Scuba tanks should be a part of every diver's kit. Although they don't contain air, they have a lot of gas. This is usually more than what 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 are the main types and sizes of scuba tanks.
scuba tanks contain no air
The aluminum 80 standard cylinder holds 77 ft3 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. Hence, you should compare the capacity of each cylinder against the actual volume of air in it.
They are capable of storing more free gas that their water capacities.
Technical divers use mixed gases differently to recreational divers. Their true air and Trimix capacities, however, are lower 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. Use the Z Factors (SCUBA tables) to determine the correct mixed gasoline capacity.
They are made out of steel and 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. However, this durability comes with a price. Aluminum tanks can experience structural fractures faster and can pose a danger. Additionally, an aluminum tank will cost more than a steel one. Aluminum tanks, however, are now the industry standard.
They are available in various sizes
Scuba tanks are made from steel or 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. But aluminum tanks are heavier than steel tanks. Before purchasing an aluminum tank, you need to be aware of your weight requirements. Steel tanks are great for drysuit diving and local scuba diving.
They must be inspected often
There are several ways to check your scuba tank. Hydrostatic testing is usually stamped into the metal beneath the neck of the tank. Visual inspections can be used to help detect corrosion or contamination. Tumbling is another way of checking the tank's condition. Tumbling involves filling it with media and spinning it for a certain period of time to remove dirt and other contaminants. It may be necessary to clean the tank if it sounds rough.