Scuba tanks are an essential part of every scuba diver’s kit. While they contain no air, they do contain a large volume of free gas, which is generally greater than the amount of water they can hold. 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. Below is a list of the most common scuba tanks, along with their sizes.
scuba tanks contain no air
Standard aluminum 80 cylinders can hold 77 cubic feet of air. Trimix, a dive gas, is 10-20% smaller than air. A higher maximum service pressure does not necessarily mean more air. Although manufacturers overestimate the tank's capacity, they often do so. It is worth comparing the capacity of each cylinder with the actual volume.
They have a greater volume of free gas than their water capacity
Technical divers divers use different mix gases to divers than recreational divers. Therefore, their true air- and Trimix capacity is less than their 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. Use the Z Factors (SCUBA tables) to determine the correct mixed gasoline capacity.
They can be made of aluminum or steel
You should consider the divers' needs when choosing between an aluminium or steel scuba tanks. Steel tanks are more robust and can withstand deeper underwater dives. This durability comes with a price. Aluminum tanks are more susceptible to structural fractures and can prove dangerous. A steel tank costs more that an aluminum one. But aluminum tanks are now the industry standard.
They are available in various sizes
Two materials are used to make scuba tanks: aluminum and steel. 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. Aluminum tanks may not be as light as steel tanks so it is important to know your weight requirements before you purchase one. Steel tanks are great for drysuit diving and local scuba diving.
They should be checked regularly
There are many options for checking your scuba diving tank. Hydrostatic testing usually is done below the tank's neck. You can also inspect the tank visually to detect corrosion and contamination. Tumbling is another method to inspect the tank's condition. Tumbling involves filling your tank with media, and then spinning it for a period of time to remove any dirt or other contaminants. If the tank's sound is unusual, it might be an indication that it needs to get cleaned.