Composite propane tanks

[rmeador]

I'm replacing my propane regulator assembly due to a leak, and I'm wondering if maybe I should go all out and replace my propane tank too. It's fairly old and showing some rust. Do you think these newfangled composite tanks are any good, or should I stick with metal? I like the idea of them being rust proof, but something about them makes me think they might not be safe as they age for other reasons that wouldn't be evident, like fatigue. What do you think?

[PaulfromNWOnt]

People have been using them on campers for a number of years now. I would imagine that on your boat they'd at least be out of the sunlight which would be the most damaging thing. I can't see any real problem otherwise.

[PaulfromNWOnt]

Scamp Camp/Fiberglass Propane Tanks - Fiberglass RV

That's a link to one discussion on a Fiberglass RV forum. Plenty of good info on many topics over there.

[mitiempo]

I have a couple of the composite 10 lb tanks and like them. As light as aluminum but a lot less expensive.

What could cause them to fatigue? Same basic construction as your boat.

[Faster]

We've had one now for a couple of seasons... love it, esp when it's time to carry it up a hill somewhere for a refill.... another benefit is being able to see the level in the tank.

[shogan50]

Fatigue will not be an issue. Fatigue failure comes after cyclical loading in the 10's to 100's of thousands of cycles and generally, composites are better at fatigue than aluminum. They also have the benefit of a built in sight gauge.

[rmeador]

Ok, I'm convinced I just put in an order for one. Thanks for your input.

[welshwind]

Good choice... we've had two for two years (one connected to galley; one dedicated to Magma grill as we grill alot!) and love them. No more guessing when to have them refilled. And easier to carry.

[djodenda]

I replaced my old rusty tanks with composite ones this summer. I like them for the same reasons as everybody else here.

[meuritt]

I have had these for two years myself. First tank I bought had the safety assembly inside jam, they replaced that and I bought one additional one. Both of those are doing great. I bought mine from lite cylinder company.