Posted: 1/14/2014 5:25:48 PM EDT
This happened at work today. Compressor is about 15 years old. Guy started the engine and it built to full pressure (about 130psi) and said the engine had idled down then there was a shop rattling BOOM! Force of the explosion threw debris over 50 yards away and shook the building the truck was parked next to. As you can see it also damaged the bed of the truck. Don't be complacent check your compressors! |
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Quoted:
WOW, lucky nobody lost their head.... Now for the obvious or not so obvious question...Just how does one go about checking a air tanks..?? td I don't think you could test for that type of failure.A water pressure test would show pin leaks,but damn,the whole side of that tank failed. |
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I wonder what the compressor manufacturer would say? Is that just from years of water in the tank corroding it thin? Assuming the mfg is still in business they would probably be impressed that it lasted ~15 yrs in a harsh environment like the bed of a service truck. td |
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I have seen this type catastrophic failure on compressors before, almost every time it was a truck mounted unit or one exposed to the weather. The recent cold weather probably was a contributing factor, the water in the tank probably froze and expanded in a fitting area or around the tank drain compromising the integrity of the structure. Remember to drain your tanks regularly or, better yet, install an auto drain.
Good thing he wasn't in the bed of the truck when it happened. |
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nice looking shop you got there Hehe it's alright but nothing like our north facility. This shop was built in the 60's and is way too small for our needs. Total of 8 bays 7 lift bays 1 flat bay 5 bays doing 20 day services 2 bays doing major repairs (injectors, engines, trans) 1 bay (flat) body work and minor repairs 1 service truck on the yard doing minor repairs and electrical work. 430'ish buses on this facility alone. |