Leak testing air tanks

[jtisdale]

My Dad got an air tank for me about 14 years ago off a yard truck they had where he worked. It was for an on board air system he was rigging up on my old Chevy dually. We never got it done, and the tank has laid in the corner of the shop ever since. After finding it, while looking for something else, I have decided to put it on this truck. It looks to be in excellent shape, and it was an air tank off a semi to start with.

I want to test it for leaks. I plan to fill it (95% or so) with water, and then pressurize it to 5 psi and let it sit for a few days, while monitoring the pressure.

Is this the right way to test a tank like this without blowing myself up? I have heard many a scary story about stuff like this.

Thanks

 

[WadePatton]

Heck no. Pressurize it with air and then use a spray bottle with a soapy mixture (dish liquid and water) to spray all suspect areas. Leaks will bubble.

 

[illflem]

I'm with Wade, if it was designed to be an air tank and doesn't look like it's been run over by a truck just test it with air and soapy water.

 

[Scot]

High pressure cylinders are normally tested by filling them with water and pressurizing to 5/3 of working pressure. This is done in a water filled jacket and the expansion is noted for pass/fail. I have seen cylinders dating back to the teens still in use.



I cannot imagine an air tank deflagrating unless it is severely rusted or crushed. If yours looks good, I would just use it.

 

[jtisdale]

Thanks for the help. I got new plugs, and pumped it right up to 125 psi. No leaks. Next is to sand blast and paint it, then to decide where to mount it.