Removal of CO2 Valve for flying

[fancypants]

I've been advised by Virgin that in order to take my 6kg CO2 cylinder on a plane I will need to remove the tap/valve at the top of the cylinder to ensure the inside of the cylinder can be viewed and to verify there is no compressed gas.

I've also been told to cover the green hazardous 2.2 label.

If I can't do this, they say the tank is not permitted for carriage on an aircraft.

Has anyone removed the tap/valve from a CO2 cylinder?

Is there something special to it or simply brute force?

Should I do it myself or is there someone specialist who may be better off doing it (I went to BOC today and they wouldn't touch it)?

Is it all too much hassle - should I sell it here and buy another one when I get to my destination?

Thanks

 

[bevan]

I think you can get freighted with out any change to the cylinder (leaving it full) but it would have to go dangerous goods. You could check what Toll or Australian Air express what they would charge and if they can take it. For the hassle it might be worth selling it and getting a new one at your destination.

 

[fancypants]

Yeah, it's getting a little complicated.

Should also note that the tank is empty now.

 

[mxd]

not too sure where u r or where your going, but road freight is the best option, or sell and buy.

 

[Grott]

Road freight would be ok but I'd find out that cost, cost of another bottle where your going, sale price where you are now and take the most cost effective option.
Cheers

 

[pcmfisher]

I am glad the airlines will not let anyone take a full gas cylinder in their plane

 

[dannymars]

I have mates who regularly take the valves off all sorts of gas bottles and can verify that it's not that easy. They have a hydraulic jig rigged up that's bolted to the floor and requires a shitload of force.