CPSC, Ingersoll-Rand Co. Announce Recall of Portable Air Compressors Sold Between 1983 and 1991
CPSC Recall1 injuries · 2002-02-26 · 02108
Hazards
Internal corrosion to the inner wall of the air receiver tank can cause the air tank to unexpectedly rupture, allowing pressurized air to suddenly and forcefully escape, posing risk of injury to consumers.
Recall
Number
02108
Date
2002-02-26
Injuries reported
1
Products
Names
Portable Air Compressor
Companies
Manufacturer(s)
Ingersoll-Rand Company, of Woodcliff Lake, N.J.
Retailer(s)
Hardware and construction supply stores nationwide sold the air compressors, from 1983 through 1991, for between $150 and $400.
Description
The recalled portable compressors have single-phase electric motors up to 3hp or gasoline engines up to 8hp with tank sizes up to 30 gallons. The compressors were marketed under various brand names, including Ajax, Charge Air Pro, Energair, Guardian Power, MacTool, Power Force, Rallye, Rand 4000, and Steel Driver. The compressors have serial numbers beginning with the prefix "C" or "DC". The model numbers begin with the following prefixes - 1B, 1D, 1E, 1I, 2B, 2D, 2E, 3B, 3D, 3E, 4B, 4E, 5E, 5G, 15E, 23HP, 75, 75E, 250E, AB, AIR, AJ, C, CAP, CB, CL, CO, CP, CR, CS, CT, EA, GC, GP, HP, HPC, IR, IRC, LTD, MT, OI, PF, RA, RL, RP, RY, SC, SDS, SE, THP, and WB. Model and serial numbers are located on a plate or sticker attached to the outside housing of the air compressor. On some oil-less models, the model and serial numbers are affixed to an internal floor baffle, beneath a removable plastic cabinet. Air compressor receiver tanks do not have an infinite life. Tank life is dependent upon several factors, some of which include operating conditions, ambient conditions, proper installations, field modifications, and the level of maintenance. The exact effect of these factors on air receiver life is difficult to predict. Due to the current age of these products, Ingersoll-Rand is voluntarily undertaking this action to take these products out of service.