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The codes A, B, C, or D printed on Indian LPG cylinders (e.g. Indane, Bharat Gas, or HP Gas) followed by two numbers (e.g. A-24 or B-26) indicate the **due date for required periodic safety testing**, not the expiration date of the gas or cylinder.

These alphanumeric markings, usually found on one of the cylinder’s side collars (shrouds), show:

– **A**: First quarter – January to March
– **B**: Second quarter – April to June
– **C**: Third quarter – July to September
– **D**: Fourth quarter – October to December

These two digits show the year (last two digits of the year). For example:
– **B-26** means that the testing of the cylinder is to be done by June 2026 (in the April-June quarter).
– **A-24** means that testing should be done by March 2024 (January-March quarter).

This is **Test Due Date** for hydrostatic or periodic inspection which is required every 5 years as per Indian Rules (Gas Cylinder Rules). During testing, the cylinders undergo a visual check, hydrostatic pressure test, and inspection for rust, dents, or metal fatigue to ensure they can safely hold high-pressure LPG. If they pass, a new test due date is stamped, and the cylinder is returned to circulation. Cylinders that fail are scrapped.

Contrary to some viral claims that it is the “expiry date” that makes the cylinder a dangerous bomb after the post-date, this is strictly a re-testing schedule. Expired cylinders are not automatically unsafe, but they should be returned for testing before refilling. Oil companies (IOCL, BPCL, HPCL) avoid circulating due dated cylinders.

Customers should always check this code before taking delivery. Refuse to accept any cylinder that has passed its test due date and ask for a replacement. Check for leaks, the safety cap is intact, the rubber hose is intact, and also check the condition of the regulator.

This system gives priority to safety, which prevents accidents caused by weak cylinders. Regular testing has been standard for decades, with official clarifications from companies like IOCL confirming that there is no fixed expiry – just periodic re-testing.