Electric arc

[CaribSeanMd]

I was reading the article on calcium reactors and noticed the caution regarding placing a CO2 tank in an area where it could come into contact with an electric arc. I'm not certain what conditions could cause such an occurrence. Can anyone offer some further guidance?

CaribSeanMd

 

[jdieck]

I was reading the article on calcium reactors and noticed the caution regarding placing a CO2 tank in an area where it could come into contact with an electric arc. I'm not certain what conditions could cause such an occurrence. Can anyone offer some further guidance?

CaribSeanMd

Sean:

High pressure gas cylinders have special metallurgical tratment that will be damaged is heated. An electrical arc on the surface of a cylinder can create a very high localized heat and even a pin point melt point were a crack can initiate thus rendering the cylinder unusable and unsafe to use. Qualified gas fillers and manufacturers are very adamant with their inspection procedures and one of the steps involves the inspection for arc burns before a cylinder is filled.
Arc burns are more common with cylinders used in a welding environment. In an aquarium environment, arc burns are unlikely but possible if wiring is resting agains the cylinder and the wire short circuit and the insulation melts so just keep all electrical wiring away from the cylinder.

hope this information helps.

Jose