AEROCON supplies many types of new and used. tanks. Here are
guidelines for use. All used tanks or tanks to be used for other than their
original intended purpose muse be cleaned and hydrotested before use. Aerocon
will not accept liability for any damages arising to persons or property
from purchasers use as we have no control over this.
Inspection:
Tanks should be checked inside and out for rust or corrosion. Secondly,
for extreme nicks, chips, dents or other imperfections which could affect
function. DOT rated tanks can withstand severe handling without derating.
If dented, drilled or severely chipped or gouged they must not be used.
All threads must be complete and in good shape.
Cleaning:
All used tanks should be cleaned. If to be used for fuels, the cleaning
is not so critical, but must include the removal of any loose particles
on the tank interior to prevent liens, filters and injectors from being
clogged. Any industrial solvent can be used for cleaning fuel tanks. It
should be removed by drying (sun exposure is good) for a couple of days.
For oxidizers, the classic cleaning is a three step operation: First
by trichloroethylene, followed by a wash with a high concentration of TSP
solution (tri-sodium phosphate), followed by a distilled water rinse and
drying. Now since trike is banned for such use, many people are using a
hot soapy rinse using Dawn Liquid Detergent followed by a thorough rinse
and drying.
Seals:
All seals must be appropriate for the materials to be used in the tanks.
Silicone seals will work for almost all fuel type materials and for some
oxidizers. Viton is recommended for Nitrous Oxide and eve for LOX stationary
seals. Any moving seal in LOX must be Teflon or metal (like a "V" seal
ring). Change out all seals in oxidizer valves or regulators for oxidizer
proof ones or you will DEFINITELY have a disaster.
Gauges:
Must not be oil filled for oxidizers or have oil contaminant inside
the lines or bourdon tube.
Lines:
Again, lines must be compatible. Copper and aluminum and stainless
steel will work with nearly all materials (no copper with H2O2!). Make
sure the line and fittings are rates for the pressure you are using. Restrain
the fittings so the ends will not whip around if they become disconnected
or if pressurized while not connected (bad practice). A high pressure gas
can drive an unconnected hose or tubing assembly at high velocity, enough
to injure or kill.
High Pressure Gas Tanks:
Should be hydrotested to at least twice your anticipated pressure by
a certified hydrotester. The danger from ruptured high pressure tanks is
so high that you must exert extreme caution and discretion in procuring,
conditioning, testing, filling and using these tanks. In using a high pressure
tank, it must always incorporate a pressure relief diaphragm or bust disc
in the valve assembly so it will vent before bursting (for instance while
sitting in the hot desert sun!)
Using Corrosive or Toxic Materials:
This subject will require extreme study of the literature with regard
to both safety and legality of use. Suffice it to say that a minimum requirement
will include safety suits (possibly with respirators), decontamination
equipment and chemicals, spill containment with proper equipment, procedures
and personnel, and a disposal plan for unused materials. The best advice
is to stay with "safe and sane" propellants of low or no toxicity or corrosiveness.
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