How do I size an air receiver tank?

Use V = Q × t × P_atm / (P_max − P_min), where Q is air demand (L/s), t is acceptable time between compressor cycles (s), P_atm is atmospheric pressure, P_max is cut-out pressure, and P_min is cut-in pressure.

What is the rule of thumb for air receiver sizing?

A common rule of thumb is 3–5 gallons of receiver per CFM of compressor output, or roughly 10–20 liters per L/s. This provides a buffer for short-term demand peaks.

What is cut-in and cut-out pressure?

Cut-out pressure is the maximum pressure at which the compressor stops. Cut-in pressure is the minimum pressure at which it restarts. The difference (P_max − P_min) is the pressure band, typically 1–2 bar.

Why do I need an air receiver?

Air receivers smooth out pulsations from the compressor, store energy for peak demands, allow condensate to drop out, reduce compressor cycling, and act as a buffer between supply and demand.

Can I use multiple air receivers?

Yes, using a wet receiver (before dryer) and dry receiver (after dryer) is a best practice. The wet receiver handles pulsations and condensate, while the dry receiver provides clean, dry air storage close to the demand.

Free Engineering Tool — #144

Air Receiver Tank Volume Calculator

Determine the required air receiver tank size based on compressor output, cut-in/cut-out pressure, and demand time.

V = Q×t×P_atm / (P_max − P_min) Litres & Gallons

Results

Required Receiver Volume

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Stored Energy (Free Air)

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Pressure Band ΔP

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Air Demand (Free Air)

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Receiver Volume Formula

V — receiver volume (litres)
Q — air demand (L/s at atmospheric pressure)
t — allowable pressure drop time (seconds)
P_atm — atmospheric pressure (1.013 bar abs)
P_max — cut-out pressure (bar gauge)
P_min — cut-in pressure (bar gauge)

Example — Medium Workshop

Given: Q = 15 L/s, t = 30 s, P_max = 8 bar, P_min = 6 bar

V = 15 × 30 × 1.013 / (8 − 6) = 227.9 litres

Select a standard 250 L receiver tank.

⚠️ Note: Always round up to the next standard tank size. Consider adding 10–20% margin for future expansion.

Air Receiver Tank Volume Calculator | Free Online Tool

Published by admin on February 15, 2026 February 15, 2026

Results

Receiver Volume Formula