Scuba tanks are an essential component of any scuba diver’s equipment. They do not contain air but they do have large amounts of free gas. Different types of diving require different tank sizes. Therefore, you need to make sure you choose the right tank for you based on what water you are going to be using. Here are the main types of Scuba Tanks and their sizes.
scuba tanks contain no air
The standard aluminum 80 can holds 77 feet3 air. Trimix, a type of dive gas, has a ten to twenty-percent lower capacity than air. Also, higher maximum service pressures don't necessarily equal more air. However, manufacturers tend to exaggerate the tanks' capacities. You should therefore compare the capacity of each cylindrical against the actual volume.
They are able to store more free gas than they can hold in water.
Technical divers use different mixed gases than recreational divers, and their true air and Trimix capacities are less than their actual water capacities. Helium, which is more compressible and less elastic than air, means that their true air or Trimix capacities will be smaller than their water capabilities. Heliair 10/50, on the other hand, has a true volume of 216 ft3 and Double HP117 cylinders a volume of 235ft3. To determine the correct mixed gas capacity, use the Z Factors for SCUBA tables.
They are made from aluminum or steel
When choosing between a steel and an aluminum scuba tank, consider which is more suitable for a divers' needs. Steel tanks are more robust and can withstand deeper underwater dives. This durability comes with a price. Aluminum tanks can experience structural fractures faster and can pose a danger. In addition, a steel tank costs more than an aluminum one. But aluminum tanks are now the industry standard.
They come in a variety of sizes
Scuba tanks are made of two materials: steel and aluminum. Steel tanks are lighter, more durable and heavier than aluminum tanks. However, they tend to be heavier. 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. However, aluminum tanks are not as lightweight as steel tanks, so you should be aware of your weight requirements before purchasing one. Steel tanks are excellent for drysuit diving as well as local scuba divers.
They must be inspected regularly
There are many ways you can check your scuba tank. 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 the tank in with media and spinning the tank for a specified period to remove dirt and contaminants. It may be necessary to clean the tank if it sounds rough.