In my last safety message I informed you that I had found a scuba cylinder on my boat that was full of air, but the valve handle would not turn. I exerted as much force as I dared, but the valve would not open. What did I do?

I used an ultrasonic cleaner to clean the valve, hoping it would become operational. I suspended the cylinder upside down and immersed the valve in the ultrasonic cleaner. Unfortunately this effort to free the valve stem did not work. I had made no progress.

So, it was time for some professional help. I transported the cylinder to a hydrostatic testing facility near me, and let them solve the problem. This condition was apparently not uncommon. They knew exactly how to deal with it.

I thought I would have to purchase a new valve, but no, they rebuilt the valve that had malfunctioned. And, while the tank was at the shop, I had the 5-year hydrostatic test conducted as well. Now all is good!

Sometimes you simply need to pass a problem to a trained, skilled professional. This was definitely one of those times!

Stay Safe!

Dave Wills