## What are Scuba Diving Tanks Made Of?
Scuba diving tanks are essential for any scuba diver, as they provide the compressed air that divers breathe underwater.
But what are these tanks made of, and how do they work? Let’s take a closer look.
### Types of Scuba Diving Tanks
There are two main types of scuba diving tanks:
1.
Aluminum tanks
Aluminum tanks are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for use in saltwater environments. They are also relatively inexpensive to produce.
Aluminum tanks come in a variety of sizes, from small, portable tanks to large, high-capacity tanks.
2.
Steel tanks
Steel tanks are heavier than aluminum tanks, but they are also more durable. They are often used in technical diving applications, where divers need a more robust tank.
Steel tanks come in a limited range of sizes, as they are more difficult to manufacture than aluminum tanks.
### Construction of Scuba Diving Tanks
Scuba diving tanks are made of a variety of materials, including:
1.
Outer shell
The outer shell of a scuba diving tank is typically made of aluminum or steel. The outer shell is designed to withstand the high pressure of the compressed air inside the tank.
2.
Inner liner
The inner liner of a scuba diving tank is made of a material that is resistant to corrosion. The inner liner helps to protect the outer shell from the corrosive effects of the compressed air.
3.
Valve
The valve on a scuba diving tank is used to control the flow of air into and out of the tank. The valve is typically made of brass or stainless steel.
4.
Pressure gauge
The pressure gauge on a scuba diving tank indicates the amount of air remaining in the tank. The pressure gauge is typically located on the top of the tank.
### Sizes of Scuba Diving Tanks
The capacity of a scuba diving tank is typically measured in cubic feet of air. The most common sizes of scuba diving tanks are:
–
- 80 cubic feet
–
- 100 cubic feet
–
- 120 cubic feet
Larger tanks are also available, but they are more difficult to transport and use.
### Choosing the Right Scuba Diving Tank
The type and size of scuba diving tank that you need will depend on your specific diving needs.
If you are a beginner diver, you will likely want to start with a smaller tank, such as an 80 cubic foot tank. As you gain more experience, you may want to upgrade to a larger tank.
If you are planning on doing any technical diving, you will likely need a steel tank. Steel tanks are more durable than aluminum tanks, and they can withstand the higher pressures that are encountered in technical diving.
### Conclusion
Scuba diving tanks are essential for any scuba diver. They provide the compressed air that divers breathe underwater.
There are two main types of scuba diving tanks: aluminum tanks and steel tanks. Aluminum tanks are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, while steel tanks are more durable.
Scuba diving tanks come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the tank that is right for your specific diving needs.