Archived from the Tools In Action forum (Power Tools). This thread is read-only.
I am confused about what will happened if I Leave an Air Compressor Pressurized, is it gonna explode or the air will come out after some time, and what damages it can do to the compressor. And for how long we can keep it pressurized?
Main reason to drain air from the tank after use is to also drain the water that accumulates into the tank due to condensation, preventing corrosion.
aessu wrote:
Just now, aessu said:Main reason to drain air from the tank after use is to also drain the water that accumulates into the tank due to condensation, preventing corrosion.
And what the pressure will do to it?
My understanding is that is causes more pressures on seals. At least that is what someone told me once. I guess I have the heard mentality, which isn’t always good. I just empty it if it’s going to be sitting for more than a week. I know when you empty it, it’s good to drain the water inside to prevent rust. With all that said, I had a Husky compressor that I would leave pressurized always and I never had a problem.
An air compressor tank is designed to remain pressurized 24/7/365.
The best method for control of water condensed from air water vapor is to install an automatic tank drain purge valve, that burps air / water out from a bottom bung to a drain location.
Every air compressor already includes an unloader / check valve, that automatically purges the pressurized air between the tank and the compressor, so the compressor is free to start against atmospheric pressure, instead of struggling to start against a pressurized tank. That is the audible hiss after the compressor stops.
Good to know that they are designed for holding air all the time. Makes my life easier.
I heard drain at least once a month. Unless parts are loose or something is majorly wrong, you shouldn’t have to worry about explosion.