Breathing underwater for longer periods can be made possible with the utilization of a scuba tanks. Also known as diving cylinders by the Britons, scuba tank or scuba cylinder is a storage tank of air which has a standard pressure of 3000 Psi.

The tank has a standard of 80 cubic feet of air. However, the amount of pressure and the sizes of the tank vary on every scuba diver. Average adults usually settle for the standard fill of air of the tank. Smaller tanks are alright for teens or petite women. However, in large men, bigger tanks are needed for they require more intake of air in proportion to their size. Other factors for determining the size of tanks to be used by every scuba diver are fitness levels and lung size. Professional scuba divers and instructors have the know-how in determining for the size of scuba tanks to use in every person who wants to engage in scuba diving.

Air is filled in scuba tanks which are made from either of the two materials: steel or aluminum. Aluminum scuba tanks are normally used and are less expensive to acquire. Probable denting and wearing of the tanks have made it less advantageous to use. Dive shops usually have aluminum tanks. Used scuba tanks are leased to divers for use depending on the agreement.

Scuba steel tank is more durable yet more expensive than the aluminum material. Proper maintenance of the tank is important to prolong its existence and prevent it from corrosion. If properly cared, steel scuba tank may live longer than the diver.

Scuba tanks are used in scuba diving together with the scuba regulator. One unit of air-filled scuba tank is used by divers when diving in tropical areas. Recreational divers usually settle for one scuba tank. In colder areas and deep sea-diving where decompression exists, two tanks should be carrying with by the divers to help them navigate underwater longer.

What if a diver is running out of one air-filled tank? A reserve tank popularly called as pony tank should be brought with the diver during dive sessions as an emergency tank. The use of pony tank limits the diver to dive longer and is put on as an emergency breathing apparatus.

Scuba tank explosion is likely to occur to some tanks that are not properly maintained and calibrated. Safety in scuba tanks is imperative. Annual inspection of tanks is mandatory. The test usually includes the removal of valve to check for signs of damage or corrosion. Scuba tank hydro test should be done every five years to determine the ability of the tank to incorporate pressurized gas. A stamp is made on the tank’s shoulder indicating the date of testing. The stamp is an indicator of the quality of the tank when choosing and acquiring a scuba tank.

Another safety measure to prevent the tank from possible explosion is by not emptying it. A pressure of 100 Psi inside the tank is enough to prevent moisture build up in the tank.
Valves should be closed so moisture is impossible to get inside in the possibility of a tank to be empty. When inspecting and refilling a tank especially when it is personally owned, it is advisable to bring the matter to the professionals.

A few cases have been recorded on the possibility of the tank to explode. Damage of properties and other assets have occurred. Damages are liable to the careless owner of the tank. A tank explosion can jeopardize a person’s life.

It is essential to settle for a lower cost of maintaining the tank than covering up for more obligations of the aftermath.