Bladder Tanks Key Terms

Learn the key words and phrases of bladder tanks

By Jess Buskirk

From storing petroleum to dispensing drinking water, bladder tanks have their place in many industries. Whether you're searching for small residential bladder tanks for a new construction project or are in need of a large industrial bladder tank for on-site storage, knowing the key terms for the tanks and their accessories can simplify your purchase.

Pounds per square inch (PSI)

In layman's terms, the pounds per square inch (PSI) of a bladder tank is the amount of air pressure inside the tank's membrane. The PSI is measured with an air pressure gauge.
Try: Read through examples of how PSI affects the function of bladder expansion tanks at Armstrong.

Reverse osmosis

Reverse osmosis is a method of filtering water by using pressure to force the liquid through a membrane. The membrane traps pollutants so only clean water passes through the membrane.
Try: For an example of a reverse osmosis bladder tank, visit WaterFilters.net. To learn more about reverse osmosis bladder tanks ideal for industrial use, read through the product specifications at Instawares Restaurant Supply.

Cycle stop valve

A cycle stop valve prevents a bladder tank's pump from cycling needlessly, which can decrease the lifespan of the pump. This type of valve, which is often referred to as simply a CSV, also maintains the tank's pressure while the pump is in use.
Try: To learn more about cycle stop valves, visit Pumps and Tanks. Water Online offers a simple explanation of how cycle stop valves work.

Pre-charged air pressure

A pre-charged air pressure bladder tank is shipped from the manufacturer with the proper PSI. A pre-charged tank eliminates the guesswork of preparing the tank for use.
Try: For an example of a pre-charged air pressure tank, visit The Tank Depot.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) sets standards for bladder tanks, among other mechanical products. An ASME bladder tank will comply with public building codes.
Try: Read more about the ASME at Virginia Tech. To see examples of non-ASME bladder tanks, which are acceptable for residential use, visit the Wessels Company.

Waterlogged

A bladder tank becomes waterlogged when there is too much water within the tank for it to operate. A waterlogged tank can lead to pump burnout, tank failure and all the issues that come with stagnant water.
Try: Read about troubleshooting a waterlogged bladder tank at WaterTechOnline.com.