Air compressors

[Exhaustgases]

I have always wondered why they are not treated with a paint or sealer inside the tank, sort of like some folks have done with old car and motor cycle gas tanks?

Here is a good reason that it should be done, but then this could have been a stuck relay or pressure relief issue as well.

 

[GrumpyCat]

You know your air compressor has a drain valve on the bottom to let water out?

 

[AutoMechanic]

Wow. I need to check ours my dad purchased it in 1997 and it’s been tucked away in a corner out of sight and out of mind but very handy. I’d hate for it to explode.

 

[Ronsant]

What makes a compressor explode? Rusty tank? Wouldn’t it get pinhole leaks first?
I always drain mine, is there anything else that needs to be done?
Scary to see the force of that explosion.

 

[clinebarger]

What makes a compressor explode? Rusty tank? Wouldn’t it get pinhole leaks first?
I always drain mine, is there anything else that needs to be done?
Scary to see the force of that explosion.

Replace the relief valve every 5 years or so. A magnetic starter isn't a bad idea....Takes the amp load off the pressure switch contacts thus lowering the chance of the contacts getting welded together.

I spent my entire career around air compressors & yes they develop pinholes if neglected.

 

[Rand]

I wonder if perhaps the tank had a repair done to it.. the victim seemed very handy.

A weld repair can cause issues.

 

[clinebarger]

Wow. I need to check ours my dad purchased it in 1997 and it’s been tucked away in a corner out of sight and out of mind but very handy. I’d hate for it to explode.

I drain my shop compressor every week & my home garage compressor every month.

 

[CDX825]

Gotta keep those air tanks drained often. Old tanks should also be hydro tested if the tank is in questionable shape.

 

[Exhaustgases]

You know your air compressor has a drain valve on the bottom to let water out?

And?
Yeah its drained at the end of what ever day it is, that it was used, not real continuous use item. And the factory set pressure was I think 175 psi, changed that many years ago to 150. I hope the compressor passes some oil mist into the tank for a bit of rust prevention as well.

Also this can be an issue with a hot water heater tank too, just an fyi.

 

[Lubener]

Mine is drained after each use.

 

[dlundblad]

My brother bought this piece of crap Craftsman thing that won’t turn off until the gauge is well into the red.

I’ll have to send this video to him.