Industrial Air Blog

What are the different types of compressed air receivers?

Written by Jeremy Richards | Jul 29, 2024 8:14:18 PM

Compressed air receivers cater to the diverse needs of various industries. Compressors, such as reciprocating compressors require an air receiver to minimise pulsation and for storage. 

The right air receiver for your specific application allows for optimal efficiency and reliability in your compressed air system. This article explores the various types of compressed air receivers available, their specific applications, and how Industrial Air Systems can meet your requirements.

What is an air receiver?

An air receiver, commonly known as an air compressor tank, is a fundamental component of a compressed air system. It serves as a reservoir that stores compressed air, helping to balance the supply and demand within the system. 

The air receiver maintains consistent system pressure, by acting as a buffer. This provides a steady supply of air during periods of peak demand. This improves the overall efficiency of the system and reduces the wear and tear on the compressor, leading to lower energy consumption and maintenance costs. Air receivers are suitable for industries that require stable and reliable compressed air for their operations. 

The benefits of air receiver tanks

Air receivers provide several advantages, such as storing compressed air to maintain steady pressure and enhancing the performance of pneumatic tools and machinery. By reducing the load on air compressors, they increase efficiency and decrease wear and tear. Additionally, properly sized air receivers ensure a reliable supply of compressed air during high-demand periods.

Who needs an air receiver?

Air receivers are vital for any compressed air system that experiences fluctuating demand or requires a stable supply of air. Industries such as manufacturing, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals may need air receivers to maintain system efficiency and reliability. 

The different types of air receiver tanks

Industrial Air Systems offers a variety of air receiver tanks to suit different applications and needs.

Paint finish air receivers

Paint finish air receivers are available in sizes ranging from 270 litres to 20,000 litres, and can be configured as either horizontal or vertical tanks. These air receivers are built to handle pressures up to 40 bar and are manufactured to meet CE certifications PED2014/68/EU and 2014/29/EU, as well as ISO9001 quality certification. Each tank undergoes rigorous testing, including being tested to 16.5 bar, 25 bar, and 60 bar pressure, ensuring their durability and reliability.

During the manufacturing process, the inside, and outside of the tanks are cleaned, hydrostatically tested, and then coated with a double layer of hard-wearing paint. All paint finish air receivers are design-certified to New Zealand seismic requirements. While basic paint finish air receivers are suitable for most industrial applications, they are not recommended for food-grade production facilities.

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Galvanised finish air receivers

Galvanised finish air receivers are available in sizes ranging from 270 litres to 20,000 litres, configured as either horizontal or vertical tanks. These air receivers are designed to handle pressures up to 40 bar and are manufactured to meet CE certifications PED2014/68/EU and 2014/29/EU, as well as ISO9001 quality certification. Each tank is rigorously tested to pressures of 16.5 bar, 25 bar, and 60 bar, ensuring their robustness and reliability.

During the manufacturing process, the inside and outside of the tanks are hot-dipped in zinc. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and makes them ideal for long-lasting, weatherproof storage. All galvanised finish air receivers are design-certified to New Zealand seismic requirements, ensuring they comply with local safety standards. These tanks are typically available on an indent-only basis, with a lead time of approximately 3–4 months. Some sizes may be available in New Zealand for immediate purchase, and availability can be confirmed by contacting Industrial Air Systems.

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Stainless steel air receivers

Stainless steel air receivers are available in sizes ranging from 270 litres to 20,000 litres and can be configured as either horizontal or vertical tanks. These air receivers are built to handle pressures up to 40 bar and are manufactured to meet the highest standards, including CE certifications PED2014/68/EU and 2014/29/EU, as well as ISO9001 quality certification. Each tank undergoes rigorous testing, including being tested to 16.5 bar, 25 bar, and 60 bar pressure, ensuring their durability and reliability.

These air receivers are made from high-grade stainless steel, making them ideal for applications requiring a high level of purity, such as the dairy, food and beverage, and chemical industries. All stainless steel air receivers are design-certified to New Zealand seismic requirements, ensuring they meet local safety standards. These receivers are sold on an indent-only basis, with a lead time of approximately 3–4 months.

Enquire about stainless steel air receivers »

Custom build receivers

Custom-sized air receiver tanks may be necessary for specialised applications. Industrial Air Systems offers custom-built air receivers tailored to meet specific operational needs. For example, Fonterra, a leading dairy processing company, requires custom tanks designed to their stringent specifications. Custom air receivers can vary significantly in size, material, and finish, providing tailored solutions that enhance system efficiency and reliability. Custom coatings and finishes, such as epoxy or specialised linings, add to the cost but provide additional benefits. The timeframe for building custom air receivers typically extends several weeks to accommodate specific requirements.

Finding the right air receiver

Choosing the right air receiver is essential to ensure your compressed air system operates efficiently and reliably. Compressed air receiver sizing is critical for maintaining optimal performance and reducing energy consumption. Additionally, integrating a compressed air piping system correctly can significantly impact the efficiency of your setup.

Industrial Air Systems offers a wide range of standard and custom air receivers designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses across New Zealand.  Contact our experts today and they can help you determine the best option based on your requirements or download our air receivers and condensate drains brochure.