Are you ready for some thrilling paintball action? Before you hit the field, make sure your paintball gun is safe and ready to go. One important aspect of paintball gun safety is ensuring that your tank is in good condition and up to DOT standards.
This is where hydro testing comes in. If you want to ensure that your paintball tank is safe and in compliance with DOT regulations, read on to learn everything you need to know about hydro testing paintball tanks.
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Hydro Testing Explained
A hydrostatic test, which is also known as a hydro test, is a procedure used to check for any leaks or defects in tanks, vessels, or pipelines. Although it is not necessary to perform this test immediately after purchasing a paintball gun, it may be required within the next few years.
During the hydro test, the tank is filled with liquid, which is always slightly more than its capacity. This is because tanks, vessels, and pipelines are designed to handle a certain pressure level, and the excess liquid provides an additional buffer for added protection. The liquid used in the test is typically colored or dyed to make it easier to detect leaks, and the source of any leaks can be easily identified.
Hyrdo Testing Process
First Inspection
Before undergoing a pressure test, a hydro tester will inspect a paintball tank for any damages to the tank or threading. The use of a regulator is not necessary for this particular test as it is only meant to check for any pressure that may escape from the tank. If the threading is found to be damaged, the hydro test cannot proceed and the tank will fail inspection, requiring the purchase of a new one. However, if the threading is intact, the tank can still undergo a hydro test.
Inspecting the Tank
Similar to the threading, the paintball tank will undergo an inspection to ensure its safety. The hydro tester will examine the exterior of the tank for any indications of harm, which may range from dents to corrosion. If there is evidence of corrosion or a dent, the hydro tester will advise against proceeding with the pressure test. It is highly unlikely for a damaged tank to pass a hydro test, and it is not recommended to use a damaged tank for this purpose. As you will discover later on, it is not
Adding Pressure
To reiterate, the paintball tank will be filled with a colored liquid and then placed in a pressurized vessel by the hydro tester. The pressurized vessel, which is also filled with water, serves as an additional safety measure in case the tank blows.
Placing the tank in a high-pressure area ensures that no one gets hurt if it explodes. The tank is closely monitored for any signs of expansion or breakage during the test. If it does expand, it is not necessarily a bad thing as long as it is not a significant change in shape. Passing the hydro test is still possible, even if there is some expansion.
Importance of Hydro Tests
Not only is it required by law, but it is also a considerable safety factor. Don’t risk your safety or the safety of others by using paintball tanks that haven’t been tested. The danger of an explosion during gameplay is not worth it. You don’t want to be responsible for causing harm to yourself or your opponent. Just imagine the damage that could be done if a paintball tank were to explode and hit someone.
Make sure always to check if your paintball tank requires hydro testing before playing. This simple step can ensure a hassle-free and safe game. Don’t take any chances with your safety or the safety of others. Play it safe and avoid any potential explosions during your paintball game.
Different Tank Requirements
Got a Co2 cylinder? You should toss it and get a new one every five years. But if you have an aluminum tank, it could last you up to 20-24 years. If your cylinder is about two inches in diameter or two feet long, it might fall under the “2×2 rule,” which means you might not need to worry about hydro-exempt and re-hydro testing. Do some research on your specific model to be sure.
Most cylinders have a lifespan of 15 years from their original date, but double-check to make sure yours meets modern standards. Some tanks don’t have an expiration date printed on them, which can be confusing. In that case, look for your DOT information, which is like a serial number or model number. The laws and permits you need will depend on this information, which is constantly changing.
Final Thoughts on Hydro Testing Paintball Tanks
In conclusion, hydro testing paintball tanks is an essential step towards ensuring a safe and enjoyable paintball experience. The procedure entails putting the tanks through high-pressure tests to see if there are any flaws that could endanger the players.
If it’s been more than three to five years, then it’s time to bring it in for testing. Don’t risk it; your life is not worth a few extra rounds of paintball.
Overall, maintaining your equipment is a critical aspect of being a responsible paintball player. Hydro testing paintball tanks is just one part of that responsibility, but it can make a world of difference. So take care of your gear and enjoy your adventures on the field with confidence!
Hydro Testing Paintball Tanks FAQ
How long does hydro testing take?
Depending on the facility you use or if you do it yourself, you should expect at least 7-10 days. The whole process itself only takes a few hours.
How often should I hydro test my paintball gun?
If you want to stay in accordance with the law, every 3 to 5 years is recommended. You should also think about whether you are a weekly player, a monthly player, a yearly player, or a daily player. This makes a huge difference.
How do I know when my paintball CO2 tank is expired?
To obtain important details about the CO2 cylinder, one should examine the third row on the crown. This row contains the manufacturing date, also referred to as the “Born On” date, which is presented in a numerical format of mm/yy. It is mandatory to hydro test paintball tanks and the cylinder every five years following this date. Additionally, the row displays the total liquid CO2 capacity of the tank.
What if my tank is a few years overdue?
Keep that tank! Even if it’s “out of hydro,” don’t throw it away just yet. Take it to get tested and put it back into rotation. Keep in mind that fiber-wrapped tanks have a lifespan of 15 years, while steel tanks (3ht) can last up to 24 years. As for aluminum tanks (3AL), you can keep using them as long as they pass the hydro and visual tests. Remember, every tank counts when it comes to sustainability, so hold onto them and make them last!
