Choosing The Right Scuba Cylinder For Your Diving Needs

The big, heavy tank we strap on before going on a scuba diving excursion is commonly referred to as a scuba cylinder or scuba tank, although the correct term is cylindrical pressure vessel. There are several different manufacturer of these scuba accessories that make them with almost identical features. This makes choosing one brand a confusing process. Divers have a choice of dive tanks that are made from either aluminum or steel. Also, different brands have different air capacities as well. The capacities typically range from 50 to 150 cubic feet. Also, they have different pressure ratings as well, ranging from 2,400 to 3,500 PSI. With so many different features to choose from, it's no wonder they can be so confusing.

Deciding whether to go with a tank made from either aluminum or steel is a choice that many people get stuck on. If you are planning on diving in the ocean, you must keep in mind that both steel and aluminum tanks can corrode in seawater. So, basing your decision on the corrosion factor is really a moot point. Contrary to popular belief, steel scuba tanks are actually lighter than those made from aluminum. The reason for this is due to the fact that steel is much stronger than aluminum. And since you can make a stronger tank with less steel than aluminum, the steel versions end up being slightly lighter. A typical tank that holds 80 cubic feet of air will be 30 pounds in steel and 35 pounds in aluminum.

Steel tanks tend to have a longer service life than those made from aluminum. Steel versions will last up to 40 years while most dive shops will refuse to refill an aluminum version that is older than 15 years. The only thing that aluminum has over steel is price. Aluminum tanks are usually more affordable than those made from steel.

One type of scuba cylinder that is increasing in popularity is the scuba pony tank. This small scuba tank holds very little air and is strapped onto the diver to be used in an emergency. The pony tank is very small and lightweight and usually has just a few minutes of air, just enough to get a diver out of a bad situation and safely to the surface.

When you do decide to go ahead and purchase your own scuba cylinder, you might want to consider going with one made from steel. Even though they are slightly more expensive than aluminum, those made from steel are typically preferred by professional divers.