CF Air Venturi Tank Question

[Ezana4CE]

I have a couple of Air Venturi branded carbon-fiber SCBA tanks that have some very clear differences. They are sold as “Wingman” tanks. Both appear to be the same size carbon-fiber wrapped tanks, but they have differences. One is almost completely smooth to the touch if you rub or rub your fingers across the tank. The other is wavy and bumpy when you run your fingers across the tank. Particularly around the bottom and the label. The labels are different. There is a year difference between the date of manufacture. I have also noticed that one tank (the bumpy one) sits slightly taller than the other and the taller tank also has a neck (of the tank where the valve screws in) that is slightly wider than the valve.

I have my suspicions about one of these tanks. I would like to read how members who own these SCBA tanks describe their Air Venturi carbon-fiber SCBA tanks. If you rub your hand(s) across and around the surface of your tank does the finish feel smooth or bumpy? What is the year of manufacture? What does the label say? Did you buy yours new, used (from an online Airgun shop), new old stock, reconditioned, used from an individual, used from an auction site, etc.

Edit: Upon closer inspection one tank appears to be a 60 minute SCBA tank the other is a 45 min tank. I’m still curious about the experiences of others.

 

[Gerry52]

Dave, never dealt with Air Venturi but even dedicated firefighting SCBA tanks are the same way & I've dealt with MANY of those. AV probably outsources the manufacturing of their tanks with more than one manufacturer.

 

[Ezana4CE]

Dave, never dealt with Air Venturi but even dedicated firefighting SCBA tanks are the same way & I've dealt with MANY of those. AV probably outsources the manufacturing of their tanks with more than one manufacturer.

@Gerry52 To be clear, they are the same way in what regard?

I was wondering about who produces their SCBA tanks for them. I’d like that information as well.

 

[Gerry52]

Some finishes (resin) are smooth, some aren't quite as "refined". It's never caused any safety or quality concerns for me.

 

[Ezana4CE]

So with help from @Gerry52 I realized that my tanks are made in two different places and probably be different manufacturers. Also, they are two different sized tanks. I couldn't see it until I looked at a photo of them side by side. One is a 45 min tank, the other a 60 min tank. The folks I bought the 60 min tank from didn't seem to realize that's what it was. I asked and that's not the answer I got. So thank you Gerry.

However, I am still curious to read about the appearance and feel of Air Venturi carbon fiber SCBA tanks that other members have acquired. So my initial questions still stand.

 

[nortac]

My AV 98 cf (60 min.) tank is made by Draeger and is smooth with tape wrapped over the labels. I believe I bought it in 2018.

 

[Ezana4CE]

My AV 98 cf (60 min.) tank is made by Draeger and is smooth with tape wrapped over the labels. I believe I bought it in 2018.

@nortac Thanks. It looks like they have sourced them from different manufacturers over the years. I see that your profile says you're from Abita Springs. Some good beer comes from down there. Welcome to the forums.

 

[kayaker]

I have a AV. 74 cu. ft. wingman manufactured in 2021 bought from a vendor ( new old stock ). As far as the label it's hard to read as I have webbing over it. The tank is smooth as glass and the same as my great white tank. The valve sucks, hard to open and close btw. I know its not a 60 or 45 but thought I'd throw it out there. Maybe ask a vendor that sells them. Edit: Further inspection tank is made in (KOREA)