EQUIPMENT COMPATIBILITY: METAL SELECTION FOR TELONE™ by TELEOS SOIL FUMIGANT

Posted on | by Justin Harrison

This blog post is all about the importance of using the appropriate metals when handling TELONE™ by Teleos soil fumigant. Failure to use compatible metals can lead to equipment failures, with potential for serious injury. While it might be tempting to cut corners with cheaper materials, the risk is never worth it. Read on to learn what materials are compatible with TELONE™, and best practices. When in doubt, consult the TELONE™ by Teleos Storage & Handling Guide or reach out to your TELONE™ Specialist at Teleos. Remember, there’s no coming back from a poor start—especially with stewardship!

METAL COMPATIBILITY MATTERS

Tanker unloading operations with proper valves.

TELONE™ by Teleos soil fumigant contains 1,3-Dichloropropene (1,3-D), which can degrade certain metals when product is left in contact for extended periods. Incompatible materials may corrode, weaken, or release residue, leading to sticking valves, restricted flow, leaks, or equipment failure. Using approved metals is essential for safe, reliable TELONE™ storage, transfer, and application. Proper material selection helps prevent equipment damage, product contamination, and loading or application delays. Maintaining an inert, dry atmosphere in TELONE™ equipment helps minimize corrosion across all metals and supports long-term equipment integrity and reliable operation.

RECOMMENDED METALS FOR TELONE™ SERVICE

Stainless steel custom adapter for loading.
  • CARBON STEEL: Standard and preferred material for most TELONE™ storage, bulk tanks, pumps, transfer lines, and valves.
  • STAINLESS STEEL (300-SERIES): Highly compatible and preferred for valves, adapters, metering equipment, and precision components.
  • BRASS/BRONZE: Generally acceptable for fittings on application equipment and valves when low-lead alloys are used.

METALS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR TELONE™ SERVICE

Aluminum valve with TELONE™ residue left inside.
  • ALUMINUM, TIN, ZINC, OR THEIR ALLOYS: Not recommended for valves, adapters, pumps, meters, or any component that is in direct contact with TELONE™.

Aluminum may corrode or degrade when exposed to TELONE™, particularly when product is trapped in components between uses. This degradation may not be immediately visible but can result in rapid mechanical failure and hazardous decomposition.

Degradation of valve internals due to incompatibility.

COMMON EQUIPMENT AREAS TO REVIEW

Handlers should confirm metal compatibility for all TELONE™-wetted components, including:

  • Trailer and bulk tank valves
  • Transfer hoses and dry-lock adapters
  • Application rig plumbing and tip-ups
  • Metering and flow-control equipment
  • Any custom adapters

BEST PRACTICES

  • Avoid aluminum components anywhere TELONE™ may contact metal
  • Drain and properly secure equipment after each use to prevent trapped product
  • Inspect valves and adapters regularly for sticking, discoloration, or residue
  • Replace questionable components approved materials
  • Verify material compatibility before installing replacement or aftermarket parts

RESOURCES

The TELONE™ by Teleos soil fumigant Storage & Handling Guide is an excellent resource. Always follow label instructions.

You can download the content from this blog post in a downloadable/printable PDF.

Disclaimer:
The resources and information provided are meant purely for educational discussion, contains only general information about legal matters, and is not to be construed as advice. Please note that any information or resources provided are not legal or regulatory advice, and should not be treated as such. You must not rely on the information provided as an alternative to legal advice from your attorney or other professional services. Teleos Ag encourages readers to consult with counsel, and their local, county, and state regulators. We make no representations or warranties, express or implied, in relation to the information provided through our resources and blog posts. It is the readers responsibility to know the laws related to 1,3- D, appropriate PPE, Licensing, etc., in his or her City, County, State, and Country. TELONE™ and Teleos Ag Solutions™ are registered trademarks of Teleos Ag Solutions, Inc. TELONE™ by Teleos is a federally Restricted Use Pesticide. Always read and follow label directions.

Justin Harrison
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