Stubbies are invincible????

[Bob_da_Splatman]

Is it true stubby co2 tanks don't need retested? I have noticed that most rentals have stubbys and this now makes good sense.


Stubby=Boris......

[SpecialBlend2786]

I didn?t know you had to hydro Co2 tanks. I was under the impression that only carbon fiber bottles needed to be hydro?d

[Bob_da_Splatman]

no the local co2 guy(actualy deals fire extinguishers but close enough) said they had to be tested. If its hydro testing I'm uncertin, but it is some testing every 5yrs just like n2 tanks.

[SpecialBlend2786]

hmm, learn something new everyday...

*runs off to get CO2 tanks hydro'd*

[Kevmaster]

heres how it works...

each nitro/co2 tank has a different DoT (Department of Transportation) (and for that matter, Transport Canada) code printed or engraved in it. That code determins how often it needs to be retested.

Most co2 tanks are "3AL" tanks...and have to be tested every 5 years. Some are a differnet code (forget it off the top of my head) that have an unlimited life (never need retesting). Most Alum Nitro tanks are alsothe"3AL" code. Most N2 carbon fiber tanks have a code that requires them also to have a 5 year test (again, i forget the code).

This testing is HYRDOSTATIC testing. This involves giving the tank to an authorized tester and having him do a hydro test on it. EVERY TIME you fill the tank, you should VISUALLY check the tank. If it has dings, scratches, burrs, rust or any other kind of damage, you should get it HYDROSTATICALLY tested ASAP. Your fill station operator should also do these tests.

The Hydro Testing and Visual Testing are requred by OSHA regulations regarding the use and fill of compressed air tanks.

[Skoad]

does this rule still apply? - tanks under 2" diameter need not be tested

[SpecialBlend2786]

does this rule still apply? - tanks under 2" diameter need not be tested

i'm guessing it does?

Also, is there an expiration date on one time use tanks? like PMI SpareAir or 12grams?

[Destructo6]

Found this:

Retesting not required per the note under table 1 in 49CFR part 180.205. The note reads, "Any cylinder not exceeding two (2) inches in outside diameter and less than two (2) feet in length is exempt from volumetric expansion testing."

[openboater]

16 oz steel co2 tanks are exempt from hydro testing.

DoT ruling a couple years ago.

[Bob_da_Splatman]

so I guess you guys solved that one. Thanx


hahaha....invincible!!!!

[MindJob]

CO2 tanks are so inexpensive now a days its more cost-effective to just ditch out of date ones and buy new ones. I think hydro testing is arount the $15-$20 each range. 20 oz co2 bottles go for like $18 now.

[Bob_da_Splatman]

yes but if one is unlimited then it is even more cost effective... Whooo! Power to the stubby.....

[slade]

i'm guessing it does?

Also, is there an expiration date on one time use tanks? like PMI SpareAir or 12grams?

they expire when they burst, or the psi goes down to 0 . actually i dont really know, but i would guess that there isnt an expiration date.