What is UL 331?

UL 331 is a standard technical specification for safety requirements and test methods of non-refillable metallic portable gas container valves. This standard was developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a global independent safety science company that specializes in testing, certification, and standards development. UL 331 specifically focuses on the safety of portable gas container valves, ensuring that they meet stringent requirements to prevent accidents and ensure user safety.

The Purpose and Scope of UL 331

The purpose of UL 331 is to establish minimum safety requirements and test methods for non-refillable metallic portable gas container valves. These valves are used in various applications, such as small camping gas cylinders, fuel cartridges, and disposable gas containers for lighters or torches. The standard covers different types of valves, including those with manually operated ON/OFF controls or pressure relief devices.

The scope of UL 331 includes evaluating the construction, performance, and reliability of these valves. It also considers factors such as pressure resistance, leakage prevention, flame resistance, corrosion resistance, and impact resistance. By complying with UL 331, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet industry safety standards and provide peace of mind to end users.

Key Requirements of UL 331

UL 331 specifies several key requirements that non-refillable metallic portable gas container valves must meet in order to be considered safe. Some of these requirements include:

Pressure Resistance: The valves must be capable of withstanding specified pressure levels without leaking or rupturing.

Leakage Prevention: The valves should be designed to prevent any gas leakage under normal operating conditions.

Flame Resistance: The valves must be able to withstand exposure to an open flame without ignition, explosion, or leakage of gas.

Corrosion Resistance: The valves should resist corrosion from environmental conditions, ensuring their long-term performance and durability.

Impact Resistance: The valves need to be able to withstand impact forces without any structural damage that could compromise their functionality.

Conclusion

UL 331 is an important standard for ensuring the safety of non-refillable metallic portable gas container valves. By complying with UL 331, manufacturers can demonstrate that their products meet rigorous safety requirements, giving consumers confidence in the reliability and performance of these valves. As consumers, it is crucial to check for UL 331 compliance when purchasing gas containers to ensure that they have undergone thorough testing and meet industry standards for safety.