Central supply systems for nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide using cylinders or portable containers shall be prevented from reaching temperatures lower than ___°F.

• A. 20
• B. 125
• C. 32
• D. -20

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a minimum temperature protects the physical integrity and reliable operation of cylinders and their regulators. Central supply systems for nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide are under pressure, and when ambient temperatures drop toward freezing, metal components like valves and connections can become brittle or seize, and regulators can frost up, restricting flow. Setting the lower limit at 20°F keeps these parts out of the danger zone, preserving safe operation and preventing leaks or blockages. Higher limits would unnecessarily constrain storage, while much lower limits would not offer adequate protection against cold-induced hardware issues.