Compressed air is made of the same air you breathe in and out, but that air is compressed into a smaller size and kept under pressure. The compressed air that leaves an air compressor is typically not as hot as the air inside the compression chamber. Keep in mind that canned air, those small cans of compressed air used to clean electronics and computer equipment, is not the same thing as true compressed air.
Air compressor explosions are most commonly caused by substantial corrosion of the compressor tank. Air compressors do not pose the same risks to your safety as natural gas or propane, but without proper maintenance and monitoring, compressor explosions can cause massive damage. How to Prevent Air Compressors from Blowing Up. In order to avoid a catastrophic explosion, you can follow a few steps to ensure your compressor operates at a safe level.
Although manufacturing defects can caused a tank to explode, the leading cause of air compressor tank rupture is corrosion of the tank from water condensate. Air Tank Explosion, White Plains, NY.This air tank compressor exploded in April 2009 at a homeowner’s garage in White Plains, NY. No one was injured when the tank failed. Air Compressor Tank Explosion, Newark, NJ.This air tank compressor failed due to improper maintenance.
CAUSE OF EXPLOSION OF AIR COMPRESSOR TANKS. There have been incidents where the air holding tank of a compressor explodes. Although manufacturing defects can caused a tank to explode, the leading cause of air compressor tank rupture is corrosion of the tank from water condensate. It is possible for an air receiver tank holding compressed air to explode.
why do air compressors explode Related Question:
Is it common for air compressor to explode?
Yes, air compressors can blow up. Air compressor explosions are most commonly caused by substantial corrosion of the compressor tank. Excessive condensation leads to corrosion, and you can avoid this outcome by monitoring and servicing the compressor and its auxiliary components.
What causes an air compressor to explode?
Whenever dust, dirt, and mineral scales accumulate on the condenser coil, the air conditioning system cannot evacuate enough heat generated, forcing it to operate continually to chill the room. Because of the higher temperature and pressure, the compressor may overheat and explode.
What pressure will air compressor explode?
If air compressor tanks overheat, it can cause the pressure within the cylinder to increase up to 2000 PSI, leading to an explosion of compressed air tanks.
How long does an air compressor last?
SGS Engineers states that reciprocating air compressors can have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years (Source). However, our field experience at VMAC suggests that reciprocating air compressors rarely last this length of time, and 5-10 years is a more realistic estimate with appropriate maintenance.
Can a rusted air compressor tank explode?
Rust. If the tank is not drained daily, liquid can accumulate in the bottom of the tank over time. This liquid can corrode the bottom interior of the tank, eventually leading to the air pressure inside rupturing the weakened metal and causing an explosion.
Should you leave air in compressor?
The short answer is yes, it is perfectly safe to leave an air compressor full. However, this assumes that it has been properly maintained, with regular draining to remove accumulated moisture from inside the tank.
How often should I drain my air compressor?
It is recommended that you drain your tank daily, whether it is manually or automatically. Water build up in your tank can cause the bottom of your tank to rust forcing you to invest in a new tank. If you find yourself forget about draining your tank, you should look into purchasing an electronic drain valve.
Can an air compressor explode in cold weather?
All compressed air system components are vulnerable to damage in cold weather because of the way that condensate moves through the system. Frozen condensate can cause air or water blockages in air compressor accessories and receiver tanks.
What happens if air compressor is not drained?
When air compressors run humidity in the air they compress condenses in the tank. The resulting water sits in the bottom of the tank until it is drained. When not drained regularly the tank will rust from the inside out, when the tank is weakened enough it will often fail catastrophically.
When should I replace my air compressor tank?
Depending on the condition of your compressed air system, it may be more cost-effective to repair your machine’s failing parts or to replace your machine altogether. Consider repairing your air compressor if: It has completed less than 50,000 hours of service or has been operating for less than 10 years.
Are air compressor tanks safe?
Air compressor tanks may look good on the outside, but unseen interior damage can pose serious dangers. If in doubt, replace your unit. When replacing units, always dispose of them properly.
How do I extend the life of my AC compressor?
The best way to prolong the lifespan of your AC unit is to keep it clean, maintained, and free from debris both inside and out. Do not run it at too cold a temperature if it is not necessary, and turn it off when you can handle the indoor temperature-such as evenings when the outdoor temperatures drop.
Are oil less compressors any good?
While oil-free air compressors are cheaper, lighter and require less maintenance, oil air compressors are more durable. As the oil-free compressors are pre-lubricated, there is no constant maintenance and the unit tends to get dry when the Teflon starts wearing out. They don’t last as long as oil air compressors.
What is an oilless air compressor?
Oilless compressors do not use oil for lubricating. Instead, their wearable parts are coated in special friction-reducing chemicals and are designed to be self-lubricating for the life of the compressor.
Can air compressor catch fire?
Risk of fire or explosion with air compressor motor Electrical contacts within the air compressor motor or pressure switch can spark, creating a risk for fire or explosion. Serious overheating caused by the restriction of ventilation openings in the air compressor also poses a risk of fire.
