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.
In the past, there have been cases where the air holding tank on a compressor exploded. Most cases of an exploding air compressor tank result from an individual failing to follow the guidelines listed in their owner’s manual. Many air compressor manufacturers advise that you drain the tank after each use.
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.
04-29-2014, 07:15 PM #1 Air Compressor tanks DO explode There are people that insist they don’t and will just leak slowly when they rust. 04-29-2014, 07:47 PM #2. 04-29-2014, 07:57 PM #3. 04-29-2014, 08:00 PM #4 I knew an old machinist that made his own air compressor from old parts he found. 04-29-2014, 08:38 PM #7 The t&d guy I was learning from once inflated the skin from his hand on unregulated air.
Using a ball peen hammer tap around the bottom of the tank, and if it dents easily, then that is an indication that the tank is going bad. If you like the compressor, then just buy a replacement tank from a compressor company, or you might be able to take yours to them, and they will do the conversion for you.
how to prevent air compressor explosion Related Question:
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.
Can air compressor tanks explode?
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.
How do I make sure my air compressor is safe?
– Do not use gas air compressors indoors. – Perform a routine safety check before each use of your air compressor. Check hoses, ensure proper power supply, check oil level, etc. – Always wear eye protection and hearing protection when operating your air compressor.
How often should you drain your 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.
Should you leave air in compressor?
With so much air under so much pressure, can you leave an air compressor full? 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.
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.
Is it safe to run an air compressor inside?
Unless it’s powered electrically, you should always use an air compressor outdoors. Gas air compressors should never be used indoors, as they produce toxic fumes in the form of carbon monoxide.
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.
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 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.
Is it safe to weld an air compressor tank?
Metal walled air compressor tanks can be welded safely. The thickness of the wall and the condition of the tank are essential to consider to determine if the tank is safe to begin welding on and to decide which process of welding that you should consider.
What are the dangers of an air compressor?
What are some of the most common hazards related to air compressors? They include electrical dangers, fumes, flying particles, high pressures and high noise levels. Electrical dangers: If an outlet isn’t grounded correctly, it can result in electrical shocks for your operators or irreparable damage for the machine.
Should I release pressure from compressor?
It is best to release the pressure from compressors that will not be used for an extended period. Compressed air causes condensation, which, if allowed to build up, can cause the tank to rust.
Do compressors hold air?
Air Compressor: Why won’t my air compressor tank hold air? The air compressor’s air tank will rust and eventually leak air if you don’t drain condensate water from the tank through the tank drain valve regularly.
What PSI should I set my air compressor?
Most air tools require between 70 and 90 PSI. Any light-to-medium-duty air compressor can easily handle 90 PSI, but you always want the compressor to supply more flow than needed. Pro Tip: Always respect a PSI rating. If you don’t supply enough air volume, the tool won’t operate correctly.
