Nearly all areas of commerce and the DIYer rely on a quality air compressor in one shape or another. It is surprising how many applications they serve, even a few obscure ones. While air compressors come in all shapes, sizes, power levels, and mechanical configurations, the storage tank can often be a secondary consideration. Why is it important? – The primary role is to ensure a sufficient supply of compressed air during high demand and to reduce the wear and tear on the compressor by reducing the number of cycles and mitigating excessive loading and unloading.
In short, storage tanks, or air receivers, are essential infrastructure for hardworking air compressors.
These tanks come in various sizes and have two orientations: vertical and horizontal. Vertical air compressor storage tanks offer distinct advantages over their horizontal counterparts.
Space Efficiency
One of the most significant advantages of vertical air compressor storage tanks is their space-saving design. Vertical tanks occupy less floor space compared to horizontal tanks of the same capacity. This is beneficial in industries where floor space is at a premium, such as automotive workshops, small manufacturing facilities, and laboratories. By utilising vertical tanks, businesses can maximize their available workspace, allowing for better organisation and easier access to other equipment.
They are generally easier to maintain than horizontal tanks. Their upright position allows for more accessible drainage of accumulated moisture and condensation, which can prevent corrosion and extend the tank’s lifespan. The ease of access to the drain valve at the bottom of a vertical tank makes routine maintenance tasks, such as draining water and inspecting for corrosion, more straightforward.
Safety is a priority
Safety is a high priority in any commercial or industrial setting, and any opportunity to improve workplace safety is a welcome initiative. Due to their design, vertical air compressor storage tanks often offer enhanced safety features. The upright position reduces the risk of oil pooling inside the tank, which can lead to contamination and potential fire hazards, and offers greater visibility due to the upright orientation.
Vertical tanks offer flexibility in placement. They can be installed in tighter spaces, such as utility rooms, corners, or outdoors, without compromising capacity. This flexibility allows industries to optimise their layout and improve workflow efficiency. For instance, in a manufacturing plant, vertical tanks can be strategically placed near production lines to ensure a steady supply of compressed air without obstructing movement or access to other equipment.
Ideal Applications and Industries
Vertical air compressor storage tanks are well-suited for various industries and applications. They provide an efficient solution for storing compressed air without occupying valuable floor space in manufacturing facilities where space is limited. They are commonly used in assembly lines, packaging, and material handling processes.
Due to their compact design, vertical tanks benefit automotive workshops and service centres. They allow easy integration into workspaces where space is at a premium and are ideal for powering pneumatic tools such as impact wrenches and paint sprayers. Vertical tanks supply compressed air for various applications in medical and dental practices, including operating room tools and dental equipment. Their space-saving design is crucial in environments where cleanliness and organisation are essential.
While horizontal tanks do have their advantages in other applications and are a popular choice for many users, vertical air storage tanks are gaining traction as industries search for ways to save space and enhance workplace safety. Pilot Air offers customers a range of vertical air compressor storage tanks from the compact 150L up to the large industrial 1000L. Our tanks are finished in industrial-grade enamel and manufactured to AS1210. They come supplied as standard with a safety valve, pressure gauge, and manual condensate drain and are WorkCover NSW plant design registered.
Personalised service that guarantees results
From the initial consultation to the finished installation, our team is on hand to attend to every detail. You deal with the same person from start to completion, and our account managers and sales team are some of the most experienced and trusted in the industry.
See our complete range of compressed air systems and products and speak to one of our experienced team members to customise a compressed air solution to meet today’s and tomorrow’s demands.
