ADR packing instruction P203
Heading in ADR: “P203 PACKING INSTRUCTION”
Refrigerated liquefied gases in closed cryogenic receptacles (test pressure, 98 % fill, relief devices) or, for listed 3A gases, open ones up to 450 l.
Covers Class 2 refrigerated liquefied gases. Closed cryogenic receptacles must meet 4.1.6 and Chapter 6.2, be insulated against frosting, be tested at 1.3 times the maximum internal pressure (plus 1 bar where vacuum-insulated), carry at least one pressure relief device and use sealing materials compatible with the contents. For 3A and 3O gases the liquid may not exceed 98 % of water capacity at filling conditions; for 3F gases the fill must stay low enough that the liquid would not reach 98 % even at the relief valve opening pressure. Relief valves are inspected at least every five years and non-UN closed receptacles at least every 10 years. Open cryogenic receptacles are permitted only for UN 1913, 1951, 1963, 1970, 1977, 2591, 3136 and 3158 (non-oxidizing, code 3A); they must be vacuum-insulated double-walled, no larger than 450 litres, stay upright, vent without splashing, and be permanently marked; when used as coolant, 5.5.3 applies.
| Value | Applies when |
|---|---|
| 1.3 x maximum internal pressure | minimum test pressure of closed cryogenic receptacles (plus 100 kPa for vacuum-insulated ones) |
| 98 % | maximum liquid fill of water capacity |
| 450 l | maximum capacity of an open cryogenic receptacle |
| 5 years | maximum inspection interval of pressure relief valves |
| 10 years | maximum inspection interval of non-UN closed cryogenic receptacles |
Conditions
- Open receptacles: withstand fatigue and normal handling; materials suited to service temperature and compatible with contents; glass double-wall ones need a cushioned outer packaging.
- Open receptacle marks: manufacturer name and address, model, serial or batch number, UN number and proper shipping name of intended gases, capacity in litres.
Refers to: 4.1.6; Chapter 6.2; 6.2.1.6.3; 6.2.3.5.2; 5.5.3.
Carried by 19 Table A entries
UN 1003 · UN 1038 · UN 1073 · UN 1913 · UN 1951 · UN 1961 · UN 1963 · UN 1966 · UN 1970 · UN 1972 · UN 1977 · UN 2187 · UN 2201 · UN 2591 · UN 3136 · UN 3138 · UN 3158 · UN 3311 · UN 3312
Source: ADR 2025 (ECE/TRANS/352), Volume II, section 4.1.4.1, P203, page 101.
Paraphrase in FreightUtils' own words, not the official text. Not yet reviewed.
ADR 2027 amendments (accepted, applying from 1 January 2027) are not yet reflected on this page.