Used Tube Trailers for Sale

What is a tube trailer?

A road trailer carrying multiple seamless steel or composite tubes of compressed gas, typically rated 2,400–3,500 PSIG, used to move bulk gas — helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, CNG — between a supply point and a customer site.

What's the difference between steel and composite tube trailers?

Steel tubes are heavier, so a steel trailer carries less gas within the same road weight limit. Carbon-fibre-wrapped composite tubes weigh far less and carry substantially more gas per trip, which is why they dominate hydrogen and high-volume helium logistics — at a higher purchase price.

What should I check first on a used tube trailer?

The requalification status and next test date, before anything else — an expired trailer is a rehab project, not a delivery asset, and requalifying a full set of tubes is a significant cost. Then the tube markings and stampings, the valves and manifold, the chassis, suspension, brakes and tires, and the gas service the tubes have been in.

What paperwork should come with one?

The DOT specification markings and manufacture dates on the tubes, the last requalification records, and the trailer title and chassis documentation. Ask for prior gas service history — converting between gas services can require cleaning, valve changes and in some cases recertification.

What fails or costs money on these?

Requalification timing dominates the economics. Beyond that, valves and manifold components are consumable, chassis and running gear need the same maintenance as any trailer, and on composite units the overwrap is the item to protect — impact and abrasion damage there is not a cosmetic issue.