Lufttank

A lufttank is a pressure vessel designed to store compressed air or other gases at elevated pressure. It functions as a reservoir to smooth supply from a compressor, provide a reserve for short bursts of demand, and reduce the cycling of the compressor or downstream equipment. Lufttanks are used in a variety of contexts, from industrial pneumatic systems to breathing-gas storage for diving.

There are different types of lufttanks. Industrial air receivers typically operate at relatively low pressures, around 7 to 12 bar, and range in size from a few dozen to several thousand liters. High‑pressure tanks used for breathing air in scuba or shipboard systems store gas at 200 to 300 bar and are usually smaller in volume, often 7 to 15 liters. The choice of material—steel, aluminum, or, for some high‑pressure applications, carbon fiber composites—depends on the required strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. Each tank is equipped with valves and safety devices to regulate pressure and prevent overfill.

Standards and safety are important for lufttanks. They are designed and manufactured to national or international codes (such as ASME, EN, or PED), and require regular inspections and hydrostatic testing to ensure integrity. Proper handling includes keeping tanks dry and undamaged, using appropriate fill equipment, and ensuring the correct gas type and pressure are used for the application.

See also: air compressor, air receiver, scuba tank, pressure vessel.