Compressed Air Receivers

Calculator and reference tool for sizing compressed air receivers. Calculates receiver tank volume based on air consumption, pressure differential, and time requirements. Includes a reference table of standard receiver capacities.

Air Receiver Sizing Calculator

Calculate the required volume of a compressed air receiver tank based on:

  • Free air needed (C) in SCFM
  • Maximum tank pressure (p1) in psia
  • Minimum tank pressure (p2) in psia
  • Time for pressure drop (t) in seconds

Uses the formula: V = t × C × pa / (p1 - p2)

Where pa = atmospheric pressure (14.7 psia)

Calculator

Inputs

Results

Required Tank Volume-- cubic feet
Required Tank Volume-- gallons
Pressure Band (Storage)-- psig

Standard Sizing Rules

  • 1 gallon per ACFM - Quick rule for general applications
  • 4 gallons per compressor HP - Alternative sizing based on motor horsepower

Air Receiver Standard Capacities Reference

Tank Size (inches)Tank Size (gallons)50 psig (cu ft)100 psig (cu ft)150 psig (cu ft)200 psig (cu ft)
12 × 24101.3111519
14 × 36202.7213039
16 × 36304.0314559
20 × 48608.06290117
20 × 63801183120156
24 × 6812016125180234
30 × 8424032250360467

Key Considerations

Pressure Band: The difference between maximum and minimum tank pressure is critical. A larger pressure band allows:

  • Better buffering of consumption variations
  • More air storage capacity
  • Reduced compressor cycling

Typical Pressure Bands: 10 psig is common; 15-20 psig provides better buffer capacity.

Unit Conversions:

  • 1 ft³ = 0.02832 m³
  • 1 gallon (U.S.) = 3.785 liters
  • 1 psig = 0.069 bar