A lead gasket used with a chlorine cylinder can be reused how many times?

• A. Once
• B. Twice
• C. Until it wears out
• D. Never

Answer: (D)

Lead gaskets used with chlorine cylinders are intended for a single use. The seal forms by the gasket deforming to fit the valve seat when the cylinder is closed. Once removed, the gasket’s surface can be deformed, cracked, or develop micro-tears, and it won’t seal reliably if put back in place. Chlorine gas is highly reactive and corrosive, so any small imperfection or residual material on the gasket can lead to a leak under pressure. Because a leak of chlorine poses serious health and safety risks, the gasket is replaced with a new one each time the cylinder is serviced. In short, you should never reuse it.