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It is illegal in all states to transport compressed gas cylinders with regulators, hoses, ect. attached to the tank valve. D.O.T. approved transport caps must also be installed completely. Caps may not completely prevent a fire or explosion from happening because the valve got damaged but they will help for the most part. Another function of the cap is allow a controlled release of over pressure within the tank without causing the tank to become a projectile. There is a reason for the two slots or multiple holes in the cap, these allow the gas to be vented in opposing directions creating an equal force holding the tank in place. Acet tanks and others with liquids in them such as liquid O2 and LPG, must be transported in the vertical position with the caps installed and facing up. Tanks must also be secured with D.O.T. approved nylon transport straps or transport chain and binders to prevent any movement. MSHA, DEP and EPA regulated sites also require all tanks be disconnected and capped before being moved even if off road or inside a structure. This applies even if the tanks are not mounted on a vehicle, torch carts are considered "transportation devices" in the eyes of most agencies such as those listed above. Those caps that allow for installation of the regulator are only designed to prevent theft and or tampering with the tank valve, not for tansportation. Outside storage cages/racks must also meet many conditions set forth by government agencies. In most cases, complying with the NFPA regulations will suffice to satisfy other agencies and insurance companies. Certain locations and conditions constitute the need for specific application regulations and if in doubt, safest bet is to contact the appropriate agency before getting your butt in the ringer. Water going vessels fall under the control of the US Coast Guard and their regulations apply for all marine uses, on inland waterways and at sea.
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