best pipe for air compressor lines

2021/05/21

My compressor is located in an unheated environment, and the main line then enters the heated workspace. But youre right, it has become very expensive, and even though there are other alternatives to sweating the copper, that would be my first choice for putting copper lines and fittings together. Copper pipes are also naturally antibacterial. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2020 Ren Engineering Solutions. Black pipe can be great for high-pressure ranges and high temperatures. Black iron piping has long been considered a standard material for compressed air delivery, but I believe this is rather outdated. Black pipe for air compressors is heavy and requires pipe threading equipment. Most likely the lowest cost of ownership compared to the other types of piping, especially if changes to the system configuration are required. Stainless steel piping can present a challenge when adding drops or expanding the system, and these areas are best planned during the initial installation. How Much Oil Does An Air Compressor Need? They do not become degraded by contact with oils and lubricants and thus are less likely to warp than plastic piping. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It can have an initial lower cost versus some of the other options; however, with its tendency to rust and corrode over time, the initial low cost may not be beneficial. The major problems faced in a compressed air system include: To mitigate these problems, selecting the correct pipe material for your application is key. The corrosion and rust can cause tools to be destroyed, raise electric bills, and contaminate your system. This pipe is a good quality and reliable choice of compressed air since the pipes are strong and corrosion resistant. Air leak OMG someone call 911, I mean come on. Whether you intend to DIY with aluminum piping or hire an experienced installation team, you want the best return on your investment. Many elements can induce corrosion. What Type of Pipe Should I Use for My Air Compressor? If its installed properly then you should get many years of use out of it before there is a problem. Pipe class is a classification of pipes and components that can be used at a specific pressure and temperature. Ultimately, what pipe you use for your compressed air pipes is up to you, your budget, your installation-skill-level, and how much air you need for your equipment. The moment it is threaded, the galvanization has been compromised and breeched. The following are the most common plastic air compressor piping options that meet this criteria: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a suitably lightweight and easy to work with material that requires no special bracing or supports. Galvanized piping is, Black pipe is the most commonly used pipe, The latest technology are push-to-connect aluminum piping systems for compressed air lines (such as, Fast installation no welding, soldering or other time-consuming methods of attachment; just push the pipe into a fitting until it bottoms out, Non-corrosive provides clean air for years to come, prolonging the working life of components in the system, Very adaptable easy and fast to change (reroute) or add new components and drops, even under pressure, Higher up-front cost of materials (compared to black pipe) may discourage some from exploring this option, but the difference in cost of material is recovered by savings on labor during (typical) installation (parts are no good when theyre sitting in a pile on the floor). This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The natural polyethylene air tube is rated to handle industrial air pressure in the 120+ PSI range in normal ambient temperature environments. While PVC pipes are cheap, easy to install and flexible, these pipes pose a great danger not only to your compressed air system but to people working around as well. This iron pipe has been in use for decades. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly.

Rapidair are leaders in compressed air tubing and piping, and their Rapidair flagship range is comprised of nylon pneumatic tubing.

Feel free to comment or ask questions on pipe material selection or compressed air systems. All fittings are aluminum constructed. The installation requires welding and brazing. Boasting all brass nickel plated fittings. If that step unplanned during the installation cutting the pipe will be required. The stream of air produced from such pipes can be used in food and pharmaceutical industries. The pipe is available in a variety of schedules and can be sourced locally. Leaks consume 20 25% of the total compressor output. Metal pipe like black iron pipe tends to be the most common and universally used pipe for compressed air systems. Again, thank you very much for chiming in. These pipes are lightweight making installation works easier. During the installation, take the time and determine if there will be a potential for system expansion. If you have any questions or comments to make on the best pipeline materials for air compressor systems, please add it here along with photos if applicable to help others help you! Compressed Air Dryers Guide Which Type of Air Dryer Do I Need? How to select the best piping for your compressed air system. There are many different types of pipes that can be used in a compressed air system depending on your application. Compressed air systems tend to have moisture and rust in black iron pipe is inevitable. Over time the galvanized layer flakes off and the pipe inevitably rusts. The debris carried by the compressed air can damage pneumatic cylinders and even cause bodily harm when coming out of a blow gun.

Want to brag about your gorgeous compressor rebuild? This can cause delays in the process if you have to make multiple trips to the hardware store for forgotten or overlooked items. This is currently the compressed air piping of choice. Why consider them, then? Before you take what might be a dangerous decision, I recommend that you note the pipe manufacturers name off the pipe, email them this same question, and keep their answer on file if they say yes. In this manner, its easy to trace a specific air line from the source to its air component, and thus make it easier to determine if there is a problem with air flow to that unit. I cant imagine how and why anyone would apply this type of weak and inherently flawed piping. This would certainly seem to increase moisture issues, but to date,it has not been a problem. Plumbing a machine with dozens of air valves and air cylinders with colored tubing makes problem diagnosis easier on a larger machine. I am near to the point where I will have time to run pipes to carry my compressed air around to all parts of my home shop. Youre right the bottom line is in air quality. Expanding the system after the fact can be a daunting task if the plan wasnt set in motion during the initial process. I do not recommend PVC pipe for compressed air, it could be catastrophic. The drops and or T fittings will need to be prepared during the initial installation. if your just moving air and quality does not matter then by all means use galvanized.

These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Compressed Air Information, Difficult to amend the system without experienced plumber, Reduced strength and durability compared to metal pipes, Can warp under direct sunlight (not suitable outdoors). You know, I dont know of anyone thats using galvanized pipe as a compressed air line. Your email address will not be published. Compressed Air System Design and Installation. Stainless steel pipe is a highly durable and longly used option that prevents corrosion. Often, when people are presented with different choices, they tend to go for the option that costs less at face value without consideration for the cost implications in the future. If your installation calls for high pressures and or high temperatures, it will serve your installation better to find an alternative pipe for your system. These flakes can also be a safety concern when blown out of the lines at high speeds at the end application. Related: Reducing Compressed Air Consumption. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Despite the best efforts at drying the compressed air, some moisture will still condense in those pipes, and rusting will certainly occur. Many service technicians consider Black pipe installations to be back-breaking work. The pipes are also relatively affordable as compared to Stainless Steel. The three pipe examples below are all valid options. I know places completely piped in galvanized pipe with no problems because it is used for just cleaning off equipment. Any condensate within the pipe will not result in corrosion. There are several options when it comes to using plastic for compressed air piping. Metal pipes are typically stronger and more resistant to blowouts and cracks. Copper has the same corrosion problems that galvanized has when exposed to moisture it oxidizes and pinholes develop. And once a pin-hole (or even smaller holes) has been established, the corrosion starts immediately. We use many different machines, and a vast array of hand tools. For example, you might consider making the cylinder extend air lines one color, the retract another. I appreciate any input from folks that have done more reading or have more experience than me. Its best to consider all of these factors before choosing the product that is best for your installation. ABS is good at handling severely cold temperatures but it is liable to warping under exposure to direct sunlight which indicates it is not suitable for outdoor use. There are many materials to consider when setting up your compressed air network. no longer any protection, since the galvanization has been stripped and removed at the weakest point the threads! I guess the toss up is do you get better quality air from galvanized, with the risk of galvanization coming off inside the pipe, or from black pipe knowing that rust will develop for sure, and that rust will flow down the line to your application. These pipes are however expensive and require soldering by highly skilled personnel to produce good quality installation work. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. For expanding the system in the future, much like black pipe, it is best to plan and prepare during the initial process. We recently got a client who needed installation of a compressed air system for his printing machines. PVC and CPVC piping is not approved by OSHA for compressed air systems so they should certainly be avoided. Aluminum pipes are also resistant to corrosion and have a smooth inner surface. Ive also included some negative user comments on compressed air piping materials to follow. The multi layered polymer system is also available for cost savings. Clean copper pipe can deliver a high quality of air. Installation conditions could play a role in the effectiveness of your system and life cycle of the pipe. The degradation makes the pipe brittle and easy to crack when under pressure. There could be hidden costs associated with adding these at a later time. PVCs burst threshold lowers the hotter it gets, and I believe that Fayetteville NC might get the odd warmish day? Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Ingersoll Rand sells the system as SimplAir. See photos below: We hope that you can now select the correct material for your application. The details of the installation are essential to ensure a safe and efficient system. Theres also PEX pipe for air line which is cross-linked Polyethylene and though this is typically used for water, PEX-AL-PEX is designed for compressed air system. I have my metal fab shop piped with nothing but galvanized. I would strongly caution against using PVC to plumb your airlines. Therefore, I wondered if they can be used for my compressed air system. I had planned to use rigid copper, as I know the manufacturers recommend against using PVC. I am currently using PVC (I know I know, not recommended) and I want to upgrade, however I do not want the cost of copper nor do I have the skills needed anyway, and black pipe rusts like crazy. about-air-compressors.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. When I do find minor excess moisture in the system, its usually my failure to drain the dryer. Using AirNet aluminum piping makes your system leak free since the fittings have a push fit connection to the pipes. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. If you bend it, it tends to leave a permanent kink and a weak spot in the tubing, and it is not abrasive resistant, meaning you would not use polyethylene tube as an airline to an air tool. Or, if you have pneumatic logic on a machine, you might make all of the control air lines one color, and the power air lines another. In compressed air systems, the air must be compressed to be delivered with enough volume, quality and pressure in order to power the components that use the air. If your coming from outside to inside then maybe use copper until you enter the inside. For safety and overall performance, the flow, the temperature, and the pressure should be reviewed and discussed thoroughly before choosing a type of pipe. PVC pipes experience degradation overtime when used for compressed air systems. May require specialised installers with the right tools and training to be able to install the network. Be blissful then, friend. Also keep in mind the environment it is installed in. If not copper, opt for rubber/vinyl (not just PVC) hose with barbed fittings. Bottom line dont use PVC for compressed air pipes. A frequent question regarding air compressors is, What type of pipe should I use for my air compressor? Below are the most common options: In summary, there are many choices when it comes to piping for your compressed air system. Aluminium compressed air piping systems are highly modular and can be installed with ease using standard fittings, rigid aluminium pip can be plumed around an entire facility without a single bend. Required fields are marked *. Yet there are new plastics being developed that might, and I emphasize might be suitable. Consider the environment the piping system will be installed in. Plan accordingly for future needs, and have a plan for the outcome. There is. US Sales:sales@compressornow.com|Phone:(888) 727-8714 | Open M-F 5am5pm PST |Intl Requests:international@compressornow.com, Compressor Now Alternative Filter Elements, Atlas Copcos compressed air piping network. Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. The purpose of air pipes is to carry and deliver air to the points of application. Probably the least common choices of material for compressed air systems due to their high costs. https://us.fscurtis.com/support/distributor-finder/. We have Ranked the Top 5 Compressed Air Pipe types. When using GI pipe, it is advisable to keep moisture out of the system using a dryer and to use the proper pipe class. These cookies do not store any personal information. For my home shop or for a small plant, I would first consider using polyethylene tube to plumb all the airlines. However, PEX and CPVC are both considered safe to use inside houses for waterlines. Boasts similar benefits to black iron piping with the addition of rusting not being an issue.

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It works well in corrosive environments. This version contains a layer of aluminium between two layers of PEX, boosting its corrosion resistance and strength traits. If you are in the room when a plastic pipe full of compressed air explodes and it sends shards of plastic into you and those around you I dont know, wouldnt you consider that the worst that catastrophic? Note: As ambient temperatures rise, the pressure rating of plastic pipes drops dramatically, and they may quickly fall below standard industrial compressed air pressures. If soldered properly, the copper fittings and joints should never leak, giving the user the potential to save the energy costs. Find your next system below listed in alphabetical order. This article will provide you with all the necessary information on the possible materials that could be very well suited to your piping system! Having said that, I would most likely use copper next time, its just easier. Most people prefer it since installation is easy, the fittings are readily available and cheap. Metal piping may be more expensive, and more difficult to install but it will certainly offer you benefits potentially worth those additional costs. All rights reserved. And then there is the real hard issue of how does one inspect the surface that is really supposed to be doing the protecting: the internal pipe surface! There is no way on this earth that anyone can guarantee that there is no defect or flaw in a given galvanization hot-dipped or not hot-dipped. The following are the most common metal air compressor piping options: Each material boasts its own set of advantages and disadvantages which well now look into in more depth. mk5 hoses 9l It is also more expensive than polyethylene tube. In that way, you have redress should the plastic fail. Galvanized pipe not as good as it once was? Many older installations use it as it is able to hold up to a lot of abuse due to its strength and durability traits. If you can help it, its best to steer clear of black pipe as well you will save time, money, and headache by avoiding these options. When considering installing a piping system for compressed air, there are many options and important factors to consider. Aluminium3. Also available in Stainless Steel. Though theyre more expensive, and can take longer to install, theyre likely to last a longer time. If you take your time and consider all the options you will feel confident in your decision and see the difference in your bottom line. Copper pipe for air compressors can be purchased in standard pressures and for standard temperatures. I advise against using PVC and CPVC plastic pipe for plumbing compressed air regardless of the source. Aircom offers a variety of fittings in aluminum and polymer.

I plan to use no pressure higher than about 150 pounds psi. Colored forms of P.E.

A drawback now is that copper prices continue to rise, making an all-copper installation quite expensive. tube get more expensive and are sometimes harder to find. Is most certainly the longest-lasting steel and iron alternative but comes with being the most expensive. The pipes can withstand maximum working pressures of up to 50bar. By the way, Id much rather sweat copper than thread pipe. The alloy will not corrode, plus guaranteed leak free. Many options can fit your installation.

- Compressor Now Parts Sales. However, whether at home or in the plant, I personally would not recommend black pipe unless I absolutely had to. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. If you just using the the air to blow off and clean machinery the galvanized is a perfectly good solution not to mention cost effective. The skill level is beginner, and most fittings are push to fit and connect. No tools required other than the cutting tool. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Tony, Im new to this whole compressor pipe world, but in doing some reading I came across this quote on the TP Tools website. ABS minimizes the risk of particulates making its way into the air flow due to its strong corrosion resistance. You must ensure the material is durable enough to stand up to the years of use and will not get damaged by contact with oils and lubricants inside your compressed air system. there is almost no rust (keep in mind theyre exposed to rain), I do have some newer pipes too but I dont keep them outside because they rust almost instantly when exposed to moisture, rain etc., stuff just isnt as good as it was in the past. The initial price point is higher than the black pipe but lower than the aluminum systems. By continuing to use this website, you accept the use of cookies. The rule of thumb would be to do your research, find the best fit for your budget and system requirements. For the installation, there will need to be an experienced installer available for consulting or hired to do the entire installation. Everyone in the shop came running thinking a car had exploded. Atlas Copcos compressed air piping network is based on its quick fit fittings easy and fast installation and offers a 10 year warranty. I also know that PVC is not used inside houses for waterlines.

I am recommending you to not use any plastic pipe for compressed air unless you contact the manufacturer of that plastic pipe, and get approval in writing from them, that they recommend the use of their pipe for compressed air.

There are precautions you should take if using ABS, especially when testing, this is an absolute no go. Coming back for additions can be difficult and require skill to cut and re-weld the existing pipe. I know that this product is not approved for use in every state, province, or country, so please ensure you check carefully. Aluminum is able to provide cleaner air than alternatives like black iron compressed air pipe. A favorite for its ergonomic end use products. To learn more about air compressor piping material and the critical role of piping in your compressed air system, locate and contact your distributor at https://us.fscurtis.com/support/distributor-finder/. This versatility can make finding fittings locally easy and ensure you have the correct fitment for your installation. The rust will then be carried on with the compressed air piping which will then damage pneumatic tools. And I suppose it is cheaper if a larger air main is needed. This will add to the overall budget for the entire job. In time, the rust scales will migrate to the air equipment and cause damage to them. Some harsh chemicals or fumes could harm the pipe. Polyurethane is sometimes used to plumb air to valves and air cylinders too, as it is softer, more malleable and able to be bent in tighter circles without kinking. Making it a popular choice for some, but if you ask the masses, they will and I will, advise against using galvanized steel. Outside or inside. Overall Aluminum is the Best Compressed Air Pipe for your new or existing compressed air network. Though, the soldering of joints can be consuming and requires skill, its high-quality and works very well. This will cause failures in valving, actuators & air tools. It is weak because it is totally susceptible to corrosion, flaking, and pin-hole defects depending on the skill with which it is dipped.

DeAnna Hagen, Channel Partner Manager Midwest Region. This system was specifically designed for the distribution of compressed air, inert gases and vacuum. It is resilient to water and oil, making stainless steel piping a top choice for corrosive environments and installations that require high purity of air quality. Aluminium being lightweight, corrosion resistant and more easily manipulated than most compressed air piping material alternatives makes it a leading choice in compressed air systems. From the information provided, we recommended and installed AirNet Aluminum piping. Nylon pneumatic tubing is a more expensive alternative to polyurethane, but comes with a range of enhanced capabilities like greater operating pressures and chemical compatibility. We do not recommend galvanized metal pipe, as galvanization can come off the inside of the pipe, clogging separators and regulators.. Though, copper aluminium and stainless steel are also great choices.Its possible to use an array plastic piping too, as long as theyre approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) because if theyre not, you could cause harm to yourself and the air system. They have different price points, different installation requirements, and options for future expansion. I have never professed to know it allmaybe it just sounds that way sometimes. Solved, Air Compressor Pressure Relief Valve Guide. As long as the pipe has the pressure rating (and it should), then the galvanized coating would stop rust inside the lines, making it, in my opinion, a good choice. My response: Mattthanks very much for your input! I judge galvanized piping as a totally wrong application that is doomed to failure. Wed welcome it here!, https://www.about-air-compressors.com/comments/feed/, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Difference between NPT and IM fitting measurement, Need air compressor to run 4 roofing nail guns, Porter Cable Air Compressors Information, Manuals, Service Locations, United States Air Compressor Company Compressors, Oilless Air Compressors vs Oil Compressors, Air Compressor Motor Guide HP, Types & Where to Buy Compressor Motors, Air Compressor Pressure Switch Troubleshooting & Buying Guide, What Size Air Compressor Do I Need? Galvanized coating resists moisture in compressed air but pieces of the coating will flake off and end up in your tools. The other issue with black pipes is that depending on the quality of welding the joints are prone to leaks. Knowing this information helps select the best solution, keep your team safe, and provide a longer service life. 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Regardless of your choice of pipe, you really need to have a filter / separator before each application that uses compressed air. The corrosion resistance found with aluminum piping is exceptional. It has been in place for close to 20 years, without any issues at all. Do not forget the multiple fittings needed for any installation. There are options of a bag & tag system that is pre-cleaned and specially packaged to prevent contamination during storage and shipping. Copper2. Regardless of the use of dryers and/or lubricators, there are small flakes of the coating that will flake off of the inside of the pipe. 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