Manufactured from a seamless aluminium liner and over wrapped with carbon fibre in an epoxy matrix. An external layer of glass fibre in an epoxy matrix is then wrapped onto the cylinder. This external layer of glass fibre is applied to enhance the resistance of the cylinder to impact and abrasion in service. Following a high temperature curing of the epoxy matrix, an external gel coat is applied to the surface of the cylinder, providing a smooth, easily cleaned surface for the cylinder.