Which design feature helps ensure the correct gas type is connected to its inlet or outlet?

Which design feature helps ensure the correct gas type is connected to its inlet or outlet?

• A. Color coding
• B. Locking connectors
• C. Different shapes for each gas type
• D. Labeling with gas names only

Answer: (C)

Preventing cross-connection of gases relies on physical keying of fittings. Using different shapes for each gas type means the inlet and outlet are designed to fit only with their matching counterpart, so the correct gas can only mate with the correct port. This creates a reliable, mechanical safeguard that works even if colors fade, labels are misread, or someone misidentifies the gas by sight. Color coding can aid quick identification, but it can be ambiguous in poor lighting or if colors are similar or worn. Locking connectors help prevent unintended disconnection, but they don’t inherently ensure the right gas type is connected. Labeling with gas names relies on reading and attention, which leaves room for human error. The shape-based keying provides the strongest, fail-safe way to ensure the correct gas connection.

Preventing cross-connection of gases relies on physical keying of fittings. Using different shapes for each gas type means the inlet and outlet are designed to fit only with their matching counterpart, so the correct gas can only mate with the correct port. This creates a reliable, mechanical safeguard that works even if colors fade, labels are misread, or someone misidentifies the gas by sight.

Color coding can aid quick identification, but it can be ambiguous in poor lighting or if colors are similar or worn. Locking connectors help prevent unintended disconnection, but they don’t inherently ensure the right gas type is connected. Labeling with gas names relies on reading and attention, which leaves room for human error. The shape-based keying provides the strongest, fail-safe way to ensure the correct gas connection.