Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydrostatic testing? 

It is the process, mandated by the Department of Transportation, by which a cylinder is filled with water and lowered into a test jacket, also filled with water. The cylinder is pressurized to a predetermined set point.  As the cylinder expands it pushes water out of the test jacket, which is measured for total expansion.  Click here for more details

How do you determine if a cylinder passes or fails? 

Once the total expansion is measured the pressure is released. At this point, some permanent expansion remains. If this permanent expansion is within set test limits the cylinder passes.  Also, some cylinders have a REE number (rejection elastic expansion) and when the total expansion on the water is measured it cannot exceed the REE. 

Why do you use water to perform the test instead of air? 

Water has very little compressibility, where as air is extremely compressible. If the cylinder were to rupture during the test with air you would essentially have a bomb going off inside the test jacket. With water, if there were a rupture you run the risk of just getting wet. 

Do I have to take my regulator off and does it cost extra?

No, you don't have to take your regulator off but if you want to then it is alright. It does not cost any extra for us to take off the regulator, it is included in the $15.

I need my tank re-tested, but live too far to drop it off. 

Not a problem. Just ship it to us and call us to make a payment or print the credit card authorization form and put it in with the cylinder.  We will return it upon completion of testing.  Ensure the cylinder is completely vented. You can do this by loosening one of the safety relief ports.  Other payment options

What do I need to ship my tank?

Properly package the tank and include payment and waiver.  Even if you are not paying by credit card I still need the liability waiver in order to complete the testing.  If paying by check or cash include a return label.

How do I know if my tank needs to be tested?

Look on your tank and find the latest hydro date.  Typically a cylinder is due either 3 or 5 years from that date.

  Exemption                                                  Retested after                                                         Hydro good for  

DOT-E11194                                                July 1, 2001                                                                 5 years

DOT-E10915                                               May 11, 2001                                                                5 years

If the retest date is before the above dates then the cylinder with the corresponding exemption is 3 years.  Unfortunately, some tanks say right on the label to be retested every 3 years.  This could be tough to get around with anyone who would fill your tank for you.  The above exemptions are not the only ones out there, I chose them as examples.

Go to this website www.luxfer.com and click on product, paintball and then cylinder markings. It will help you find your current hydro date.

How long will you have my tank if I ship it to you?

Your paintball tank will be heading back to you in no more than 2 business days from the day I receive it.

What happens if my tank fails hydro?

If your tank fails hydro it will be rendered inoperable by the test facility.  This is required by the DOT.  Not to worry though, if you take care of your tank and have it filled at locations that properly maintain there air systems it is pretty much a non issue.  The only tanks that fail are due to abuse/neglect.

Do you test tanks with a DOT-3HT rating?

Yes, as long as it is aircraft use only.  Some tanks with the DOT-3HT rating are manufactured for the paintball industry which is wrong and shouldn't be tested by any test facility for the purpose of paintball.  

Read this response from the DOT in regards to a letter sent by a concerned hydro facility.