The air receiver must in general be sized according the variation in the consumption demand

the compressor size and the modulation strategy. In general it is possible to calculate the maximum consumption in the system by summarizing the demand of each consumer. The summarized consumption must be multiplied with a usage factor ranging 0.1 – 1 depending on the system.

 

In practice it is common that the manufacturer use standardized receivers for specific compressor models based on their know-how.

 

Note that in a compressed air system the pipe work also makes the purpose of a buffered volume.

 

The receiver volume may be calculated with the formula

t = V (p1 - p2) / C pa        

where

V = volume of the receiver tank (cu ft)

t = time for the receiver to go from upper to lower pressure limits (min)

C = free air needed (scfm)

pa= atmosphere pressure (14.7 psia)

p1 = maximum tank pressure (psia)

p2 = minimum tank pressure (psia)

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It is also common to size receivers

to 1 gallon for each ACFM (Actual Cubic Feet per Minute), or 4 gallons per compressor hp (horse power)