Do I need to empty my compressor storage tank after each secession?

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

Hi guys,

I’ve recently purchased a new airbrush compressor with storage tank. I’m loving how quiet these new compressors are, its night and day from my 15 year old Badger one. I don’t airbrush everyday, maybe once a week or so. Is it important to empty my storage tank after every secession? Can I safely store air in the tank for extended periods of time or do I run the risk of rusting out the tank by doing this?

Greg

2

Oui, Monsieur

When air was compressed in the tank, there was a water condensation, and water is still here. So what is important at the end of the painting session is to empty the tank as to eject this water. Even if the tank was painted inside ( you put a quantity of rust protection paint, close the opening and shake/roll the tank to cover all areas ), it would be much safer to empty it. I don’t know if the fact of having it under pressure would damage the tank and the gauges in the long time.

P.S. If you have a “tap” under the tank, use it to empty it as water is on the bottom. I also noticed that my pressure gauge on the regulator went to zero when I released air from the airhose outlet, so I open both at the bottom and at the top of the compressor.

3

if it’s going to be sitting for a prolonged period of time (more than 2 days), it’s just as easy to open all the valves, empty it and refill it when you need it next.

-Fred

4

Most places I’ve worked w/air, the air compressors have been running 8 hrs a day, 5 days a week minimum and we usually drained them once a week. I’ve got a 25 year old air compressor I use for some shop work and airbrushing and I usually drain it once a month (i post a sticky-note to remind me of the date the next system draining is due) - never had a problem until recently but that’s a problem with the rings, they’re worn and she’s losing compression slowly so I’m looking at a new compressor.

5

Cool, thanks guys for the tips! I’ll emtpy my tank as recommended to be on the safe side. I have no idea if there is any paint on the inside of the tank. I definately want to maximize my $250 investment!

Greg

6

Thanks for the reminder. The War Room unit wasn’t bad at all but the garage unit needed to be drained! Now I remember WHY I don’t drain it often enough!

David