I think it's an awesome idea! The "round tank" theory may be correct but if it were the welded ends of the round tank would pull apart as well. I think you'll be fine. Keep us posted on how well it pans out.

 

That's why air tank ends are domed the arc of the structure speads out the load evenly. It's not the welds that would fail if you are a competent welder it would be the metal it self failing. And the pressure that tank could manage would NOT "explode" like a pipe bomb like most would think. The metal or a line fitting would fail long before those pressure could be reached. I personally think it's a good idea in theory but would need to be executed proberly. Like another posted said air tanks are put in harms way all the time in the bagged truck and car world, as far as an vehicle accident is concerned. So that would be the least of my worries if running such a set up.

 

When have you ever seen a bumper that wasnt hollow?

I do agree that It could cause some issues if you hit somethin on the trails. And If you have it pressurized and get rearended on the road you could run into legal issues.

 

I know a guy that had tube bumpers with basically same setup.held enough to air up a couple tires no problem. All bumpers are hollow less you fill em with concrete. I've seen tune bumpers with caps & storage inside also.

 

I just built one last fall. I cant post pics now cause im at work. But I have a metal air stem on the top so I can fill the tank up at any gas station. And I have a water drain plug, It is on the bottom. And my bumper is also square, so far no problems..

 

Hell yeah. You could add a compressor in the cargo area & run it to your bumper also.

 

My onbly issue with this is air tanks are weleded by compotent welders(not saying you are not), and are designed for it. Will it work.. sure it will. Will it be safe.. I dont know.

I am relocating my radiator to the back of my jeep, but I will be using DOM tubing which is substantially stronger then welded seem tube. Raditor systems are desinged for 12-16 psi.. not 90 psi air

 

Test: Fill a cheap air tank from Harbor freight with as much air as you can get in it. Set it in a secluded area: ie where no one else is within five (5) miles. Get back what you feel is a safe distance and fire your high powered hunting rifle at it. You will be surprised at what little happens.