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Air receiver tanks are essential components for a variety of industries, including the medical industry.
These tanks play a critical role in the delivery and storage of compressed air that is used to power various medical equipment such as ventilators, surgical tools, and dental instruments.
Using an air receiver ensures that these machines function correctly and reliably.
Benefits and Uses of Pressure Vessels Within the Medical Industry
One of the primary functions of an air receiver tank is to maintain a steady supply of compressed air at the right pressure level. This consistency is vital within the medical industry to ensure that equipment operates correctly without any interruptions or fluctuations in pressure levels.
Additionally, the air receiver tanks act as buffers between the compressor and the downstream equipment, which helps reduce wear and tear on compressors by allowing them to run less frequently.
In addition to their practical uses in powering medical equipment, air receivers also play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety by preventing the contamination of the medical air supply.
Medical air, unlike standard industrial compressed air, must meet strict purity requirements such as ISO standard ISO 7361-1:2007 to prevent the transmission of harmful pathogens or bacteria to vulnerable patients. The air receiver can achieve this by providing a reservoir of clean, dry air that can be filtered and purified before being delivered to the patient.
Safety Precautions / Receivers for Oxygen Use
It is important to note that these tanks can pose a serious safety risk if not used and maintained correctly, especially when used with oxygen, which is an explosive gas.
Safety precautions should be taken when using air receivers within any medical application, no matter the media to ensure the best possible care is provided to the patient.
Handling Oxygen Safely
Oxygen is an explosive gas, and when it comes into contact with combustible materials such as oil and grease, it can ignite and cause an explosion. Medical facilities must take special precautions when handling oxygen to prevent accidents.
The oxygen tanks must be kept away from heat sources, open flames, or electrical equipment, and stored in a secure, well-ventilated area. It is also essential to avoid using any combustible materials within the site.
Proper Design and Installation of Pressure Vessels
The design and installation of air receivers must follow strict regulations and guidelines to ensure they can handle the specific requirements of the application.
They must be designed to withstand high pressures and constructed from materials that are suitable for the type of media used.
It is essential to ensure that the air receiver is installed correctly, with proper grounding and adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of dangerous gases.
Air Receiver Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safe operation of air receivers. There must be regular inspections and testing done to ensure that the tank is in good condition and free of leaks, corrosion, and other defects.
The tank must also be kept clean and free of debris, which can cause contamination and affect the quality of the media.
Avoiding Contamination of the Pressure Vessel
Air receivers must be kept clean and free from contamination to prevent the risk of infection or other health hazards to patients. It is essential to ensure that the air entering the receiver is filtered and purified before it is used, especially when it is used with oxygen.
There should be appropriate filters and monitoring systems installed in the line to ensure that the compressed air is of the required purity level and free from contaminants.
Fluid-Air Components Ltd work with several medical, dental and veterinary companies in the UK and knows exactly what is required to keep you running smoothly.
Get in touch today with one of our experts to discuss your requirements and how we can save you money in unnecessary maintenance and downtime on 01634 297298 or email us at sales@fluid-air.co.uk.
