Composite cylinders aim to improve performance, safety, and efficiency says Indian Oil

Guwahati: Composite cylinders are poised to enhance performance, safety, and efficiency across various industries. Unlike traditional steel cylinders, these innovative cylinders are significantly lighter, making transportation and handling more manageable. Their ability to withstand higher pressures allows for increased gas storage within the same volume, boosting overall performance.

Designed with advanced materials resistant to corrosion and environmental degradation, composite cylinders minimize the risk of leaks and ruptures over time. They undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to meet stringent safety standards, ensuring a high level of security for users.

In terms of efficiency, composite cylinders offer several advantages. Their lightweight nature reduces physical strain on workers, increasing productivity and decreasing workplace injuries. Additionally, their durability and long service life result in fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs. The capability to store more gas at higher pressures translates to fewer refills and better resource utilization.

In conclusion, composite cylinders represent a significant advancement in gas storage technology. They offer enhanced performance, increased safety, and improved efficiency, meeting the demands of various industries and applications.

The Chief General Manager of Indian Oil Corporation (Liquid Petroleum Gas), Dr D.P. Vidyarthi spoke in an exclusive interview with Business North East on the Composite Gas Cylinder and other important products for the public.

Excerpts of the interview are as follows:-

Business North East: We have all heard about the Composite GA Cylinder, but could you please tell the public what it is and its advantages?

Chief General Manager: Certainly. Composite cylinders are essentially much lighter, about 50% lighter than conventional steel cylinders. They are designed with high safety standards and are blast-proof. Additionally, they have an aesthetically pleasing appearance and some models are even transparent. Environmentally, they are also a better choice.

BNE: Why this cylinder is introduced?
CGM: Composite cylinders are lightweight alternatives to traditional steel cylinders, offering several advantages. They are 50% lighter than metals, making them ideal for applications like aerospace, automotive, and portable gas storage systems. Composite materials also resist corrosion, enhancing their lifespan and durability in harsh environments. They burst in a controlled manner in case of overpressure or failure, reducing the risk of catastrophic explosions. Composites also offer greater design flexibility, making them easier to achieve than metals. Additionally, their lighter weight contributes to increased energy efficiency, making them suitable for vehicles and aerospace applications. Overall, composite cylinders aim to improve performance, safety, and efficiency while reducing weight and maintenance requirements across various industries.

BNE: How will people apply for it? Is there an offline option as well? It was found that the security deposit for the domestic non-subsidized category is Rs 3000 for the 10 kg variant and Rs 2200 for the 5 kg variant. Will the customer be able to install it free of cost by exchanging the old cylinder?

CGM: The application process for obtaining composite LPG cylinders involves both online and offline options. Online applications can be made through gas distributors' websites or mobile apps, requiring personal details, gas connection details, and a choice of cylinder (5 kg or 10 kg). Offline applications can be made by customers visiting the nearest LPG distributor or agency, requiring a form and submitting proof of identity and address.
 
Exchanges for old cylinders are possible for non-subsidized cylinder holders, who can exchange their regular metal LPG cylinder for a composite cylinder, but may need to pay the difference between the old cylinder's security deposit and the composite cylinder. Subsidized cylinder holders may not be able to exchange their subsidized cylinders directly for a composite cylinder, and may need to apply for a new non-subsidized connection or pay for the composite cylinder separately.
 
Offline applications are available through gas distributors or agencies, and customers must pay a security deposit of Rs 3000 for a 10 kg cylinder and Rs 2200 for a 5 kg cylinder.

BNE: When there is more importance to piped natural gas these days do you think Indane Composite Cylinder will be successful?
CGM: Despite the rise of PNG, composite cylinders can still be successful.
Composite cylinders are a popular alternative to traditional steel cylinders due to their weight, portability, safety, durability, flexibility, and specific applications. They are lighter, corrosion-resistant, and can burst in a controlled manner during accidents, making them a safer option for consumers. They are also more flexible for frequent household movements and are ideal for specific uses like camping, outdoor cooking, and industries. Composite cylinders are low maintenance and cost-effective due to their strength and durability. They have a visually appealing design, making them a popular choice for FMCG products. Additionally, they are free from explosions due to the controlled combustion of LPG, which occurs when the resin is burnt off and the plastic-casting metals are blown through the cylinder wall during a fire. This makes them safer in case of a major fire compared to steel cylinders.

BNE: what will be the cost of the said 5kg and 10kg cylinders?
CGM: Indane Composite Cylinders are priced at 5 kg and 10 kg, with a security deposit of ₹2,200 for the 5 kg cylinder and ₹3,000 for the 10 kg cylinder. The deposit covers the cost of the cylinder and is refundable, if cylinder is returned to the Distributorship. The refill cost depends on the market price of LPG, which fluctuates due to factors like international crude oil prices, government policies, and local taxes. The 5 kg LPG refill typically ranges between ₹400 and ₹700, depending on the region, while the 10 kg refill may range from ₹800 to ₹1,400. Additional charges include delivery fees, which may vary by distributor and location, and regulator charges (if applicable) for new connections. The estimated total costs for a 5 kg cylinder are ₹2,700 (security deposit) + ₹500 (refill cost) = ₹2,700, and ₹3,000 (security deposit) + ₹1,000 (refill cost) = ₹4,000. The refill cost will continue to vary based on market rates, but the security deposit remains fixed.

BNE: How is it different from a normal cylinder?
CGM: The Indane Composite Cylinder is a lighter and heavier alternative to traditional steel cylinders. It is made of polyethylene, fiberglass, and polymer, and is corrosion-resistant. It offers a modern, sleek design and is suitable for urban areas, households with portability, and those seeking a modern, convenient option. However, due to higher initial costs, traditional cylinders may still be popular in rural areas where affordability is a key concern. The composite cylinder's lifespan is longer due to corrosion resistance, while its aesthetics are more basic and utilitarian.

BNE: What safety measures are present? Is it true that it is blast-proof? 
CGM: Yes, Indane Composite Cylinders are designed with enhanced safety features, and they are often marketed as being "blast-proof" or highly resistant to explosions.

Composite cylinders are designed to rupture in controlled ways in the event of extreme pressure or damage, reducing the risk of a catastrophic explosion. 

 
Composite cylinders are designed to be durable and resistant to leaks, with proper seals and high-quality valve fittings used to minimize the risk of accidental gas leakage. They are made from materials that do not rust or corrode, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and fiberglass, which enhances long-term safety.
 
Composite cylinders are more impact-resistant than steel cylinders, reducing the risk of gas leaks due to physical damage. They also have non-magnetic properties, reducing the risk of sparks caused by contact with other metals.
 
Composite cylinders are lighter in weight, making them easier to handle and transport. The semi-transparent outer layer allows users to see the gas level, indirectly enhancing safety by reducing the chances of unexpected gas shortages.

BNE: That sounds impressive. Could you please tell us about the new products launched by your company recently, especially in the Northeast?
CGM: Yes, we've recently launched a new product in the Northeast called the Muna, which is a 2 kg cylinder. We launched it this month in the state of Meghalaya. The 2 kg cylinder is very useful for migrant workers and street food vendors. Another new product we introduced is a 5 kg cylinder in Assam, which comes as a complete set including the cooktop, so there’s no need to purchase the cooktop separately.

BNE: Can you tell us more about the Indane XTRATEJ  and its penetration in the Northeast market?
CGM: The extra NE is a non-domestic category cylinder that is in high demand in the market. It is an exclusive product for the Indian market and offers significant savings—around 5% savings in LPG consumption and a reduction in cooking time by approximately 14%. It is priced competitively, just slightly higher than the standard 19 kg LPG cylinder.

BNE: We are aware that there are fluctuations in LPG prices, often monthly. Will these new products help reduce such fluctuations or provide any stability in pricing for the public?
CGM: The prices for composite cylinders are adjusted monthly, just like other LPG products.