Using a tank out of Viz

[eweingarden]

I was going to borrow an AL 80 from a friend which is full with air. He just noticed that the last viz was 9/14. Is there a reason not to use for one dive and then take it in for a viz, or, should it have a viz before using? Thanks.

 

[tbone1004]

no reason not to use it, especially if it aluminum. I would analyze it before diving, especially if going somewhat deep since it is old fill, but wouldn't vip before diving it. Remember that VIP is an industry thing, not a legal thing like hydro, so the only reason I would hesitate with this is because the fill is at least a year old which makes some people jittery. Quick analysis for O2/CO and if it looks normal then I would have no problem diving it.

 

[pconsidine]

I agree with tbone1004 comment- also smell the air from tank, usually you can smell bad air. I am a Visual Tank inspector and I agree this is a Industry safety issue- 2c check hydro date- if older than 5 years do not use tank and suggest vis. tank right after use.

 

[eweingarden]

Thanks for the feedback

 

[redacted]

I ran into one op that would not allow such a tank on their boat.

 

[Kharon]

I am a Visual Tank inspector and I agree this is a Industry safety issue- 2c check hydro date- if older than 5 years do not use tank and suggest vis. tank right after use.

I'd like to know why (besides revenue stream for the inspection station) that a tank out of hydro that is full can't be used. My understanding is that the danger is during filling. I've been told that, once properly filled and cooled a tank can be stored indefinitely if not subjected to severe conditions. Have I been fed a line?

 

[tbone1004]

legally out of hydro tanks can't be transported over state lines IIRC but that is for charged cylinders being transported commercially, but it's also the right of the dive operator to reject any equipment they want for any reason.

Do not store aluminum tanks full, that's bad, mfg's specifically say not to for a real good reason. Steel tanks can be stored full indefinitely, but if there is moisture in there or any contaminants present it can make a non-breathable gas, or a bomb if it starts rusting. I.e. rust starts eating through, you don't know it, and you hit the tank the wrong way and it goes off. That's bad. Has it happened? Probably not, but I wouldn't make a habit of taking that risk....

 

[pconsidine]

I agree with tbone1004 it is a D.O.T. regulation not to use a tank out of hydro and no dive shop will fill a tank out of hydro, and if a dive boat op. sees thank out of hydro they will not let you dive. Myself as a instructor if a student has a out of date tank I will loan one no charge to student.

 

[redacted]

[

legally out of hydro tanks can't be transported over state lines,

Specfic reference please.

 

[pconsidine]

Scuba Diver Info - Scuba cylinders