
5-ENG
OnFebruary26,2002,theU.S.ConsumerProductSafetyCommission
published Release # 02-108 concerning air compressor tank safety:
Air compressor receiver tanks do not have an infinite life. Tank life is dependent
upon several factors, some of which include operating conditions, ambient con-
ditions, proper installations, field modifications, and the level of maintenance.
The exact effect of these factors on air receiver life is difficult to predict.
If proper maintenance procedures are not followed, internal corrosion to the
inner wall of the air receiver tank can cause the air tank to unexpectedly rupture
allowing pressurized air to suddenly and forcefully escape, posing risk of injury to
consumers.
Your compressor air tank must be removed from service by the end of the year
shown on your tank warning label.
The following conditions could lead to a weakening of the air tank, and result in a
violent air tank explosion:
• Failuretoproperlydraincondensed
water from air tank, causing rust and
thinning of the steel air tank.
• Drainairtankdailyoraftereachuse.
If air tank develops a leak, replace it
immediately with a new air tank or
replace the entire compressor.
• Modificationsorattemptedrepairsto
the air tank. • Neverdrillinto,weld,ormakeany
modifications to the air tank or its
attachments. Never attempt to
repair a damaged or leaking air tank.
Replace with a new air tank.
• Unauthorizedmodificationstothe
safety valve or any other components
which control air tank pressure.
• Theairtankisdesignedtowithstand
specific operating pressures.
Never make adjustments or parts
substitutions to alter the factory set
operating pressures.
• Excessivevibrationcanweakenthe
air tank of a stationary compressor
and cause an explosion.
• Thecompressormustbeproperly
mounted, see under
Installation.
• Exceedingthepressureratingof
air tools, spray guns, air operated
accessories, tires, and other
inflatables can cause them to
explode or fly apart, and could result
in serious injury.
• Followtheequipmentmanufacturers
recommendation and never exceed
the maximum allowable pressure
rating of attachments. Never use
compressor to inflate small low
pressure objects such as children’s
toys, footballs, basketballs, etc.