What causes a scuba cylinder to burst?

Scuba cylinder bursts can be deadly. They happen when metal fails under extreme pressure. Understanding the causes can save your life and protect your investment.

Scuba cylinders burst due to metal fatigue, corrosion, overpressure, or manufacturing defects. The most common cause is hydrostatic test failure after years of use. Regular inspection and proper maintenance prevent 95% of cylinder failures.

I've seen too many divers ignore cylinder safety. Last year, a tank burst at our local dive shop during filling. Nobody got hurt, but it could have been different. The sound was like a gunshot. The tank had passed visual inspection just months before.

What is the 120 rule in scuba diving?

The 120 rule sounds complex. Many new divers get confused about pressure limits. This rule can prevent serious accidents during your dives.

The 120 rule states that the sum of your depth in feet plus your remaining air pressure percentage should not exceed 120. This ensures you have enough air to safely ascend and complete decompression stops.

Understanding the 120 Rule in Practice

The 120 rule works as a safety buffer. At 80 feet deep with 40% air remaining, you get 80 + 40 = 120. This means you're at your limit. You need to start ascending immediately.

Most experienced divers modify this rule based on conditions. In cold water, I use 110 instead of 120. Strong currents also require more conservative numbers. Your air consumption rate matters too.

The rule assumes normal ascent rates. If you're diving in overhead environments like wrecks or caves, you need different calculations. Always plan your dive and dive your plan.

How long do dive cylinders last?

Cylinder lifespan worries every diver. You invest hundreds of dollars in tanks. You want them to last decades without compromising safety.

Steel scuba cylinders typically last 20-30 years with proper care, while aluminum cylinders can last 15-20 years. Lifespan depends on usage frequency, storage conditions, and maintenance quality.

Factors That Determine Cylinder Lifespan

Usage frequency affects cylinder life more than age. A tank used weekly wears faster than one used monthly. Each fill cycle creates stress on the metal. Heat from rapid filling also damages the cylinder walls.

Storage conditions make a huge difference. I store my tanks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Moisture inside tanks causes internal corrosion. Salt water exposure accelerates external corrosion.

Regular maintenance extends cylinder life significantly. Visual inspections every year catch problems early. Hydrostatic testing every five years ensures structural integrity. Proper valve maintenance prevents contamination.

Manufacturing quality varies between brands. At Cylindify, we use premium materials and strict quality control. Our customers report cylinders lasting beyond average lifespans with proper care.

Should scuba tanks be stored full or empty?

Tank storage creates confusion among divers. Some say store them full. Others recommend empty storage. The wrong choice can damage your expensive equipment.

Store scuba tanks with 200-300 PSI of air to prevent moisture entry and valve contamination. Never store completely empty tanks as this allows humid air to enter and cause internal corrosion.

Proper Tank Storage Techniques

Storing tanks completely full creates unnecessary stress on the metal. High pressure over months can cause micro-cracks. Temperature changes also affect pressure readings when tanks are full.

Empty storage causes bigger problems. Humid air enters through valves when pressure drops to zero. This moisture condenses inside the tank. Internal corrosion starts immediately and spreads fast.

The 200-300 PSI storage pressure prevents moisture entry. It's enough pressure to keep valves sealed. This pressure won't stress the cylinder walls during storage. I've used this method for fifteen years without problems.

Temperature affects storage pressure. Store tanks where temperatures stay stable. Avoid garages that get very hot or cold. Basements often provide ideal storage conditions.

Will fire departments fill scuba tanks?

Getting tanks filled can be challenging. Dive shops aren't always convenient. Fire departments have compressors and trained staff. Many divers wonder about this option.

Most fire departments will not fill recreational scuba tanks due to liability concerns and different air quality standards. Fire department air systems use different filtration designed for firefighting equipment, not diving safety.

Alternative Tank Filling Options

Fire department compressors produce breathable air. But their filtration systems target different contaminants. Carbon monoxide levels acceptable for firefighting can be dangerous underwater. Oil contamination standards also differ.

Some volunteer fire departments make exceptions. They might fill tanks for local divers who help with water rescues. Always call ahead and ask about their policy. Never assume they'll provide this service.

Your best options remain dive shops and paintball facilities. Many paintball shops have high-pressure compressors. Their air quality often meets diving standards. Some shops specialize in both paintball and scuba services.

I recommend building relationships with local dive shops. They understand diving air requirements. They test air quality regularly. Their staff knows proper filling procedures for different cylinder types.

Conclusion

Scuba cylinder safety depends on understanding pressure limits, proper storage, regular maintenance, and using qualified filling stations.