Hydrogen fuel system inspection labels are applied to hydrogen fuel cylinders to demonstrate the “Pass” or “Fail” result of a detailed hydrogen cylinder inspection. These inspections are required under ANSI HGV 2 and DOT FMVSS 308, which establish safety requirements for hydrogen fuel system inspection and integrity.
While ANSI HGV 2 governs hydrogen cylinder manufacturing and inspection requirements, and FMVSS 308 governs hydrogen fuel storage system integrity, industry best practices recognize that high-pressure hydrogen fuel systems experience repeated stress from pressure and temperature cycling. As a result, the entire hydrogen fuel system, including high-pressure components such as stainless-steel tubing and fittings, should be inspected alongside the cylinder to ensure continued safe operation.
A detailed visual inspection of hydrogen cylinders must be conducted by qualified inspectors at the following intervals:
After any fire or accident, regardless of vehicle GVWR
For vehicles less than 10,000 pounds GVWR, hydrogen cylinders must undergo a detailed visual inspection at least every 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first
For vehicles 10,000 pounds GVWR or greater, hydrogen cylinders must undergo a detailed visual inspection at least every 12 months
Hydrogen cylinders must also be inspected if they have been over-pressurized, dropped, impacted, reinstalled on a different vehicle, or exposed to excessive heat, fire, or harsh chemicals.
During the inspection process, inspectors must apply the appropriate hydrogen cylinder inspection label to clearly document the inspection outcome:
A blue “PASSED Hydrogen Cylinder Inspection” label is used when a cylinder successfully passes inspection in accordance with ANSI HGV 2 and DOT FMVSS 308. The label provides documentation fields for inspector information, inspection date, cylinder serial number, VIN, vehicle mileage, and next inspection date or mileage.
A red “FAILED Hydrogen Cylinder Inspection” label is used when a cylinder does not meet inspection requirements.
Level 2 failures require immediate defueling of the cylinder, followed by repair and reinspection, or servicing by the manufacturer, before continued use.
Level 3 failures require immediate defueling, and the cylinder must be removed from service and destroyed in accordance with applicable safety procedures.
You may order Hydrogen Cylinder Inspection Labels directly from our website. Labels are sold in packs and are designed for durability, visibility, and clear inspection documentation.
If you have questions about AFVi’s Hydrogen Cylinder Inspection Labels, please click here.
