What color must ASME containers be painted for safety compliance?

ASME containers must be painted in white, aluminum, or other heat-reflective colors to comply with safety standards. This is primarily to minimize heat absorption from the sun, which can increase the pressure inside the containers. High pressure within these storage tanks can lead to dangerous situations, such as overpressure or potential rupture. By using heat-reflective colors, the containers maintain a lower internal temperature, which is crucial for safe operation and storage of propane and other liquefied gases.

The rationale behind this requirement is rooted in safety measures aimed at preventing accidents. Dark colors like black, for example, tend to absorb heat, increasing internal temperatures, which could jeopardize the container’s integrity. Similarly, while bright colors like red might be attention-grabbing, they do not necessarily adhere to the safety standards regarding temperature control. Other colors, like any shade of green, do not have the specific heat-reflective qualities needed for the safe management of LP gas containers. Thus, choosing the appropriate paint color significantly contributes to the safe handling and storage of propane, aligning with industry safety standards.