SOP FOR FILLING CYLINDERS FROM A BOOSTER
1. FIRST SCENARIO: FILLING CYLINDERS AFTER EMPTYING THEM WITH A
VACUUM PUMP
OBJECTIVE: SAFELY FILL CYLINDERS THAT HAVE BEEN EVACUATED USING A VACUUM
PUMP.
STEPS:
1. Ensure Cylinders are Empty:
o Verify that all cylinders are fully emptied before starting the procedure.
2. Connect Cylinders:
o Securely connect the empty cylinders to the filling manifold.
3. Remove the Blue Pipe:
o Disconnect the blue pipe from its connection point on the system.
4. Open Valve V2:
o Slowly open valve V2 to prepare the system for vacuuming.
5. Open Valve VR:
o Open valve VR to allow flow through the ramp.
6. Open Valve VC:
o Open valve VC.
7. Connect Blue Pipe to Vacuum Pump and Start It:
o Attach the blue pipe again.
o Turn on the vacuum pump to begin evacuating the cylinders.
8. Monitor Pressure:
o Watch the pressure gauge.
o When the pressure reaches -500 millibars, proceed to the next step.
9. Close Valve V2 and Turn Off Vacuum Pump:
o Close valve V2 to isolate the vacuum.
o Turn off the vacuum pump.
10. Remove Blue Pipe:
o Disconnect the blue pipe from the vacuum pump.
11. Open Valve V1:
o Open valve V1 to start the filling process.
o Automatic Mode: The booster will start automatically.
o Manual Mode: Press the "1" button to start the booster.
12. Monitor Filling Process:
o Allow the booster to fill the cylinders.
o The booster will stop automatically when filling is complete.
13. Close Valve V1:
o Close valve V1 to stop the flow from the booster.
14. Close Valve VC:
o Close valve VC to isolate the cylinders.
15. Open Valve V2:
o Open valve V2 to equalize the system pressure.
16. Reconnect Blue Pipe and Retrieve Cylinders:
o Reattach the blue pipe to its original position.
o Disconnect and remove the filled cylinders safely.
2. SECOND SCENARIO: FILLING CYLINDERS WITHOUT USING A VACUUM PUMP
OBJECTIVE: SAFELY FILL CYLINDERS WITHOUT PRIOR EVACUATION.
STEPS:
1. Ensure Valves V2 and V1 are Closed:
o Confirm that both valves V2 and V1 are in the closed position.
2. Connect Cylinders:
o Securely connect all cylinders that need to be filled to the filling manifold.
3. Open Valve VC:
o Open valve VC to connect the cylinders to the system.
4. Open Valve VR:
o Open valve VR.
5. Disconnect Blue Pipe:
o Disconnect the blue pipe to release any residual pressure in the system.
6. Ensure System is De-pressurized:
o Wait until all pressure is discharged before proceeding.
7. Close Valve V2:
o Close valve V2 after confirming the system is de-pressurized.
8. Open Valve V1:
o Open valve V1 to start the filling process.
o Automatic Mode: The booster will start automatically.
o Manual Mode: Press the "1" button to start the booster.
9. Monitor Filling Process:
o Allow the booster to fill the cylinders.
o The booster will stop automatically when filling is complete.
10. Close Valve V1:
o Close valve V1 to stop the flow from the booster.
11. Close Valve VC:
o Close valve VC to isolate the cylinders.
12. Open Valve V2:
o Open valve V2 to equalize the system pressure.
13. Remove Cylinders:
o Disconnect and safely remove all the filled cylinders.
14. Reconnect Blue Pipe of Vacuum Pump:
o Reattach the blue pipe to the vacuum pump for future use.
Important Notes:
• Safety First: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during the entire
procedure.
• System Checks: Before starting, ensure all equipment is in good working condition and that all
connections are secure.
• Valve Operation: Open and close valves slowly to avoid pressure shocks to the system.
• Communication: If unsure about any step, consult the Afrimed WMG WhatsApp group before
proceeding.
By carefully following this SOP, you reduce the risk of any issues with the filling ramp and ensure a safe
working environment.
