Do Air Compressor Tanks Expire?

Do Air Compressor Tanks Expire?

An air compressor tank is a necessary part of the equipment for many trades and businesses, from construction to automotive work. But do these tanks have an expiration date and how can you tell if your tank needs to be replaced?
To answer all of these questions I have written a detailed guide on it so without any further ado let's take a look at it.

An air compressor is a tool that uses a gas engine or electric motor to power a device that draws in successive volumes of air from the atmosphere, compresses it, and transfers it to a storage tank. In most cases, the storage tank is pressure-sensitive and will need to be replaced after a certain amount of time and the lifespan of an air compressor tank varies depending on the make and model, but generally speaking, they will last anywhere from 5 to 15 or even 20 years if they are properly maintained.

How Long Do Air Compressor Tanks Last?

It is a common question that many people ask how long do air compressor tanks last? And the answer may depend on a few factors, but typically, an air compressor tank can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years. Of course, this all depends on how often you use your air compressor and for what purposes.

If you only use your air compressor occasionally for light duties such as inflating tires, then your compressor tank will likely last on the higher end of the spectrum however, if you use your air compressor regularly for heavier tasks such as powering tools, then it will likely need to be replaced more frequently.

There are a few things that affect the life of your air compressor tank which will be discussed below.

Things That Affect Air Compressor Tank Life:

An air compressor tank is a vital part of the compressed air system. The tank stores a reserve of compressed air that can be used when the demand for air is greater than the compressor can supply. The life of an air compressor tank can be affected by a number of things such as:

How Often The Maintenance Is Performed:

If an air compressor tank is not properly maintained, it can have a number of negative effects on the tank itself and on the air compressor.

First, if the tank is not properly drained, moisture can build up inside the tank which causes rusting and this will shorten the life of the tank and may eventually lead to leaks. Second, if the tank is not regularly serviced, dirt or other contaminants can build up in the bottom of the tank and clog the valves or other parts of the air compressor and this can cause reduced efficiency or even complete failure of the air compressor.

The Size Of The Tank:

The size of the tank on an air compressor can have a big effect on its lifespan as a smaller tank will require the compressor to run more often, which can lead to more wear and tear. A larger tank will allow the compressor to run less often, which can help extend its lifespan. The size of the tank is just one factor that can affect an air compressor's lifespan, but it's something to keep in mind when choosing a model.

Climate And Temperature:

An air compressor tank is an essential part of the machinery, and its life expectancy is affected by both climate and temperature. In cold climates, the tank is more likely to suffer from condensation and freezing, while in hot climates, the tank is more likely to overheat. By understanding the effect of climate and temperature on air compressor tanks, you can extend the life of your equipment.

How Much It Is Used:

An air compressor tank is a vital part of the air compressor. It is responsible for storing compressed air so that it can be used when needed. The life of an air compressor tank depends on how often it is used and how well it is maintained. If an air compressor tank is used frequently, it will have a shorter lifespan than one that is used infrequently and this is because the frequent use will cause wear and tear on the tank.

Additionally, if the tank is not properly maintained, it will corrode and weaken over time.

Where Is The Compressor Stored:

The location of an air compressor can affect its tank life. If an air compressor is stored in a humid or wet environment, the moisture can rust the tank and shorten its lifespan. Additionally, if an air compressor is stored in a very cold environment, the condensation can freeze and crack the tank. It is important to store an air compressor in a dry, temperature-controlled environment to extend its life.

Lubrication:

Air compressor tanks are built to last, but with proper lubrication, they can last even longer. By keeping the tank properly lubricated, you can extend its life by preventing rust and corrosion. Additionally, proper lubrication will help keep the tank in good working condition, making it less likely to break down or need repairs.

And some common problems that can occur if an air compressor is not properly lubricated include premature wear on parts, increased noise levels, as well as reduced efficiency.

When Should You Replace The Air Compressor Tank:

Now, you might be wondering when I should replace my air tank or how I will know that my compressor tank is close to expiry, worry not as here are some things you need to check to ensure that your tank is fine or needs to be replaced.

Check The Tank For Any Cracks Or Rust:

When you notice your air compressor isn't working as it should, the first thing you should check is the tank both from the outside and inside. Over time, tanks can develop cracks or rust, which can cause major problems and if you see any cracks or rust, it's time to replace your tank.

When Draining The Tank Inspect The Liquid:

When draining the air tank, always inspect the liquid from the inside. When dealing with a rusty air tank, always check the liquid inside of it and if the liquid is too rusty, then the tank is most likely rusting from the inside. This can be a serious problem and should be dealt with as soon as possible. If you notice that the liquid in your air tank is becoming increasingly rusty, it is important to take action right away. Draining as well as inspecting the tank is necessary to determine if the rust is coming from inside or not.

Gently Tap The Tank With A Metal Tool Or Hammer:

Another way to check the air compressor tank is to gently tap the top and underside of the tank with a metal tool or hammer and if there is a difference in the noise level, then there is most likely rust or dust present in the air tank.

Let A Professional Take A Look At It:

Before you replace the tank, it’s important to have a professional take a look at it and they will be able to tell you if the tank is truly damaged or if there is something else going on with the compressor.

Replacing an air compressor tank can be costly, so you want to make sure it’s absolutely necessary and the professional will also be able to give you advice on what type of tank to get and how to properly install it. Don’t take chances with your air compressor let a professional handle the inspection and replacement of your air compressor tank.

Conclusion:

Air compressor tanks do expire and the lifespan of a tank depends on how well it is maintained. If you take proper care of your air compressor tank, then it can last for years; however, if you neglect it, the tank will rust or may develop other issues and eventually fail.

So try to inspect your air compressor tank as well as drain the water from the tank to prevent rust and you should also contact an expert or manufacturer to know more about your air compressor tank. If you found this article helpful then kindly share it with others and have a great day.

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