Scuba tanks are an essential part of every scuba diver’s kit. Although they are not air-filled, they do hold a large amount of gas. Tank sizes vary according to the type of diving you'll be doing, and you'll want to choose the right one based on the type of water you plan to go in. Below are the main types and sizes of scuba tanks.
scuba tanks contain no air
The aluminum 80 standard cylinder holds 77 ft3 air. Trimix, a type of dive gas, has a ten to twenty-percent lower capacity than air. A higher maximum operating pressure doesn’t necessarily mean that there is more air. However, manufacturers are known to overstate the capacity of their tanks. You should therefore compare the capacity of each cylindrical against the actual volume.
They contain a volume of free gas greater than their water capacity
Technical divers use different mixed gases than recreational divers, and their true air and Trimix capacities are less than their actual water capacities. Helium, for example, is less compressible than air, so the true air and Trimix capacities are smaller than their water capacity. The true air volume of Double HP117 cylinders is 235 ft3, while Heliair 10/50 cylinders have a true capacity of 216 Ft3. The Z Factors for SCUBA Tables can be used to determine the correct mixed-gas capacity.
They are made of steel or aluminum
When choosing between a steel and an aluminum scuba tank, consider which is more suitable for a divers' needs. Steel tanks can withstand deeper dives and are more durable. This durability comes at a price. Aluminum tanks can experience structural fractures faster and can pose a danger. A steel tank can also be more expensive than an aluminium one. Aluminum tanks, however, are now the industry standard.
They are available in different sizes
Two materials are used to make scuba tanks: aluminum and steel. Steel tanks are lighter than aluminum and can last for longer. They also tend to weigh more. If you plan on doing a lot of diving and plan to bring a weight belt, it might be best to go with an aluminum tank. You should know that aluminum tanks can be heavier than steel tanks and are therefore lighter than steel tanks. Steel tanks are excellent for drysuit diving as well as local scuba divers.
They need to be inspected on a regular basis
There are many methods to test your scuba tanks. Hydrostatic testing is often done beneath the neck of a tank. An inspection visually can help you detect corrosion or contamination. Tumbling is another way of checking the tank's condition. Tumbling involves filling it with media and spinning it for a certain period of time to remove dirt and other contaminants. If your tank sounds noisy, it could be a sign that it needs cleaning.