Scuba tanks should be a part of every 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. 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 is a type of dive fuel that has a lower capacity than air. It can hold between ten and twenty percent more. A higher maximum service pressure does not necessarily mean more air. Manufacturers tend to overstate their tanks' capacity, though. You should therefore compare the capacity of each cylindrical against the actual volume.
They have a greater volume of free gas than their water capacity
Technical divers use a different mix of gases than recreational divers. As such, their true air or Trimix capacities are lower than their actual waters capacities. For example, Helium is more compressible than air so their true air and trimix capacities are lower than their water capacities. Double HP117 cylinders contain a true air volume of 235 ft3 while Heliair 10/50 has a true air capacity of 216 ft3. To determine the correct mixed gas capacity, use the Z Factors for SCUBA tables.
They are made of steel or aluminum
Consider the needs of divers when choosing between an aluminum or steel scuba tank. Steel tanks are more durable, and can withstand deeper diving. This durability comes at an expense. Aluminum tanks can experience structural fractures faster and can pose a danger. A steel tank is more expensive than an aluminum tank. Aluminum tanks are the industry standard.
They come in a variety of sizes
Two materials are used to make scuba tanks: aluminum and steel. Steel tanks tend to be lighter and more durable than aluminum, but they are heavier. An aluminum tank may be better if you plan to dive frequently and need to carry a weight belt. 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 great for drysuit diving and local scuba diving.
They should be inspected frequently
There are several ways to check your scuba tank. Hydrostatic testing is often done beneath the neck of a tank. A visual inspection is also a good way to find any corrosion or contamination. Tumbling is another method to inspect 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 is possible that the tank is rattling or needs to be cleaned.