It’s essentially a buffer that aids in the smooth operation of the system by regulating the air pressure and flow. This role makes it an indispensable part of any setting that requires an efficient and uninterrupted supply of compressed air.
Air receivers come in various sizes and are built according to the operational requirements of the system. Typically, they are constructed from carbon steel, galvanised steel, or stainless steel to withstand the pressure of compressed air.
However, their build quality and specifications can differ depending on their intended use and the manufacturer’s specifications. They can be either vertical or horizontal, depending on the space available for installation.
Apart from storing the compressed air and maintaining system pressure, an air receiver also has the added function of separating oil and water from the compressed air. Air receivers are designed so that the air cools down as it enters the tank, allowing moisture and oil droplets to condense and separate out from the air.
This ensures that the air released is relatively clean and free from moisture, oil, and other contaminants.
Why use an air receiver TANK?
An air receiver, commonly known as an air tank, is an essential component in any compressed air system. Its primary function is to serve as temporary storage to accommodate the peaks of demand from your system and to optimise the running efficiency of your compression equipment. Utilising an air tank or receiver is beneficial in several ways, which we will explore in this section.
Firstly, an air receiver acts as a buffer and storage medium between the compressor and the consumption system. This ensures a steady supply of air during peak demands, preventing the rapid cycling of the compressor. Without an air receiver, the compressor would need to switch on and off frequently, resulting in a significant amount of energy waste and potentially shortening the lifespan of the compressor due to the strain caused by on-off cycles.
Secondly, air receivers help to reduce moisture and pulsations in the compressed air system. The tank allows the air to cool, which in turn reduces the moisture level. This is incredibly important in applications where moisture in the compressed air could lead to operational issues or damage the end-use equipment.
Moreover, air receivers play an integral part in helping to maintain the correct pressure in the system, irrespective of fluctuations in the compressor’s output. They ensure that the required pressure is available when the demand is higher than the compressor’s capacity. This is especially critical in larger industrial applications where a drop in pressure can significantly impact productivity and operational efficiency.
The use of an air receiver also increases the efficiency of the dryer system. When the compressed air enters the air receiver tank, it cools down, allowing the water vapour to condense and be separated before it reaches the dryer. This means the air dryer has to deal with less moisture and can, therefore, operate much more efficiently.
Lastly, the air receiver aids in trapping and holding any particulates and impurities that may be present in the compressed air, preventing them from entering and potentially damaging the system. This filtering role helps to mitigate maintenance costs and prolong the life of the compressed air system.
In conclusion, the use of an air receiver in a compressed air system encompasses a wide range of benefits, from energy efficiency to operational stability and equipment longevity. They act as a buffer, stabilise the system pressure, reduce moisture content, increase dryer efficiency, and act as a trap for impurities – all crucial factors to ensure optimal operation and long-term sustainability of your compressed air system.
FAQs
An air receiver, also known as an air tank, is a storage vessel used to store compressed air. It is an important part of any compressed air system. The air receiver balances the pressure fluctuations in the system, ensuring that air tools and other pneumatic equipment operate efficiently and safely.
When a compressor compresses air, the air is stored in the air receiver. The stored compressed air can then be used to supply air at the necessary pressure to meet the compressed air needs of various applications.
Having an air receiver provides several benefits. It allows for temporary storage of compressed air, which is useful for short-term peak air demands. It also helps in maintaining a consistent flow of compressed air and allows the air compressor to operate more efficiently.
No, an air receiver tank is part of an air compressor system and cannot function independently. It is a storage vessel for compressed air and relies on the compressor to fill it with compressed air.
No, air receivers do not generate pressure. They serve as storage units for compressed air. The actual generation of compressed air occurs in the compressor. Air receiver tanks store this compressed air and help to maintain stable pressure levels by releasing air when the demand is high and storing it when demand is low. In compliance with the Australian standard, these tanks should be carefully designed and maintained to ensure they safely manage the pressure levels they are subjected to.
An air receiver is not the same as a compressor. A compressor is a mechanical device that generates compressed air by reducing its volume, increasing its pressure. In contrast, an air receiver, commonly referred to as an air tank, serves as a storage container for the compressed air generated by the compressor. The air receiver helps balance the supply and demand of compressed air, ensuring that air tools and other pneumatic devices operate efficiently.
The frequency of inspection for air receiver tanks can vary depending on local regulations and specific operational conditions, but for Australian standards, regular inspections are recommended. These inspections, which often include checks for corrosion, leaks, and other signs of wear and tear, are crucial for the tank's structural integrity and safe operation.
