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.

Limits
ValueApplies when
1.3 x maximum internal pressureminimum test pressure of closed cryogenic receptacles (plus 100 kPa for vacuum-insulated ones)
98 %maximum liquid fill of water capacity
450 lmaximum capacity of an open cryogenic receptacle
5 yearsmaximum inspection interval of pressure relief valves
10 yearsmaximum inspection interval of non-UN closed cryogenic receptacles

Conditions

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.