Scuba Diving Tanks

Scuba Tanks Make S.C.U.B.A. Self-Contained

Scuba diving tanks are what make S.C.U.B.A. self-contained. They are an essential part of a diver's scuba equipment. These "cylinders" or "bottles", as they are sometimes called, carry a divers breathing air while underwater.


The history of scuba diving tanks can be traced back to 1865 when two Frenchmen devised a compressed air tank and primitive regulator that allowed divers to stay underwater without an airline to the surface.


If you are looking to purchase your own scuba tank, our tips will give you essential information to help you choose the dive tank that suits you and your diving needs.

Scuba Tank Features

When choosing a scuba tank, you will find they can be made of aluminum or steel. Steel scuba tanks are heavy and they will corrode in salt water. They must be well maintained to stay durable and ensure their long life.


Because aluminum is a lighter metal than steel, the walls of aluminum scuba tanks need to be thicker. This adds bulk and weight to an aluminum tank. They are also prone to damage.

A valve screws into the neck of a scuba tank. This valve provides the connection for a scuba regulator first stage. There are two commonly used valves for scuba tanks.


The most widely used valve is a "J" valve that attaches to the top of the pillar valve with a yoke assembly.


A DIN-type valve has a threaded opening where a DIN first stage can be screwed in. DIN valve regulators are built to handle high tank pressure of more than 3000 psi (206 bar).

Tips to Remember When Using Scuba Diving Tanks

1. If you rent your dive tanks always check for a current visual inspection sticker and a current hydrostatic test date. This date will be stamped at the top of the tank near the neck. A visual inspection is required every year and a hydrostatic test is required every one to five years, depending on the country you are in.
   
   
   
2. Always have your scuba tank filled will breathing air at a reputable dive shop. Dive shops should have their breathing air tested every three to four months and perform scheduled filter changes.
   
   
3. If you are running out of air before your buddies, consider using a bigger tank.
   
   
4. A scuba tank will affect your buoyancy underwater. As the air in the tank is emptied, the buoyancy of the tank will change. An aluminum scuba tank can become two to three pounds (one kilo) more positively buoyant towards the end of the dive. A steel scuba tank does just the opposite. In will become negative to neutrally buoyant.
   
   
5. If you are using an aluminum tank, you may find that you have to add some extra weight to keep from floating towards the end of the dive. A steel tank can allow you to carry less weight on a dive.
   
   
6. Always check to make sure there is a good o-ring in the valve. Without an o-ring or with a damaged o-ring, the valve will not seal.
   
   
   

Scuba Tank Maintenance and Storage

• Never empty all of the air out of your scuba tank. The absence of pressure in the tank will cause condensation and corrosion inside the tank.
  
  
• Rinse your tank with fresh water after every dive.
  
  
• Make sure the o-ring in the valve is good. Try not to close the valve too tightly. This may damage the high pressure seat inside the valve. This will cause the valve to leak.
  
  
• Never leave scuba tanks standing up unless they are secured in a scuba tank rack. If you lay them down, secure them so they do not roll around.
  
  
• Store your scuba tank in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight. Scuba diving tanks are full of high pressure gas, so handle with care.