Stove Alcohol Tank w/Electric Compressor: Safe??

[Mark Magee]

I am considering using a small 12V car-tire compressor to compress my alcohol tank for my stove. Any explosion hazard here? Anyone safely or otherwise compressing thier alcohol tank similarly?I will install 1, maybe 2 check valves after the Schrader valve toward the tank.Feedback appreciated

 

[Bob Camarena]

Is this really necessary?

The pressure required is relatively low. As I recall, mine worked best at around 10 lbs. I can see the convenience of pushing a button, but the risk of over-pressurization seems to outweigh the convenience. Most automotive compressors just aren't that accurate or sensitive at low pressures. I'd be more concerned about this than explosion risk which is probably minimal.

 

[Mark Magee]

Response to Bob

Bob,It's true it could seem a little silly, yet I have a problem this configuration might solve. My Seaward tank corroded through and the only replacement is made by Force10 and configured differently, it will have to fit in the lazarette -upright- instead of laying on it's side as the Seaward tank did. With an electric compressor I can tuck the tank further under the lid of the lazarette and pump it up much easier without having to directly access it.Also, Interdynamics offers two relatively cheap 12V compressors that have an autostop switch that will stop at any pressure you dial in. I called the mfgr and they certify the electro-mechanical switch to be accurate for +/- 2 psi. So I can set it for 15 PSI, turn it on, it stops around 15 PSI, turn it off and then cook. As pressure falls I will just turn it back on.We'll see how it turns out: I'm striving to keep this as simple as possible.

 

[Bob Camarena]

Sounds like a plan.

Sounds like you've planned it out pretty well, go for it and let us know how it works out.