Work out air receiver tank size instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
A receiver buys time by trading pressure for volume. The stored air released as the tank falls by the allowable pressure drop must cover the shortfall between peak demand and compressor output, giving V = (demand - output) x time x 14.7 / Δp in cubic feet, then 7.48 gallons per cubic foot.
Receiver volume
V ft³ = (peak SCFM - output SCFM) x minutes x 14.7 / allowable Δp psi
V ft³ = (peak SCFM - output SCFM) x minutes x 14.7 / allowable Δp psi. A receiver buys time by trading pressure for volume.
Indirectly. Extra storage lets the compressor run in longer, more efficient loaded cycles instead of rapidly loading and unloading, and it smooths pressure for the whole plant.
This calculator takes 4 inputs: Peak air demand, Compressor output, Time peak must be supported, Allowable pressure drop. The pre-filled defaults are a realistic worked example — replace them with your own site or project figures.