Any compressed air system requires an air compressor tank as an essential component. It stores the compressed air, ensuring that there’s a steady supply available when you need it. But with so many options available on the market, how do you know which one is right for your needs?
When it comes to air compressors, the most important thing is the capacity of the tank. Having a large air compressor tank means you can work longer and faster without the risk of running out of air. Besides, having a large air compressor tank allows you to carry out bigger jobs easily.
However, upgrading your air compressor tank does not come free of charge. It requires a good amount of planning and execution. We will discuss how you can upgrade your air compressor tank and the benefits of doing so.
Types Of Air Compressor Tanks
Air compressor tanks come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Common types include auxiliary storage tanks and industrial air compressor receiver tanks.
An auxiliary storage tank is used for storing air that has been compressed and enriched with a liquid such as water or oil. This type of tank is commonly found on industrial air compressors but can also be used in household applications, such as storing air for a scuba diving tank.
Industrial Air compressor receiver tanks are designed to withstand high-pressure airflow and are made from steel, fiberglass, or plastic. They are usually curved for efficient airflow and have a valve at the top for regulating air pressure. In terms of size, industrial air compressor receiver tanks come in a wide range of sizes to suit various applications.
5 Steps for Upgrading Your Air Compressor Tank
When the air compressor tank becomes full of air, it can reduce the pressure on the valve regulator. In this case, you need a tank with additional storage capacity to maintain the air pressure safely.
To do this, you can install an auxiliary storage tank to provide extra air flow and reduce the pressure on the regulator. This will also help prevent leaks and repairs. Besides, you should monitor the air pressure gauge while filling the tank to avoid overfilling it.
Air compressor sales have been steady in recent years, as they are necessary for various industrial and home uses. The compressor is a valuable tool for painting, nailing, stapling, and other industrial tasks and can be used to inflate tires and other inflatable items. Here are five easy steps for upgrading your air compressor tank:
1. Decide What You Need The Tank For
The purpose of the air compressor tank will determine its size, capacity, and features. For example, if you need it for light-duty tasks such as inflating tires or powering small tools, a smaller tank with a lower pressure rating may be sufficient.
However, if you plan to use it for heavy-duty tasks such as sanding, painting, or powering large tools, you’ll need a larger tank with a higher pressure rating and possibly a two-stage compressor.
When upgrading your air compressor tank, it is essential to consider what you will be using the tank for. For instance, an auxiliary storage tank may be perfect if you use a compressed air service like a home improvement store.
In contrast, an industrial air compressor receiver tank is designed for high-pressure applications and should only be used with a professional-grade compressor.
2. Choose The Right Size Of Tank Based On Your Needs And Requirements
When upgrading your air compressor tank, it is essential to choose the right size based on your needs and requirements. A larger tank can provide more compressed air, which can be beneficial for longer or more demanding tasks.
Once you have decided what type of air compressor tank you require, it s essential to choose the right size. Additionally, a bigger tank may result in higher initial costs and higher maintenance costs.
On the other hand, a smaller tank may require frequent refilling and may be unable to keep up with the demands of your work. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose the right size of the tank that balances your needs and budget. Industrial air compressor receiver tanks come in a wide range of sizes, from small enough for use on household air compressors up to large enough for high-pressure applications.
3. Decide On The Type Of Valve You Need
Choosing the correct valve type is one of the most critical factors when upgrading your air compressor tank. There are two main types of valves available: Schrader and Ball Valves. Schrader valves are pressure-sensitive, meaning they open at a specific pressure and can only be used with compressed air regulated by an atmospheric pressure valve.
On the other hand, Ball Valves are pressure-independent and can use any air pressure. The ball valve is one of the most common types of valves used in air compressor tanks. This type of valve consists of a spherical ball with a hole through the center that allows air to pass through when the valve is open. Ball valves are durable, easy to use, and can handle high-pressure applications.
Another popular type of valve is the butterfly valve, which is designed to control the flow of air through the tank. This type of valve is smaller and lighter than the ball valve, making it ideal for use in compact air compressor tanks. However, it is not as durable as the ball valve and may require more maintenance over time.
4. Check For Compatibility With Your Compressor
Before upgrading your tank, it is essential to ensure that the valve and fittings you have chosen are compatible with your compressor. Many tanks come fitted with Schrader and ball valves, so check which type of fittings your pump requires before purchasing. The air compressor capacity is an essential factor to consider when purchasing.
If your tank is too small, it will not be able to provide the right pressure for your tools and will require more frequent refilling. On the other hand, if the tank is too large, it may take longer to fill. Consider what type of tools you will be using and the pressure they will require when choosing the right size tank.
5. Purchase Quality Parts From A Reputable Source
When upgrading your air compressor tank, choosing quality parts from a reputable source is essential. Many air compressor tanks are made from high-quality, durable materials, but not all features are equal.
Cheap ball valves and valve assemblies can quickly give your compressor a failing grade, so investing in quality pieces that will last is essential. Be sure to look for reviews from other customers and check for warranties from the manufacturer of the part, as these can be a great indication of the quality of the product.
Benefits Of Upgrading Your Air Compressor Tank
An auxiliary storage tank can help to produce more airflow through your air compressor, reducing the pressure on the regulator while maintaining a steady air supply. You can also reduce the time your air compressor is turned on and save money and resources by installing an extra tank.
By replacing a damaged or faulty hose, you can ensure the optimum performance of your air compressor and make it more efficient. Air compressor size is an essential factor to consider when purchasing one. The size will depend on the type of jobs you are looking to do and how much power you need.
Additionally, using an auxiliary tank can help reduce the pressure on your regulator, which provides a larger volume of air for a more extended period. When upgrading your air compressor tank, it is essential to consider the type of air compressor you have and the jobs it’s used for. This will help determine the best type and size of tank for your needs.
Tips For Maintaining Your Air Compressor Tank
Any compressed air system requires an air compressor tank as an essential component. It is responsible for storing compressed air and distributing it to various tools and equipment as needed. The tank acts as a buffer, ensuring a steady supply of compressed air, even when the demand fluctuates. If you own an air compressor and want to keep it in, you can follow a few tips to ensure the tank stays clean and performs optimally.
- Always drain the compressor before using it to ensure no water is present. This will prevent internal corrosion and provide a consistent supply of air.
- Most air tools require 70-100 PSI to operate effectively. When running a new air tool, use the recommended cut-in pressure.
- Set the outlet pressure manually each time you use a different tool. This ensures that the air tool operates at the desired psi level.
- Use air tools for their intended purposes rather than exceeding the rated capacity of the device.
Turning the screw clockwise makes the motor turn on at a higher pressure, which can lead to damage or wear on the engine. Instead, turn the screw counterclockwise when operating a new air tool. This tip will help ensure your air compressor performs efficiently and safely.
How To Choose The Right Size For Your Air Compressor Tank
To choose the air hose size for your air compressor tank, consider the minimum pressure required for tools to operate and the maximum CFM of air tools. This will prevent you from decreasing the outlet pressure enough to increase the airflow, which could cause the compressor to overspeed or shut off.
As a general rule, you should select an air hose that is at least as large as the nominal hp of your air compressor. Tools will run correctly, and the hose will contain excess air, ensuring plenty of airflow. You can also increase the outlet hose size to increase airflow by increasing the cross-sectional area where air flows.
When selecting a variable-speed drive compressor, you should also consider installing a fixed-speed compressor. This will allow you to achieve a more incredible maximum cfm with the same hp but a more excellent overall cfm range. In addition, it will help ensure that your air tools are running at peak efficiency no matter what the setting.
Air Compressor Zize
Air compressor size is an essential factor to consider when purchasing one. The size will depend on the type of jobs you are looking to do and how much power you need. Generally speaking, the larger the tank, the more energy an air compressor can produce. Smaller compressors are less powerful and are suitable for smaller jobs like inflating tires.
Still, a larger air compressor with more power is necessary for more significant projects like painting or sanding. Before making a purchase, consider the size of the compressor and what type of jobs you’ll be utilizing it for.
Air Compressor Capacity
Air compressors come in a variety of sizes and capacities. Depending on the size of the job and the type of air needed, the compressor capacity will vary. Home projects or hobbyists, such as painting or inflating tires, usually use smaller compressors. Industrial applications like automotive repair, drilling, and mining operations use larger models.
We measure capacity in terms of cubic feet of air per minute (CFM). Selecting a compressor with suitable accommodation for the job is essential. Otherwise, the machine will be inefficient and unable to complete the task.
Using An Air Receiver Tank For Rotary Screw Compressors
An air receiver tank (ART) is a handy addition to a rotary screw compressor (RSC) system that increases the CFM output of tools. The tank can provide higher CFM tools with a boost of air, increasing their efficiency and making them run more smoothly.
The air pressure in the tank should never exceed the reserve pressure, as this would damage the compressor or tool. This is why variable displacement compressors offer adjustable capacity from 50% to 100% and can provide 35% energy savings.
Additionally, decreasing the hose size or coupling secondary air compressors/tanks can reduce the available airflow and improve efficiency. Regarding design, there are two main types of ARTs: load/unload and variable displacement.
Load/unload configurations are inefficient compared to varying displacement control designs because the air pump cycle is repeated multiple times per cycle and requires additional power.
Air Compressor Systems
People use air compressor systems to convert power into potential energy stored in pressurized air. Depending on their size and design, air compressor systems can be used for various applications, including powering tools, pneumatic machinery, and inflating tires. Multiple sizes and capacities of air compressor systems are available. They may be portable units or part of an extensive stationary system.
Conclusion
Air compressor tank upgrades are not just for industrial use. A simple upgrade can significantly impact performance, efficiency, and bottom-line uses. From improved airflow and reduced downtime to longer service life, upgrading your air compressor tank can give you a competitive edge in the market.
Well, this is a smart investment that can improve the efficiency and performance of your air tools. By considering factors such as size, material, and pressure rating, you can choose a tank that meets your specific needs and helps you get the job done faster and more effectively. If you want to upgrade your air compressor tank, the above information is a good start.
Frequently Asked Questions
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