pressure air storage tank

Types of pressure air storage tanks

The pressure air storage tank

(also called a compressed air tank or air receiver) is a steel pressure vessel that stores compressed air. According to the shape, pressure air storage tanks can be classified into vertical tanks and horizontal tanks.

• Vertical air storage receivers

  Vertical pressure air storage tanks usually have a cylindrical shape and a base. They are usually fixed to the ground by the base plate. Vertical receivers are suitable for enterprises with limited floor space. However, they require more overhead space.

• Horizontal air storage receivers

  Horizontal pressure tanks have a design like vertical tanks, but the latter is laid on the ground. Some horizontal tanks have supports like an I-beam, which is called the 4-point support design. This design provides good stability for horizontal receivers. Horizontal air storage tanks occupy more space than vertical receivers, making them easier to install.

According to the function, pressure air storage tanks can be divided into buffering tanks and throttling tanks.

• Buffering tank/ Air receiver

  An air receiver is a buffering tank used to store compressed air from a compressor. Its main function is to decouple the demand of downstream equipment for compressed air from the supply of the compressor. Accordingly, air receivers can help maintain stable working pressure for tools and machines that use compressed air, as well as suppress any fluctuations in compressed air pressure caused by changes in the compressor's output.

• Throttling tank/ Intermediate storage tank

  Throttling tanks, also known as intermediate storage tanks, are used to store compressed air temporarily. They are often used in conjunction with high-flow rate compressors or downstream equipment that requires compressed air at a higher flow rate than the compressor can provide. Throttling tanks can serve as a reservoir of compressed air, supplying it to downstream equipment when needed. Moreover, throttling tanks can help to reduce the burden on compressors by storing excess compressed air during periods of low demand. This can help to extend the life of the compressor and improve overall system efficiency.

Specification and maintenance of pressure air storage tanks

Specification

• Materials

  The common materials for pressure tanks are carbon steel and stainless steel.

• Volume

  pressure air storage tanks are usually cylindrical. The volume is equal to the height multiplied by the diameter. The common storage volumes are 0.5m3, 1m3, 2m3, 3m3, 5m3, and so on.

• Working pressure

  Working pressure is the pressure between the maximum and minimum operating pressures. The typical working pressures of the storage tank are 0.6MPa, 0.8MPa, 1.0MPa, 1.6MPa... The value is up to the design of the tank.

• Temperature

  Air tanks can function in temperature ranges from -20℃ to 70℃. Some tanks work at a low temperature of -40℃, and others work at a high temperature of 150℃.

• Connections

  Connections include inlet and outlet pipes, flanges, valves, and other accessories. The type and quantity of connections depend on storage tank usage.

Maintenance

• Regular inspection

  It includes checking whether the pressure gauge, safety valve, and other accessories function normally and leak using the sealing condition.

  Once finding problems, resolve them immediately to avoid potential safety hazards.

• Cleaning

  Users should clean the interior and exterior regularly. Do not use corrosive substances on the exterior. Using the appropriate cleaning tools and methods for the tank interior.

• Prevent rust

  Coat or galvanize the storage tank's exposed metal parts to prevent rust. Especially in humid or corrosive environments.

• Pay attention to the temperature and pressure

  Air pressure tanks should avoid overpressure and high temperatures. Follow the prescribed pressure and temperature limits in the usage manual.

• Regular maintenance of accessories

  Maintain the storage tank's accessories, such as cleaning, lubricating, adjusting, and replacing the fasteners. Ensure their function and safety.

Scenarios of pressure air storage tanks

The following industries make use of pressure air storage tanks.

• Manufacturing

  Factories and companies that create a lot of goods use pressure air storage tanks. Devices need a constant air supply. Compressors give us that air. The tanks store extra air. It is ready for use whenever needed.

• Construction

  The building industry uses compressed air for many tools. Pneumatic gear runs on compressed air. Air storage tanks provide a steady air flow for them.

• Automotive

  Car repair shops use air tanks. Mechanic presses and wrenches need compressed air. The tanks store the air. It powers the tools for fixing cars.

• Agriculture

  Farmers use air storage tanks for spraying crops. The sprayers run on compressed air. The tank stores the pressurized air. It works the sprayer for treating plants.

• Food and Beverage

  Air storage tanks also work in food factories. Tanks store compressed air. It cleans tools and machines for making food. Pressurized air helps keep work areas sanitary.

• Oil and Gas

  Storage tanks are used offshore too. Platforms extract oil and gas from the ocean floor. Tools on drilling platforms use compressed air. Storage tanks provide the air. Tools run efficiently on pressurized air from tanks.

• Pharmaceuticals

  Pressure storage tanks help drug companies make medicine. Tanks store air that powers machines. Machines mix, package, and process materials. Compressed air drives their movements. Tanks supply the necessary air.

• Logistics

  Air tanks compress air in warehouses too. Pneumatic tubes convey products between storage areas. Pressurized air moves the tubes. Storage tanks provide the compressed air. It allows pneumatic tubes to function and move goods.

• Aerospace

  The aerospace industry relies on compressed air. Large tanks secure a supply of pressurized air. Pneumatic tools use the air pressure. They assemble complex parts for airplanes and spacecraft.

Choosing an air storage tank

When choosing an air storage tank, buyers need to take multiple factors into consideration to ensure the selected tank works well with their air compressor system and meets efficiency goals at the lowest operating cost.

• Determine system requirements: Understand how air is being used in the facility, the total volume of compressed air needed, and the pressure. This helps determine the capacity and pressure rating of the tank that will be needed.
• Match compressor output: Ensure that the tank selected can work well with the air compressor. The tank should have a similar or larger capacity than the compressor's output to enable efficient air distribution and prevent short cycling of the compressor.
• Consider installation space: Evaluate the available space for installation and decide if a vertical or horizontal tank should be selected. Make sure that there is adequate space for maintenance and any required safety clearances around the tank.
• Evaluate energy efficiency: Select a tank with proper insulation to minimize heat loss and prevent pressure drops in the system. This helps keep the operating cost in check and gives a good return on investment.
• Review safety features: Ensure the tank selected has safety features like pressure relief valves and proper grounding provisions to prevent static electricity hazards. This is important to ensure the safety of personnel and facilities.
• Check compliance with regulations: Ensure that the selected tank complies with relevant industry standards and local regulations to avoid potential legal and operational risks. This is very important.

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a pressure tank and a storage tank?

A1: A pressure air storage tank is designed to withstand high pressure to store air compressed by a compressor. In contrast, a storage tank is not under pressure and can store various liquids or materials.

Q2: What is the difference between fixed dome boom and floating roof in a pressure air storage tank?

A2: A fixed dome tank with a stationary roof has a clean and constant storage volume but might need more ventilation. A big floating roof floats on the liquid surface, which decreases evaporation but needs regular maintenance of the roof and tank floor.

Q3: What is the life expectancy of pressure air storage tanks?

A3: With regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs, steel pressure air storage tanks can last for 20 years or longer.