What is the function of a frangible metal disk in a gas cylinder?

A frangible metal disk serves a critical safety function in a gas cylinder by rupturing at a specific pressure. This mechanism is designed to provide a controlled release of gas if the internal pressure exceeds safe limits, effectively preventing dangerous over-pressurization that could lead to cylinder failure or explosion.

The disk is engineered to break at predetermined pressure levels, ensuring that the gas is released safely into the environment instead of allowing the cylinder to build up to dangerous levels. This design is an essential component in ensuring that gas cylinders remain safe during usage and storage, particularly under extreme conditions or malfunctions.

Other options such as preventing gas release, regulating gas flow, or indicating gas type do not accurately reflect the function of the frangible disk. Instead, the disk's primary role is tied directly to pressure management and safety in gas storage and transportation.