Getting to Know Your Air System: Air Tanks

How Air Tanks Help Stop Your Semi-Truck

The air tank in your semi-truck's air brake is one of the most important components in the system. Able to store large amounts of compressed air, air tanks, or "reservoirs," supply the suspension, brakes, and additional systems with air. If you've ever wanted to know a little bit more about the reservoirs in your semi-truck's air brake system, then you are in luck! Our experts have put together the following article to help make sure you know as much as possible about your reservoir tanks. Read on to learn more!

What is a Semi-Truck Air Tank?

Today's air brake systems are all made with air tanks that are run by the engine-driven compressor. Instead of running constantly, the compressor feeds air to the tanks in cycles to be used by the various equipment that require compressed air to function properly. Since air tanks are able to hold large quantities of compressed air, the sir system is able to react instantly, as opposed to waiting for the compressor to run.

Heavy Duty Air Reservoir Regulations

While durable, air tanks are mounted in a way that makes the susceptible to corrosion and road damage. To combat this, air tanks are typically made with a coating that covers the interior and exterior of the unit. They are also designed to meet stringent SAEJ10 strength requirements, a regulation designed to ensure that air tanks are able to withstand two times the rated working pressure. SAEJ10 treatments also include a heated salt spray test that proves resistance to corrosion.

To test the tanks prior to use, a heated salt spray is uses as an accelerated test to make sure the air tank last as long as possible. The inside of the tank is scribed and needs to handle 96-hours of exposure to a salt spray set to 95° F with no spots of corrosion or coating blisters. The outside of the reservoir is also scribed and is designed to take on 48-hours of exposure to the same salt spray, also set to 95° F.

Replacing Your Commercial Air Tank

There are many factors to consider when thinking about replacing the air reservoir in your braking system. When replacing an air tank, it is in your best interest to look at the valves connected to the tank and replace any that have obvious damage or leaks. Additional factors to think about when replacing your air tank include:

1. Tank diameter: To make sure the replacement tank fits properly, it is extremely important to measure the diameter of the tank, particularly if it is secure with cable or straps. The diameter and length of the tank will determine capacity, which is listed in gallons.

2. Port number and location: Matching the number of ports is the ideal way to make sure that you avoid re-plumbing the air system when you are installing your new tank.

3. Port sizes: If you want to avoid the use of adapters, you will want to make sure your purchase a tank that has ports with the same dimensions as the original manufacturer part that came with your truck.

4. Mounts: Some air tanks do not have mounts and are secured by straps or cables. Those that do include mounts use "C" shape mounting brackets or mounting feet.

Read More About Air Systems

If you are interested in learning more about the air system in your semi-truck, then you've come to the right place. To help you learn as much as possible, our expert team of trucking industry specialists have put together the list of articles below. Click on any of the links below to read more about air systems and the role they play in your semi-truck's overall health.

· Getting to Know Your Air System

· Getting to Know Your Air System: Air Compressors

· Getting to Know Your Air System: Air Dryers

· Getting To Know Your Air System: Gladhands

Shop Air Systems Today!

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