How to Test a Scuba Tank
The scuba tank or air cylinder provides the primary lifeline for a diver underwater. Many divers rent scuba tanks for convenience, and before each use divers should test a tank to ensure it's in working condition to maintain their lifeline at depth. Dive operators and technicians receive training to inspect and test the interior of a tank. Recreational divers can visually check a tank and operationally test that it works with their equipment before accepting the unit. Divers who own their personal tanks should always check that it's been filled properly to avoid emergencies topside or underwater.
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Instructions
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Locate the O ring on the tank valve and visually inspect that it's present, seated correctly and does not have any cracks.
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Visually inspect the exterior of the tank for dents or cracks.
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3
Locate the crown markings near the top of the tank and check that the imprinted hydrostatic test date is less than five years ago.
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Check that the visual inspection sticker is current. Most dive operators won't fill a tank that has an outdated visual inspection sticker; however, sometimes this can be overlooked.
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Attach an oxygen analyzer if the tank contains enriched air (or nitrox). Each dive shop uses varying models of oxygen analyzer so ask how to use the analyzer if you're not familiar with the set up.
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Carefully turn on the air and read the oxygen analyzer, if checking for nitrox levels. Write down the percentage of oxygen on a piece of masking tape and affix this to your tank before turning off the air and dissembling the oxygen analyzer.
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Attach the first stage of the regulator to the tank valve.
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Position your ear near the side of the tank valve and first stage and slowly turn on the air. Listen for any hissing sounds or a loud burst of air which can indicate that the first stage isn't seated correctly or that the O ring is defective (i.e., the connection isn't tight and air is not completely passing into the regulator).
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Turn the air on completely and then turn the tank valve a quarter-turn back. Check the level of air pressure on the regulator's gauge for the starting air pressure and that the pointer (or reading) on the gauge remains constant. Note: low pressure tanks are filled to 2,400 psi; high pressure tanks should read between 3,200 and 3,500 psi; discrepancies may indicate a short fill or a hot fill by the operator. Decreasing pressure levels indicate an air leak.
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Carefully breathe from the primary regulator and the alternate air source (octo) to taste the air from the tank. The air should be tasteless and odorless. The presence of taste or odor may indicate internal corrosion or oil in the compressor.
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Turn off the air and dissemble the regulator from the tank if desired or if transporting the equipment. Write your name on a piece of masking tape and affix this to the tank if the tank is a rental unit.
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Tips & Warnings
While filling tanks in a water bath is an old practice, if you observe the dive operator using a water bath with the compressor, briefly turn on the air before attaching your regulator to blast away any water particles that may enter the first stage and tank.
Make sure your tank is visually inspected annually and hydrostatically tested every five years to maintain optimal use.
For safety reasons, do not use a tank that doesn't bear current visual or hydrostatic inspection markings.
