[AndreaV]

Having the failure point be at the push in fittings instead of at the sealed thread should overcome the explosiveness of the plastic tanks. I am not sure but the 125psi rating is likely given to the push in connector, and not the body of the tank itself.

Just like fuses are meant to to open an electrical circuit when current flow exceeds a predetermined range, this fail safe connection should the weakest link in the pneumatic system. This should make for a much safer alternative to the white pvc tanks.

It will be interesting to see how the black polypropylene tank's safety record will fare in comparison to the diy fitting pvc tanks. Any air tank with a crack will explode sooner or later, In my opinion any sort of plastic air tank with sharp interior corners (threads) should be banned from use in FIRST. All of the boom'ed air tanks are to my knowledge were a result of user error. Whether it be over tightened fittings or hose claps, these pressure vessels demand respect.

This might sound harsh but when you actually witness one go, I bet you would have a change of heart. Keep in mind this is an event geared towards children.

FIRST should step it up and add the mounting and placement of all air tanks to the robot inspector check list. I have inspected at two events so far, and am amazed at how many inspectors just ask the questions in a manner that all a team has to say is "yes" or "no". I understand that there are a lot of robots to inspect, but the job of the robot inspector is to ensure that the robot is legal and above all safe to compete.

This is a problem that Teachers, Mentors, and Officials have to look at more closely. You can't expect a bunch of high school kids to be the responsible ones here.