Tank size is an important consideration when selecting an air compressor. The tank size determines how much air the compressor can store, which in turn affects the compressor’s operating time and duty cycle.
Larger tanks can hold more compressed air, which allows the compressor to run for a longer period of time before needing to be refilled. However, if the tank is too large, it will take longer than needed to fill, which can reduce productivity.
Can I Put a Bigger Tank On My Air Compressor?
The answer is yes. You can put a larger tank on your air compressor. But you need to make sure that the compressor is rated to handle the increased weight. You also need to make sure that the inlet and outlet sizes are compatible with the larger tank.
If you are looking to increase the tank size on your air compressor, it is important to consult with the manufacturer first. They can help you select an air compressor with the right sized motor and pump.
However, if you are looking to increase the capabilities of your air compressor without replacing the entire machine, you may want to consider purchasing an air compressor tank instead.
How To Judge The Tank Capacity?
The tank capacity of a portable air compressor is measured in gallons per minute. Manufacturers calculate this measurement as cubic feet per gallon. So the amount of time it takes to fill the tank is directly related to its capacity.
To give you an idea about the differences between common capacities, here are some approximate times for filling different size tanks:
- 2.5-gallon tank – fill time is about 3 minutes.
- 5-gallon tank – fill time is about 6 minutes.
- 10-gallon – fill time is about 12 minutes.
- 20 gallon – fill time is about 24 minutes.
You can use the above information to help you determine how quickly your compressor will refill based upon what size tank it has on it now. And how much larger you would like the new tank to be.
How To Measure The Capacity Of The Tank?
The easiest way to measure the capacity of an air compressor tank is with a measuring gauge.
There are two types, analog and digital. Analog gauges use numbers printed on the side of the tank that shows how full it is, while digital gauges use three or four green bars that fill up as you add more air into the tank.
Some air compressors include a gauge on the compressor’s body that measures tank pressure. This is not a fill gauge, but it can be helpful in understanding how much air is left in the tank.
The Relation Between The Capacity Of The Tank and The Pressure
When looking for an air compressor, capacity should be one of your biggest considerations. Larger tanks can hold more compressed air, which allows the compressor to run for a longer period of time before needing to be refilled.
However, if the tank is too large, it will take longer than needed to fill, which can reduce productivity.
What If My Air Compressor Runs Out Of Compressed Air?
If you do a lot of tasks that require occasional blasts of high-pressure air, such as removing stuck bolts, inflating sports equipment, or cleaning off the sawdust from floors and work surfaces, you may want to consider purchasing an air compressor that can be refilled quickly.
If you are looking for a portable air compressor to perform these tasks, it is important to make sure that the tank will hold enough compressed air so it doesn’t run out in the middle of your job.
The capacity of the tank is important, but it’s not the only factor you need to consider when purchasing an air compressor. You also need to make sure that the inlet and outlet sizes are compatible with the larger tank.
If you are looking to increase the tank size of your air compressor, it is important to measure the size of the compressor’s inlet and outlet. This can be done by measuring the diameter of the threaded opening on both the compressor and tank. The larger the number, the bigger the opening will be.
Most air compressors have an inlet size of 1/4 inch, while tanks usually have an outlet size of 3/8 or 1/2 inch.
FAQs
Can I Put a Bigger Tank On My Air Compressor?
The answer is yes. You can put a larger tank on your air compressor.
If I Buy a Bigger Tank, Do I Need a Bigger Outlet and Inlet?
Yes. You should look into the size of the inlet and outlet to make sure they can accommodate a larger hose and fitting.
How Much Pressure Does The Compressor Need For a Big Tank?
Your compressed air system needs enough pressure or flow to fill the larger tank. If the pressure is too low, it will take longer to fill the tank and your productivity will be reduced.
Can I Put a Smaller Tank On My Air Compressor?
No. You cannot put a smaller tank on your air compressor. The compressor will not be able to fill the smaller tank.
What Is The Tank Pressure?
It is common to find tanks with an operating pressure of 100 psi on small units or 150-175 psi on larger units. Pressure increases with tank size.
How Do I Measure The Capacity Of My Air Compressor Tank?
Capacity can be measured in cubic feet, but some manufactures denote how much air will fill a tire to a certain pressure. You can also use a fill gauge, which is either analog or digital.
Analog gauges use numbers printed on the side of the tank that shows how full it is, while digital gauges use three or four green bars that fill up as you add more air into the tank.
Will My Compressor Work With a Bigger Tank?
The compressor should have enough horsepower to fill the tank. If the pressure is too low, it will take longer to fill the tank and your productivity will be reduced. You can find this information in the product specifications.
How Long Will It Take To Fill a Bigger Tank?
It depends on the size of the tank and the compressor. A larger tank will take longer to fill than a smaller one.
Conclusion:
As long as the pressure on your compressor is enough to fill the larger tank, you can put a larger tank on your air compressor. However, you will need to consider the size of the inlet and outlet before buying an air compressor with a bigger tank.
