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Calculation Machine

Air Receiver Tank Size Calculator

Tank volume for a compressed air system.

Reviewed by the Calculation Machine team · How we check our maths

Your values

ⓘ Live results

Results
Receiver volume
11.76 cu ft
In gallons
88 gal
Usable pressure band
25 psi
Rule of thumb (4 gal per CFM)
80 gal
Recommended
88 gal

Quick answer

Receiver size depends on the air drawn, the usable pressure band and how long you can wait between compressor starts.

The formula

V = T x (C - D) x Patm / (P1 - P2)

Worked example

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with.

Inputs

  • Demand20 SCFM
  • Time to hold1 min
  • Max pressure125 psi
  • Min pressure100 psi

Result

  • Receiver volume11.76 cu ft
  • In gallons88 gal
  • Usable pressure band25 psi
  • Rule of thumb (4 gal per CFM)80 gal
  • Recommended88 gal

How to use the Air Receiver Tank Size Calculator

  1. 1Enter the demand the tank must cover on its own and for how long.
  2. 2Set the cut-in and cut-out pressures of your compressor.
  3. 3Round up to a standard tank size — bigger tanks reduce motor starts and wear.

Frequently asked questions

Wet or dry receiver?

A wet receiver before the dryer knocks out condensate; a dry receiver after it stores clean air for peaks.

Rule of thumb?

Four gallons of tank per CFM works well for reciprocating compressors.

About this calculator