The advantage of using Gaslow refillable LPG gas cylinders is the cost saving and convenience against the cost of rental gas cylinders. 

A Direct Fill Cylinder is regarded as a cylinder that has the Bayonet fill adapter fitted to the cylinder. Not a cylinder that is fitted within a vehicle and has a remote filling point fitted to the body of a vehicle..

To find a location where you can fill a Direct Fill Cylinder click on the map below:

Guidelines for the safe refilling of LPG

All Gaslow Refillable cylinders are designed to be refilled from any LPG or Autogas service station. The Gaslow cylinders have all the relevant safety features and 80% fill restrictions to allow safe filling so the cylinder will automatically shut off filling when the 80% level is achieved.

Most Gaslow installations will have a remote filling kit mounted on the body of the vehicle or in the gas locker, these filling kits have a standard LPG UK Bayonet fitting which has a non-return valve fitted and is identified by two lugs visible on the side of the brass filler point body. If you are abroad and need to fill up with LPG you can do this simply by attaching the appropriate continental fill adapter into the Bayonet filler to adapt for the country you are in, it’s as simple as that!

Continental fill adapters are available from Gaslow, or any Gaslow stockest.

When filling a gas system be it Gaslow Cylinders or even an Autogas converted car with LPG please be mindful that once they are full of gas to the 80% gas level, the built in automatic shut off valve within the cylinder or tank will stop the flow from the pump.  Once you reach the 80% fill level, release the FILL button on the LPG / Autogas pump and then remove the fill nozzle as per the filling instructions. You have now successfully filled your Gaslow cylinders. At no stage retry filling a Gaslow system that is already full. Do not continue to hold the LPG / Autogas pump FILL switch on when the filling has initially stopped or the flow of LPG has gone to a very slow pace.  If you continue to hold your hand on the FILL button you may on some occasions overcome the 80% shut off valve and force more liquid gas into your Gaslow Cylinder/s you will know you are doing this as the filling will be at a much slower pace than normal filling of LPG.

Please be aware that Filling your LPG cylinders is not like filling your car with petrol or diesel! With filling a petrol or diesel vehicle the pump will automatically stop when the fuel level reaches the pump nozzle, it is then up to you if you want to carry on filling until you see fuel at the filler neck, doing this will not harm your vehicle and just means you get that little extra distance on your journey before filling again with petrol or diesel. This process is not the same for LPG refillable cylinders as LPG is stored under pressure and requires the remaining room in the cylinder for expansion. So please do not be tempted to try and squeeze that extra bit of gas in for your holidays!!

If you do try to force extra LPG into a refillable system when it is full, you could eventually damage the 80% fill stop system, you will also risk venting LPG vapor from the cylinder relief valve when the cylinder warms up during the day. 

One last note:

Always ensure that you Gaslow Cylinders are turned off before filling commences. This applies to all LPG systems not just Gaslow cylinders.

Please click the link below to download a PDF version of How to fill your Gaslow Cylinders with comprehensive information and easy to follow steps included.

Filling Gaslow Cylinders with LPG GasDoc004

If you are in any doubt as to filling your Gaslow cylinders or have any questions please either use the Contact Us page or call us on
01509 377377

Always ensure that you Gaslow Cylinders are turned off before filling commences. This applies to all LPG systems not just Gaslow cylinders.

LPG Adapters in Europe

ACME CONNECTOR

Also known as: ACME thread, ACME adapter or ACME nozzle
This connector has a thread fitting onto which the petrol pump is screwed before the trigger is pulled to establish a seal before fuel transfer.
For use in the following countries:
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Germany, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America.

EURO CONNECTOR

Also known as: Euro Adapter, Euro nozzle
The Euroconnector has been introduced in Spain with great success and is currently being introduced in the U.S. replacing dish and ACME connections.
For use in the following countries:
Portugal & Spain

DISH CONNECTOR

Also known as: Italian adapter, DISH coupling, Italian dish, Dish adapter, French Adapter

For use in the following countries:

Albania, Algeria, Austria, Belarus, Bosnia, Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Greece, Hungary, India, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine.

Click here to download a PDF copy of which adapter is used in which country

The information contained in this document is intended to give guidance and believed to be accurate and represent good practice at the time of publication. No responsibility or liability is accepted by Gaslow International Limited for any loss or damage arising out of the information given. It is important that all users adhere to all legal requirements, regulations, CoP`s and standards, particularly, those relating to Gas safety.

LPG and travelling using the Euro Tunnel

Gas used for Domestic services

If travelling with a campervan, caravan or any other vehicle fitted with cooking facilities, any flammable gas container must be declared when asked and will be checked at the appropriate checkpoint by Eurotunnel Le Shuttle.

Flammable gas containers may be transported with the following restrictions.

• For portable containers (cylinders/bottles, etc): Maximum of 47kg per cylinder and no more than 50kg per Vehicle if more than 1 container;
  For fixed containers (tanks): Maximum of 47kg per container and no more than 50kg per vehicle if more than one container.
• Fixed containers must be no more than 80% full. The capacity of the container will be checked by Eurotunnel staff.

In all cases, transport of gas containers to power domestic services (e.g. cooking, lighting & heating, etc.) are restricted as outlined.

Portable Gas Containers (cylinders or bottles)

Cylinders or bottles containing flammable gas that can be moved from the vehicle for replacement or re-filling. The quantity of gas is limited to 47kg (or approximately 93 litres) maximum for a single container and to 50kg (or approximately 99 litres) maximum in the case of several cylinders.

Fixed Gas Containers (tanks, etc.)

Fixed containers that are permanently installed or fixed in a vehicle and are refillable from outside the vehicle.

The quantity of gas is limited to 47kg (or approximately 93 litres) maximum for a single container and to 50kg (or approximately 99 litres) maximum in the case of several containers. Each container must be no more than 80% full.

The quantity will be checked via the gauge or remote indicator but if neither are present, the vehicle will be refused.

Combination of portable and fixed containers

If the vehicle is fitted with a combination of portable and fixed containers, the quantity of gas is limited to 50kg (or approximately 99 litres) maximum and the rules previously described apply.

Note:

All containers and/or gauges/indicators must be of easy access by Euro Tunnel staff for any check. Gas containers must be switched off whilst travelling and connection systems must be in good condition. Opening the container tap or using domestic services as described above is strictly forbidden until the vehicle has unloaded at the arrival terminal.

In case of non-compliance with the above conditions, Eurotunnel Le Shuttle reserves the right to cancel your journey.

The information contained in this document is intended to give guidance and believed to be accurate and represent good practice at the time of publication. The above information has been taken from the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle website. Information given is correct at time of printing. Please refer to Eurotunnel Le shuttles website to unsure up to date information. No responsibility or liability is accepted by Gaslow International Limited for any loss or damage arising out of the information given. It is important that all users adhere to all legal requirements, regulations, CoP`s and standards, particularly, those relating to Gas safety.

PROPANE/BUTANE LPG MIXES IN EUROPE

The table below contains a list of countries and most common propane/butane mixtures. This data should be seen only as to give you a perspective. Mixtures can vary from station to station and from company to company.

The LPG grades are defined by the temperature at which they reach the minimum pressure of 150 kPa.

Vapour Pressure of Gas in a Container

The table below shows the pressure of the gas in an LPG cylinder in PSI & BAR at varying temperatures assuming the contents of the cylinder follow the 80% filling rule.

An example is 80% Propane 20% Butane mix at 15 Degrees Centigrade would have a container pressure of 80 PSI or 5.5 BAR

Pressure release valves are fitted to gas containers to allow a release of LPG pressure in the event of a sudden rise in temperature for example a cylinder in a fire.

Leak Detection Fluid v Washing Up Liquid

Once you have installed a Gaslow system or made any adjustments within your gas locker you should always check for leaks. Even if you have only changed a rental cylinder you should still check the regulator connection to the cylinder is gas tight.
You can check for gas tightness in many ways but as the end user you will normally rely on leak detection fluid or a gas sniffer.
Leak detection fluid, or LDF for short, is available from Gaslow and many other DIY outlets, it will be marked as Leak Detection Fluid or LDF in either a spray or a bottle with a brush to apply to the joints.
Gas sniffers can also be purchased online or from local DIY outlets and are a good product if you are unsure of where your leak is coming from in remote areas of an installation. Gas sniffers must be calibrated in fresh air before introducing into an environment where a gas leak may be. It is recommended that you still check with a leak detection fluid once the leak is rectified.

If you are in any doubt about a gas leak, or are unsure as to where the leak is coming from, isolate your gas supply and contact a trained gas installer who will be able to test your system with a manometer and carry out further tests to locate your leak.
It is important that you only use the correct leak detection methods listed above as using any other method may cause damage to your installation.

WARNING
Do not use washing up liquid of any make or brand for detection of a gas leak
Most washing up liquids on the market today contain Sodium Hydroxide and Sodium Sulphate which are very corrosive hence your dishes always come up clean. The chemical composition of washing up liquid will allow you to locate a gas leak by producing bubbles, however this also has a negative effect on the brass and copper in your installation! When the washing up liquid you have used to detect a leak dries, it forms a corrosive compound on the surface and will continue to corrode this surface until such time it is removed or neutralized.  Most gas cylinders will have brass valves fitted. If your valves have turned green or forming a green crust then washing up liquid has been used and must be removed. On/off valves on cylinders can also be affected and this is usually noted by the valve becoming stiff to turn on and off.

 Remove any green corrosion by flushing the area with water and using a stiff brush to agitate the area until contamination is removed. If the corrosion has entered manual on/off valves this will be harder to remove and may require new valving.
If you have gas level gauges fitted to your cylinders these must be removed before cleaning commences.

Both of the above images show corrosion caused by the use of a washing up liquid solution to check for leaks and then not washed off or neutralized.

The corrosion caused is not covered by the Gaslow cylinder warranty.,

The Gaslow remote solenoid is used on the Gaslow Multivalve range of refillable cylinders, enabling the user to control the supply of gas to the vehicle by the vehicle ignition or remote switch. 

With the Solenoid you will have a green driver unit that is used to control the solenoid so you use very little power after the initial opening of the valve. 

Click links below for instructions and trouble shooting:

Remote Solenoid Wiring Diagram with Driver Unit

How to install a Gaslow R67 Solenoid

How to test a Gaslow Solenoid driver unit

The date stamps on Gaslow Refillable Cylinders can be in various places depending on the age of the cylinder. Please see below for examples:

Cylinders dated from 2003-2008 will have the a large carry handle on the cylinder just like a rental cylinder has. The information you require will be stamped on that collar in the form of YYYY/MM when the cylinder was produced. After the production date you will have YYYY for the date of the cylinder needs to be re-tested.

Cylinders dated from 2008-2012 will have the a small loop style carry handle. The information you require will be stamped on that base ring in the form of YYYY/MM when the cylinder was produced. After the production date you will have YYYY for the date of the cylinder needs to be re-tested.

Cylinders dated from 2012-Current will have the a small loop style carry handle & feature the Gaslow Multivalve. The information you require will be stamped on that base ring in the form of MM/YYYY when the cylinder was produced. 
If your cylinder does not have a date stamped on the base ring then contact us with the cylinder serial number for the production date.

Truma Crash Sensing regulator & no gas supply to your appliances

If you have a recreational vehicle produced from 2004 onwards you will probably have a Truma regulator fitted. The later style Truma regulators from approx. 2012 will have the crash sensing, Mono-control or Duo-control fitted, this is noticeable by the green push button which is part of the lower regulator assembly. The crash sensing regulator works by detecting G shock whilst driving for example if the vehicle is in an accident. The CS regulator also detects potholes, speed reduction humps, raised cats eyes and any rough roads as a few examples.

A common problem encountered with this style of regulator is that gas supply is interrupted by the van being in transit, then when reaching your destination even after pushing the green reset button gas still does not enter the supply line into the vehicle. This problem can be rectified very quickly and easily by using a pen or pencil and pressing the green button firmly in as far as possible, this will reset the regulator and gas will flow.

If you have an issue with gas supply after you have followed the above procedure, then check you have gas in your cylinder/s. If you do have gas in your cylinder and have a Truma regulator fitted you may have regulator failure causing the supply of gas to be restricted.

What is the Red cap for on my Gaslow cylinder valve?

The red cap on the Gaslow cylinder valves are dust covers for the PRV or pressure relief valve. This pressure relief valve is designed to vent gas from the cylinder in the event of a fire or overfill. The valve behind the red cap is spring loaded and calibrated to release gas at a set pressure which on propane cylinders is usually set at 26.5Bar release pressure.

This cap must not be tampered with or removed.

In the event of gas coming from the PRV valve the cylinder must be left in a well-ventilated area away from any sources of ignition until venting has ceased, contact Gaslow International for advice.

If gas is coming from the PRV on the valve, then do not try to obstruct the valve by jamming it shut! Never stem the flow of gas or block the valve completely.

The image on the left shows a customer`s cylinder where the PRV valve has been sealed shut to stop a small leak he experienced after filling!

The PRV must never be tampered with or blanked off as the PRV is a safety feature to reduce pressure in the cylinder.

Depending on what Gaslow products you have fitted on your vehicle  depends on the maintenance required. If you have a refillable system fitted in your gas locker we suggest that the cylinders and fittings are kept as clean as possible, and any road salt or debris cannot access the locker to cause corrosion. The stainless steel filler hoses require no maintenance other than a visual check for damage. Regulator hoses require a visual check for damage and the rubber washers at the cylinder and regulator end of the hose to be changed periodically.

After any maintenance the system should be pressure checked for tightness.

Consumables are available from the Gaslow Direct website 
Click here to enter the Consumables section of the website.

Vessel, Cylinder or Tank is the term used to describe the body that holds the liquid and vapour gas.

Multi-Valve is the term used to describe the valve that incorporates all of the cylinder functionality in one valve.  

On/Off Valve is the term used to describe the isolation valve that allows or stops the flow of gas vapour.

Pressure Relief Valve or PRV as abbreviated is the term used for the part of the valve that normally has a red cap fitted and will operate to release gas when the cylinder pressure reaches a pre-set limit, normally 26 Bar.

Contents Gauge is the term used to an indicator that will give you a reading of the contents in the cylinder.

Vessel, Cylinder or Tank Outlet is the term used to describe the connection from the cylinder that you would connect a regulator or regulator hose to, which would then supply gas to the vehicle.

Fill Stop Valve is the term used to describe the valve that allows the cylinder vessel or tank to accept liquid gas, via a hose or direct fill attachment. This valve is operated by LPG filling chambers with liquid gas until a float valve shuts the valves and stops the supply from the pump. Can some times be called the 80% Fill Stop Valve as well.

When filling with LPG at a filling station (normally in France) using the Dish type fill adaptor, you may find that when the pump head is locked into the adapter, you dispense LPG and  it leaks from round the adapter and pump head connection.

This is caused not by a faulty Fill Adapter but a worn rubber gasket in the pump head itself (shown in the image below). This is quite a common fault especially in France. 

The image below shows a worn rubber gasket which does not seat to the raised area on the internal face of the Fill Adapter.

Our suggestion is to find an alternative garage to despense gas from, mainly for safety reasons. 

You are not able to fill a Gaslow system with CNG due to the very high storage pressures typically 206 – 248 Bar (3000-3600Psi) which is the average storage pressure of CNG. Compare that to a standard LPG cylinder, rental type or refillable and you will have an average cylinder pressure of approximately 7 Bar with a maximum pressure of 26 Bar.
No Adaptions must be used, or changes to the cylinder to accept CNG 

WHAT DOES THIS NOTIFICTION LABEL MEAN IN YOUR GAS LOCKER?

We have been asked many times what this gas locker notification label means, normally stuck on the inside of the locker door.

We get told this sticker means you can only carry 15kg of gas in your locker. Or you can only use one 15kg butane cylinder! Both of these are incorrect!!!

The correct meaning of the notification label is the manufacturer of the vehicle has reduced the payload weight of your vehicle to account for a 15kg gas cylinder, if you choose to put two cylinders in the locker you will only have to account for the difference between the twin cylinder weight and the 15kg allowance.