Scuba tanks

Question
Dear Sir
I am a student currently studying in school. I have a question that I can't find an answer to. I have been searching the internet but none answers my question specifically. My question is" How can you fill and store scuba tanks safely?"

I would really appreciate it if you could answer this question and reply to me as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely
Ali. G

Answer
Ali,

The proper way to store a SCUBA cylinder is near empty (300-500 psi).  The cylinder should be stored standing upright and, to prevent accidental falling over, attached to something, e.g. wall, post, etc., using a bungie cord, rope, small chain, or something similar.

The proper way to fill a cylinder:

-Check the cylinder for current visual inspection sticker
-Visually check the outside of the cylinder for noticeable damage that might weaken the cylinder
-Check the cylinder for current hydrostatic test date stamp
-Check the valve to make sure it is clean and dry, inspect the o-ring condition
-Attach the fill whip valve to the cylinder valve
-Open the cylinder valve all the way
-Slowly, open the fill whip valve just enough to begin filling the cylinder
-Fill the cylinder SLOWLY to prevent the cylinder from heating up during the fill
-A proper fill, for a nearly empty cylinder, should take 10-20 minutes
-If needed, use a booster pump to bring the cylinder up to it's rated pressure
-Never fill a cylinder above the rated pressure stamped into the crown of the cylinder

Hope this helps,

Henry Babcock
AllExperts SCUBA Expert