An air receiver is installed in each space that houses air compressors (except centrifugal and rotary lobe types of air compressors). A COMPRESSED AIR RECEIVER is an air storage tank. If demand is greater than the compressor capacity, some of the stored air is supplied to the system. If demand is less than the compressor capacity, the excess is stored in the receiver or accumulator until the pressure is raised to its maximum setting. At that time, the compressor unloads or stops. Thus, in a compressed air system, the receiver minimizes pressure variations in the system and supplies air during peak demand. This capability serves to minimize the start-stop cycling of air compressors. Air receivers may be mounted horizontally or vertically. Vertically mounted receivers have convex bottoms that permit proper draining of accumulated moisture, oil, and foreign matter. All receivers have fittings, such as inlet and outlet connections and drain connections and valves. They have connections for an operating line to compressor regulators, pressure gauges, and relief valves (set at approximately 12 percent above the normal working pressure of the receiver). They also have manhole plates (depending on the size of the receiver). The discharge line between the compressor and the receiver is as short and straight as possible. This design eliminates vibrations caused by pulsations of air and reduces pressure losses caused by friction.

In high-pressure air systems, air receivers are called AIR FLASKS. Air flasks are usually cylindrical in shape, with belled ends and female-threaded necks. The flasks are constructed in shapes that will conform to the hull curvature for installation between hull frames. One or more air flasks connected together constitute an AIR BANK.