Compressed Air Piping Material

Plastic compressed air piping is cheap lightweight easy to install and non corrosive.

Compressed air piping material. May 15th 2020 at. The compressed air piping materials can be divided into two basic types. Plus osha has banned the use of pvc piping for compressed air in above ground applications. These failures combined with air under pressure are potentially fatal due to the airborne razor sharp shrapnel.

Nowadays there are many different steel and non steel types of piping. Question is there any benefit to using 1 1 4 copper pipe instead of 3 4 pipe for my air lines. Hardware stores will cut and thread the ends for you. Non metal pipe is commonly called thermoplastic pipe.

It is also an osha violation to use pvc for compressed air distribution which means you could incur a hefty fine. Using pvc for compressed air is a safety liability you don t want to gamble on. For steel pipes we have plain steel stainless steel copper and galvanized steel pipes that are often used. However just as hearts can fail due to clogged arteries compressors can fail due to poor piping.

Measure the pipe runs and buy exact lengths. Owners of compressed air piping systems tend to focus on the compressor and think of the piping as less of a concern. It can be installed with no special tools such as welders threaders etc. Iron pipe is one of the oldest compressed air piping materials used.

Black iron pipe creates rust silt and sediment which can ruin your equipment. In the old days compressed air pipes where made of plain steel. If you don t want to solder use galvanized or black steel pipe. Iron pipe is available in galvanized or raw black form.

Installation is straightforward or can be done by a plumber and fittings are available at your local hardware store. Choosing compressed air line piping materials here s a long detailed and well informed discussion about air supply pipe materials sizing and layout. It is lighter than most metal and easier to handle. Cleaner than black iron pipe.

Here are some of the most common materials used for compressed air piping and the pros and cons of each. For plastic there is a whole range of plastic types all with their own characteristics. I mean besides the obvious storage increase. Unlike gas and water lines air compression lines don t require perfect joints so don t worry if they leak a tiny bit.

The presence of air compressor oils in the line and heat from the compressed air accelerates the degradation of pvc. As with most decisions the choice in piping material comes down to tradeoffs between cost performance longevity and aesthetics. Rapidair products deliver safe compressed air. Non metal pipe commonly called plastic pipe has been offered for many years as compressed air piping because.