In the world of industrial operations, industrial gases play a critical role in a variety of processes. From welding, cutting, food packaging, metal fabrication and medical applications, these gases are the backbone of many industries. One interesting facet of industrial gas supply is the availability of different cylinder sizes.

With such a vast choice of cylinders on the market, and each supplier using different names and terminology, it can seem confusing. Yet despite this variety, accurate gas quantity should be the key focus. Whether they are referred to as:

S, M, L or mini, midi, Maxi or 10L, 30L or 50L

For most companies, large cylinders offer convenience with less cylinder changes, cost efficiency and reduced storage on site. Yet different suppliers call them different names from W, Maxi, 50L, or large cylinder, yet one thing is clear they are not all comparable. This is true for all sizes of cylinders offered small medium or large.

Every cylinder supplier seems to offer cylinders which are slightly different despite been ‘large’ cylinders. These differences vary by cylinder size (water capacity), cylinder pressures and in the case of bundles / banks / MCP’s the physical number of cylinders ranging from 12,14, 15 and 16 individual cylinders.

Which such variability between suppliers it makes it hard to compare one supplier offer with the next once and thereby the cost which you pay and the overall impact on your organisation.

For example:

A ‘large’ industrial oxygen cylinder.

In the example above there is almost an 11% difference in gas contents so in reality you should see the same difference in price, additional handling and deliveries or extra rentals to compensate. Depending on the size of your organisation and the volumes of gases consumed these small differences can add up causing significant cost implications.

While the availability of different cylinder sizes offers flexibility for different industries and applications, the real challenge lies in accurately monitoring and managing gas quantities on site. Whether it’s to avoid downtime, cut costs, improve safety, or maintain compliance, knowing how much gas is on hand at any given moment is vital. It’s not just about having the right size of cylinder, it’s about ensuring the right amount of gas is being used efficiently.

In an age where precision and optimisation are key, keeping a close eye on cylinder contents to determine best overall value is more important than ever. Businesses that master this balance stand to gain significant competitive advantages, from cost savings to improved operational efficiency.

At price check gases we always recommend comparing the molecule price between different suppliers. Whether that’s m3, KG or Litres, at least you will be in a better position to know who is offering your organisation the best price for the gas. Leaving you free to look at other supply considerations such as availability, service, tech support, and delivery.