Aluminum Air Tanks

Aluminum air tanks used in paintball are typically manufactured from a solid piece of aluminum alloy, forming a robust pressure vessel with relatively thick walls compared to composite designs. Standard configurations include 48/3000 or 62/3000 tanks, which provide moderate shot capacity at a 3000 psi service pressure. While heavier than carbon fiber cylinders of comparable size, aluminum tanks are straightforward to produce and are generally less expensive, which contributes to their prevalence in rental fleets and among new players acquiring their first air system.

These cylinders are usually marked under specifications such as DOT 3AL or TC 3ALM, indicating the standards they are built to meet. They are subject to periodic hydrostatic testing at defined intervals to assess continued suitability for service. Test dates and relevant certification information are stamped directly into the tank body so that fields and filling stations can verify whether a cylinder remains within its required inspection window.

In regular use, aluminum tanks offer reliable performance when coupled with a regulator that maintains appropriate output pressure. Their additional mass compared to composite systems can influence marker balance and carrying weight but also contributes to a sturdy feel that many field operators value for frequent handling and long term use. Maintenance practices typically focus on the regulator, valve components, and external inspections in accordance with local safety policies.