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Protecting my compressed air tank

showcrop

showcrop

Well-known Member
The portable air compressor thread reminded me of a thought that I have had for awhile. I bought a used large compressor a few years ago. During installation before threading my shut-off valve into the tank, I gave it a good shot of WD-40 inside. My thought is that if done say, annually, the WD-40, even though I drain the moisture off the bottom of the tank regularly, should make a substantial difference in how long the tank will last. I don't want to compromise my air quality doing this though. Would a little WD-40 affect my air for painting? I drain the moisture out of the tank regularly and I have a filter and two water separators in line. I drain my tank often enough that I rarely get more than a few drops of water.
 
Oil is less dense than water. Put all the oil you want inside
the tank and water will still be in contact with the metal on
the bottom of the tank, oil floats.
 
My older oil lubricated compressors seem to pass enough oil into the tank that theres a skim over everything inside. I'm quite sure that would get into the lines too.
 
One of the problem with putting any oil in a compressor tank is if you spray paint. Your air could then be contaminated with the oil and cause problems with the paint. Then WD-40 is hard on O rings in pneumatic tools so you would have the potential of damaging tools.
 
I have been without a compressor for a while and bought a new one. I took the moisture & oil filter-
regulator off old compressor and put it on new one.I have never had anything get past this system. With
going out and checking I think it is made by Speed Air. My old compressor tank lasted 30 years but rusted
out on bottom. The drain on new compressor is on bottom of tank instead end of tank. I would think your
filters should catch it.
 
I don't see WD40 staying in the tank, it would quickly evaporate and go out through the lines.

As others said, it could effect paint, if used for such.

The best thing you can do to prolong the life of the tank would be to install an automatic drain, the electric solenoid type on a timer. They work well, but still need to be checked periodically.

Even a dry tank is no guarantee there will be dry air. Any moisture that escapes the tank in the form of vapor, will condense in the lines. Unless the lines are designed to drain back to the tank (even that is no guarantee) there will still be some moisture delivered with the air. That will have to be caught at the point of use.
 
If you put one of these on air compressor and take care of it oil and water will not get onto air lines.The one I have is made by Speed Air but looks like one in photo.
cvphoto9178.jpg
 
Not to steal this thread, but while conversation is going on, I want to know if my small compressor tank is safe. Unit is about 2 HP, 120 volt and is about 30 years old, Campbell Hausfeld. My fear is the tank may be getting rusty inside, and may burst one day. Is it likely to be a hazard having it in my 2-car garage? I can give more info and pics if needed. Thanks for any advice!

Dennis M. in W. Tenn.
 
Dennis, it happens, but very rarely.

Typically a rusty tank will develop pin holes as it begins to fail.

Being that old it is most likely a good, thick, well made tank. If it has been kept drained, the compressor is operating at a safe pressure, and the relief valve is in place and functional, I would not be afraid to continue using it.
 
Don't forget about the outside and top.
Dust collects on the surfaces and retains moisture.
Soon rust blisters form and eat into the metal.
These should be cleaned and repainted.
 
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