Compressed Air Piping Materials

Unlike gas and water lines air compression lines don t require perfect joints so don t worry if they leak a tiny bit.

Compressed air piping materials. In our experience thermoplastic should be used only in some air compressor inlet piping situations which are not. Non metal pipe commonly called plastic pipe has been offered for many years as compressed air piping because. Measure the pipe runs and buy exact lengths. It is also an osha violation to use pvc for compressed air distribution which means you could incur a hefty fine.

If you don t want to solder use galvanized or black steel pipe. Non metal pipe is commonly called thermoplastic pipe. In the old days compressed air pipes where made of plain steel. These failures combined with air under pressure are potentially fatal due to the airborne razor sharp shrapnel.

As with most decisions the choice in piping material comes down to tradeoffs between cost performance longevity and aesthetics. Guide to compressed air piping systems last updated on. However these materials suffer from some significant limitations. However just as hearts can fail due to clogged arteries compressors can fail due to poor piping.

Hardware stores will cut and thread the ends for you. Iron pipe is one of the oldest compressed air piping materials used. May 15th 2020 at. The presence of air compressor oils in the line and heat from the compressed air accelerates the degradation of pvc.

Plastic compressed air piping is cheap lightweight easy to install and non corrosive. For plastic there is a whole range of plastic types all with their own characteristics. Black iron pipe creates rust silt and sediment which can ruin your equipment. For steel pipes we have plain steel stainless steel copper and galvanized steel pipes that are often used.

Using pvc for compressed air is a safety liability you don t want to gamble on. Compressed air piping materials can be divided into two basic types. Nowadays there are many different steel and non steel types of piping. 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. It can be installed with no special tools such as welders threaders etc. Moisture and oxygen in compressed air makes rust and corrosion inevitable. Installation is straightforward or can be done by a plumber and fittings are available at your local hardware store.

Rapidair products deliver safe compressed air. 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. Owners of compressed air piping systems tend to focus on the compressor and think of the piping as less of a concern.