Pressure and Temperature
When SCUBA tanks are filled, the increasing pressure inside the cylinder produces an increase in temperature.
Water as a Coolant
The water surrounding the SCUBA tank conducts heat away from the cylinder better than air.
Reduction in Temperature Rise
This transfer of heat away from the SCUBA tank reduces the rate at which the temperature will rise during the filling process.
Maximum Fill Rate
Reducing the rate of temperature increase allows the maximum fill rate to be increased, shortening the amount of time needed to fill the SCUBA tank.
Warm Tank vs. Cool Tank
A warm tank holds less air at a given pressure than a cool tank at the same pressure. This means as the tank cools, the pressure of the air inside of the SCUBA tank will also decrease. Controlling the temperature of the tank during the fill process can increase the amount of air available during the next dive.
Article Written By David Chandler
David Chandler has been a freelance writer since 2006 whose work has appeared in various print and online publications. A former reconnaissance Marine, he is an active hiker, diver, kayaker, sailor and angler. He has traveled extensively and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida where he was educated in international studies and microbiology.
