The air reservoir that absorbs the pressure waves at the compressor outlet is called the air tank and serves to provide stable air pressure. It stores the amount of air required to meet sudden air demands exceeding the compressor capacity. The air tank capacity is determined based on the compressor capacity and the shape of the air demand.

The capacity of the air tank in liters can be selected from 6 to 10 times the capacity of the screw compressor or reciprocating compressor in liters / second. The second benefit of air storage is; It facilitates the condensation of moisture in the air and the evacuation of the condensate formed. As a result of moisture condensation, the water collected at the bottom of the air tank should be discharged out of the system by means of traps.

Air tanks and compressor tests must be done at least once a year, and unless otherwise specified in the standards, 1,5 times the operating pressure is applied during the tests. Nevertheless, taking into account the characteristics and conditions of the facility where the air tanks are used and the characteristics of the work equipment, if hydrostatic testing is not available, non-destructive testing methods specified in the standards can be applied instead of hydrostatic testing. This situation should be shown in the reports to be issued after the inspection and controls. 

One of the misunderstood points is that only the air tank is periodically checked and it is thought that there is no need for periodic control of the compressor. This is quite wrong as the compressors also have their own pressurized sections. Compressors must be examined separately.

During hydrostatic testing of air tanks, the air inside the air tank is discharged and the safety valve is removed. The compressed air outlet of the air tank is closed and filled with water so that no air remains inside. A test pump is then connected to the air tank and the tank pressure is applied to the 1,5 times the operating pressure. In this way, the tank is kept for a required time. The pressure of the air tank must not be reduced during this time.

There must be no leakage, leakage, deformation and trouble in the safety valve. Periodic inspection of air tanks must be carried out by mechanical engineers, machine technicians or high technicians. Their information should be recorded electronically in the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

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