The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·02108·Announced 2002-02-26

Ingersoll-Rand Recalls Portable Air Compressors Due to Tank Rupture Risk

Ingersoll-Rand is recalling about 458,000 portable air compressors sold between 1983 and 1991 because internal corrosion can cause the tank to rupture, posing a risk of injury.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (tank rupture) where injury has not yet been reported, which aligns with the 'High' severity criteria in the rubric.

Plain-English summary

Ingersoll-Rand Company is recalling approximately 458,000 portable air compressors sold nationwide between 1983 and 1991. The affected units feature single-phase electric motors up to 3hp or gasoline engines up to 8hp, with tank sizes up to 30 gallons. These 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 were sold at hardware and construction supply stores for between $150 and $400.

The recall is due to a hazard where internal corrosion to the inner wall of the air receiver tank can cause the tank to unexpectedly rupture. This rupture allows pressurized air to suddenly and forcefully escape, posing a risk of injury to consumers. Ingersoll-Rand has received 11 reports of sudden tank failure in these units, but no injuries have been reported. The company is voluntarily undertaking this action to take the products out of service due to their age and the unpredictable nature of tank life based on operating and maintenance conditions.

Consumers should stop using the air compressors immediately and contact Ingersoll-Rand for instructions on returning the compressor, freight paid. Consumers will have the option of receiving a check for $100.00 or a $200.00 credit towards the purchase of a new DD2T2 air compressor. Model and serial numbers are located on a plate or sticker attached to the outside housing, or on an internal floor baffle for some oil-less models. Serial numbers begin with the prefix "C" or "DC", and model numbers begin with specific prefixes listed in the official recall notice.

The recalled product

Product
Portable Air Compressor
Manufacturer
Ingersoll-Rand Company, of Woodcliff Lake, N.J.
Category
Consumer Product — Power Tools / Equipment
Hazard
Affected units
458,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same hazard · tank rupture

See all →