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In this article, we’ll compare the two most popular types of pressure tanks – horizontal air receivers and vertical air receivers – to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore the pros and cons of each tank, and provide tips on what to consider when choosing between them. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of which pressure tank is best suited for your well system.
The biggest factor to consider when deciding which pressure vessel to use is how much space you have available in the workshop or factory. As you can guess from the names a vertical receiver takes up a lot of vertical space and a horizontal receiver takes up a lot of horizontal space. If only limited space is available, then a vertical receiver would be the best option in this instance. As an example, if you required a 100-litre capacity air receiver the floor space taken up by a vertical receiver would be approximately 1.50 square feet compared to 4.12 square feet needed for a horizontal receiver of the same capacity.
Although the space you have available is a big deciding factor when evaluating what vessel you require, it’s not the only thing to consider. If the available space isn’t an issue then it comes down to more practical factors such as the ease of installation and the ease of ongoing maintenance and inspections. For more information on the advantages and disadvantages of both options please see the below list.
Vertical Air Receivers
ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
Space Saving -Smaller Footprint compared to a horizontal tank. | Height Restrictions – The vertical configuration can be an issue where ceiling height is limited. |
Better air quality – The vertical orientation of the receiver allows for better air quality as moisture and oil collect at the bottom of the tank away from the air outlet. | Increased Maintenance – Due to the orientation of the receiver the moisture and oil that collects at the bottom of the tank will need draining more often than a horizontal tank. It can be harder to access some valves and fittings for maintenance compared to a horizontal receiver. |
Easy to Move – Due to the smaller footprint of a vertical receiver they are easier to move than a horizontal receiver | Stability – Due to the higher centre of gravity vertical tanks are more prone to tipping than horizontal tanks. This can be avoided by fixing the receiver to a stable base. |
Horizontal Air Receivers
ADVANTAGES | DISADVANTAGES |
Space Efficient – Due to their configuration horizontal tanks can be installed in tight spaces where a vertical tank may not fit | Floor Space Required – While horizontal tanks can be installed in tight locations the floor space required is considerably more than a vertical receiver |
Stability – As the horizontal tank has a lower centre of gravity these receivers are much more stable than their vertical counterparts | |
Easier Maintenance – The horizontal orientation of the receiver makes it easier to be able to access the valves and fittings for maintenance and repair. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, both horizontal and vertical pressure tanks have their pros and cons. It ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like space, ease of maintenance, and air usage to determine which type of tank is better for you. Either way, investing in a high-quality pressure tank will ensure that your air supply remains consistent and reliable for years to come.
