CO2 Cylinder Tank

CO2 tanks come in a range of CO2 cylinder sizes and volumes; from a basic 5lb co2 tank all the way up to a large 50lb co2 tanks. They are designed to contain CO2, a colorless but not odorless gas, consisting of one part carbon and two parts oxygen. At ordinary temperatures, carbon dioxide is relatively unreactive; above 1,700 °C (3,100 °F), it partially decomposes into carbon monoxide and oxygen. Unlike most standard gases, the content of a CO2 cylinder is in a liquid form because, just like propane, it is liquefied under pressure. These tanks should always be stored or used in the upright position.

• CO2 cylinder pressure is approx. 860 psi.

This is most commonly a siphon design, whereas there is a long straw / tube going down the center to allow the liquid to enter and move up and out. This siphon dip tube is what draws the liquid CO2 supply from the cylinder.

As compared to other types of tanks, specifically, for example, a propane tank: CO2 cylinders have much thicker walls than propane cylinders. Propane cylinders are 250 p.s.i. max pressure, CO2 cylinders are normally 1800 p.s.i. At 100 degrees F. propane exerts about 170 p.s.i., while CO2 exerts about 1400 p.s.i. Even at room temperature a full CO2 cylinders runs about 850 p.s.i.

Unlike propane storage tanks, the CO2 tank lacks safety mechanisms for dealing with flammable gas and excess pressure buildup. CO2 cylinders are typically designed and manufactured to withstand the pressure and properties of carbon dioxide and composed of material that is non-reactive with CO2. Again, as an example, Propane could potentially react with the materials used in the construction of the CO2 cylinder, leading to corrosion, degradation, or even rupture of the cylinder.

Some people have devised ways of using an air compressor to refill a CO2 tank. A typical air compressor won't reach much above 120-150 psi which they believe is well within tolerances. This strategy might be so that an individual can store and use compressed air away from a stationary installed compressor, such as filling a flat tire on a large automobile somewhere remote. Compressed air remains air, a gas, and the CO2 tank is designed to store liquid, not gas. This practice is dangerous and could lead to a tank rupture and injury to the operator.