Compressed Air storage is an often neglected aspect of compressed air systems. Stainless steel compressed air tanks are usually forgotten about more than traditional storage tanks. They cost more and can be heavier to ship, not to mention that a custom option will take even longer.
Compressed air storage eases the strain on your compressor by increasing the compressed air quantity on hand without overworking it. Storing compressed air allows air to be used while the compressor is idle, and it will kick back on when the tank gets low enough.
If you want adequate storage in place, you need to line up the parameters of your compressed air storage.
No matter the cost, if your tank is incorrectly sized, it won’t work. Tanks are an excellent addition to your compressed air system; they improve equipment lifespan and overall quality of air. These tanks improve the overall quality due to their multifaceted use.
Tanks are responsible for stabilizing pressure, enhancing tool performance, and keeping a reserve of compressed air. A multitude of industries rely on compressed air storage to improve their processes. Whether someone is in oil, manufacturing, or food production, additional compressed air storage is beneficial.
A big decision in choosing compressed air storage tanks is the material they are made of. Most compressed air tanks will be made of aluminum, a reliable material for compressed air tanks. However, those seeking the most reliable and durable material will consider Stainless Steel Compressed Air Tanks.
Stainless Steel is designed to excel in environments where corrosive resistance is needed. Where standard aluminum or carbon steel might deteriorate under harsh conditions, stainless steel stands strong.
In addition to its extended lifespan, stainless steel tanks need less protection than other tanks, even though they cost more. Stainless steel tanks are more durable, easier to recycle, more hygienic, and last longer than traditional storage tanks.
Despite their durability, stainless steel tanks provide ample room for customization. They can be bent, rolled, and shaped to fit your customization needs. If you are in an industry where a custom stainless steel tank would benefit you, our sales engineers are waiting to help.
We mentioned earlier that stainless steel storage tanks have a few advantages. They are more durable and last longer, but how exactly do they achieve this?
Stainless Steel is exceptionally corrosion-resistant, allowing it to be used in environments that would harm other compressed air tanks. It can also handle long periods without rusting in damp or acidic/alkaline environments. These chemical properties result in a highly stable material. It can resist erosion due to acidic media, thus ensuring high-quality air without harming the interior.
Stainless steel storage tanks operate in conditions that would cause traditional air tanks to falter. Whether in scorching heat or chilling cold, the material is excellently resistant to extreme temperatures. The stability provided in both high and low-temperature environments ensures the quality and standard of the compressed air.
These stainless steel compressed air tanks are relatively lightweight relative to their durability and resilience—light in weight but high in strength and durability. Transportation and installation of stainless steel compressed air tanks are more convenient and work less than a comparable model made of carbon steel.
Stainless Steel compressed air tanks are designed to effectively seal the inside from dust, dirt, and other harmful substances. It ensures the compressed air quality in and out of the tank. You can improve air mobility and transport efficiency through your compressed air system. Fewer to no leaks from the tank optimizes the pressure stabilization of the air and allows for more efficient water removal.
The strengths we discussed earlier are our points of reference when comparing stainless steel compressed air tanks to traditional aluminum tanks. Material affects durability, which impacts overall cleanliness, reliability, and expectations.
The main benefit of stainless steel is its durability compared to other compressed air tank materials. No other option will be as dependable as stainless steel. Aluminum is liable to rust when it comes into contact with water, let alone any other moisture or particles present.
Stainless steel vessels can withstand wide temperature ranges, especially extremely low temperatures. Even with extreme temperatures, these units can maintain their shape and resistant properties over extended periods. UV light, which can significantly hinder traditional air storage tanks of other materials, has a much weaker effect on stainless steel.
Due to its production process, stainless steel is considered an environmentally friendly material. New stainless steel items comprise roughly 60% to 70% recycled material, which is biodegradable. Storage tanks made entirely of stainless steel are eco-friendly and 100% recyclable.
The unit as a whole is more environmentally friendly, and that doesn’t include inspecting the inside of the tanks. Stainless steel tanks are more corrosion-resistant, meaning the drained water is inherently cleaner. The rust and corrosion congeal with the water, creating a wonderful dark mixture that is dumped out.
Just because stainless steel compressed air tanks excel in specific applications, it does not mean they are always the best choice. Sometimes, you just need a reliable storage tank to hold extra compressed air. In these cases, there is no need to run from aluminum. They are the go-to for many compressed air operations.
Aluminum is valued for its lightweight properties and high thermal conductivity. It’s resistant to corrosion and is regularly used in industries where weight reduction is critical. Aluminum tanks are smooth to transport and install but unsuitable for excessive stress applications.
If you aren’t operating in a high-stress environment, aluminum compressed air storage tanks could suit you.
Stainless steel is ultimately more expensive than aluminum, which is no surprise. Higher-quality equipment is more costly than lower-quality equipment. Unfortunately, increased durability and reliability aren’t free add-ons. They require the initial investment in a stainless steel compressed air storage tank.
Stainless steel has become the preferred choice for industrial gas storage and transportation. Its corrosion resistance, temperature resistance, weight and strength combination, and sealing make it second to none. These tanks can operate in a variety of harsh environments.
Reliable compressed air storage can give you additional peace of mind throughout the workday. Whether you have compressor troubles or are just worried about having enough air, a reliable compressed air tank can help.
Before you invest heavily in a brand-new compressed air storage tank, compare the initial investment and lifetime costs. Some equipment may cost less upfront, but after maintenance and repairs, it can cost more in the long run. The same can be said for the inverse: tanks that cost more upfront can be cheaper in the long term.
Ensure that your compressed air storage is adequately sized for the present and the future. If you add a new tank to your compressed air system, you will want it to grow with you. Nothing is worse than sizing up your compressor and realizing the tank you recently added is too small for the updated system. Consider your growth when you are getting an additional tank, and you can save yourself more money in the long run.
The Decision is Yours
The material choice for your compressed air systems is ultimately up to the customer. The type of tank material you go with is your choice, whether you need something with a lower upfront cost or something that will last you for years. Stainless Steel is more expensive than aluminum. It is also more durable, more recyclable, more customizable, and has increased longevity.
Buy your own tank here.
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