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How to Service Aviation Oxygen Bottles

For the safety of pilots and passengers on commercial aircraft, oxygen cylinders, or bottles, must be inspected and hydrostatically tested every three to five years depending on the type of bottle. Out-of-date bottles cannot be re-filled until they are re-certified per Department of Transportation regulations. Refilling an out-of-date bottle is extremely hazardous. A hydrostatic test is performed by first visually inspecting the bottle then filling the bottle with water to a pressure of 1.67 times the rated pressure to ensure it is safe for continued use. If the test is successful, a new hydrostatic test date is stamped onto the bottle. If you are not an aviation maintenance technician (AMT), secure the assistance of one before beginning.

Screwdrivers (assorted)
Wrenches (assorted)

Instructions

Inspection and Testing
- 1
  Refer to the aircraft maintenance manual for proper removal and replacement procedures and review the directions for the specific aircraft.
- 2
  Access the bottle by removing necessary aircraft panels with the screwdriver.
- 3
  Check the most recent date stamp near the top of the bottle to determine if testing is necessary.
- 4
  Confirm the bottle valve is closed and remove it using a wrench according to the maintenance manual instructions. Do not empty any remaining oxygen.
- 5
  Cap all oxygen lines on the aircraft to prevent contamination or moisture intrusion.
- 6
  Deliver bottle to an authorized testing facility. Secure and cap the bottle during transport. If testing is successful, most facilities will refill the bottle with oxygen.
- 7
  Replace the bottle according to the maintenance manual and replace aircraft access panels.
- 8
  Enter the oxygen bottle service into the aircraft maintenance logbook.

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How to Service Aviation Oxygen Bottles

Instructions

Inspection and Testing