Two different sizing tasks
To bridge a peak, the required volume follows from the difference between demand and simultaneous delivery, peak duration and usable pressure band. Sizing by the number of starts or cycles is a different task requiring control characteristics and allowable frequencies. One formula cannot be used for both without additional information.
Location matters too
A receiver before the dryer and one after treatment have different effects on instantaneous dryer flow and available treated-air storage. Consider connection pressure losses, water drainage, service access and documentation. Inspections and checks depend on the particular equipment and operation, not just a capacity calculation.
What to check in practice
- Measure the magnitude and duration of the demand peak.
- Determine the minimum permissible pressure at the consumer, including losses.
- Assess replenishment between peaks and the required receiver fittings.
Example scenario
At equal temperature, a reference of 1 bar(a), a delivery shortfall of 1 m³/min for 30 seconds and an allowable pressure drop of 1 bar give an ideal storage volume of 0.5 m³. This excludes temperature dynamics and losses; it is not a structural pressure-vessel design.
What to watch out for
- Selecting volume solely from motor kW.
- Counting the entire pressure band even when its lower pressure is insufficient for the consumer.
- Treating a capacity calculation as pressure safety verification.
Will a receiver directly at the problem machine help?
It can help with a brief peak if it can refill between demands and the connection is not too restrictive. With prolonged demand or permanently narrow pipework, supply and distribution must also be addressed.