Air Receiver Sizing Calculator
Calculate the correct air receiver tank size for your compressed air system based on compressor flow, operating pressure, and peak demand duration. Understand the sizing formula and selection guidelines.
Inputs
Pressure below which equipment won't operate properly
Duration of the peak demand event
Results
253 L
Calculated minimum
380 L
With 50% safety margin
250 CFM
Air available between p_max and p_min
The Sizing Formula
The receiver tank is sized to provide sufficient air storage to meet peak demand without the pressure dropping below the minimum acceptable level:
Where: V = receiver volume (L), Q = air demand (L/s), t = demand duration (s), P_atm = atmospheric pressure (bar), P_max = max operating pressure (bar abs), P_min = min allowable pressure (bar abs)
General Rule of Thumb
- Minimum: 1 gallon (3.8 L) per CFM of compressor capacity
- For systems with high peak demand: 2–3 gallons per CFM
- For VSD compressors: 2 gallons per CFM (VSDs need storage to stabilise control)
- The receiver should be large enough that the compressor doesn't short-cycle (more than 6–8 starts per hour)
- Always go larger if in doubt — a larger receiver improves system stability and reduces cycling
Pro tip: Install the receiver tank downstream of the air dryer. This ensures dry air is stored, preventing condensation in the tank. Install a drain (manual or automatic) at the bottom of the tank to remove any condensate that does form.