Compressed air piping is a vital element of any compressed air distribution system. Without proper sizing and design, delivery of compressed air can be inefficient and costly.
When selecting a pipe size for air transportation, its flow volume in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) and distance must be taken into consideration. A smaller diameter pipe will carry less air at an effective loss of one percent when compared to its larger counterpart on the same length.
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Copper
Copper is an ideal material for compressed air piping due to its lightweight nature, durability and resistance to corrosion. Furthermore, copper requires minimal installation time and costs-saving benefits that companies will appreciate in the long run.
Copper pipes have the unique capacity to withstand higher pressures than other pipe types, making them the perfect fit for your system. Plus, copper comes in various sizes so you can find the ideal size to suit your needs.
To determine which copper pipe size is appropriate for your system, measure the maximum cfm and minimum operating pressure of your compressor. Doing this will let you know if your pipes are too small or large, which could negatively affect performance.
Another crucial factor to consider is how many tools and machines will be connected to the pipes. The more machines attached, the shorter its lifespan will be.
Finally, be sure to verify the temperature rating of your pipes. If they become too hot, they could crack or break easily – something you want to avoid if you want your air compressor running efficiently.
Once you know which pipe type to use, it’s time to select the appropriate fittings for your installation. There are various options available such as brass, stainless steel, aluminum and more; just make sure they are compatible with the pipe you pick!
Selecting the correct pipe for your project can make a substantial impact on the quality of air you produce. It also helps keep your air compressor running optimally, avoiding power loss or contamination.
Soldering copper pipe together is the most reliable method, and the most efficient is with a propane or MAPP torch. To clean the outside of the copper pipe, use a sandpaper cloth; additionally, you’ll need a fitting brush to thoroughly clean inside copper fittings.
Additionally, you’ll need a spray bottle of water to keep the area around your work dry and safe. You may also wrap a towel around any fittings if desired to shield them from heat generated by your soldering torch.
Iron
Air compressor piping materials come in various lengths and widths; copper pipe is one of the most popular choices and can be purchased at local hardware stores in 10-foot sections. Unfortunately, copper pipe has a tendency to corrode over time which could lead to various issues.
Another popular choice for air compressor piping is black iron pipe. While this option may be slightly cheaper than copper pipe, it may corrode over time if not properly maintained.
Black iron pipe offers significant advantages due to its strength. It can withstand enormous amounts of pressure and will remain reliable throughout many years of usage without experiencing any major issues.
However, threading the pipes together can be a bit of a challenge as it requires some experience and special tools. You will need a vise, pipe cutter, and thread threader. Furthermore, apply thread tape or pipe dope on the male ends of each pipe so that their connections remain tight.
Ductile iron is the same basic material as cast iron, but it boasts significantly greater tensile strength. This product is produced by centrifugally spinning molten iron in high-quality steel molds, then adding magnesium to transform its lamellar form into a spheroidal shape – increasing tensile strength by over 50% and improving ductility further.
Ductile iron has its advantages, but it’s still more expensive than cast iron. On average, ductile iron will cost around 20% more than black iron pipe; however, due to its longer lifespan and energy-efficiency, this material could prove more cost-effective over the long term.
Ductile iron is not only suitable for compressed air systems, but can also be utilized in water supply infrastructure. As a natural and secure material, ductile iron helps communities save money on maintenance and repair over the lifespan of a pipe, as it’s up to 90% recyclable – making it an eco-friendly choice that ensures clean drinking water delivery in the future.
Polyethylene
Polyethylene (PE) is a popular piping material used in compressed air systems due to its lightweight nature and resistance to corrosives agents, making it the ideal choice for air compressor applications.
Pipe is both cost-effective and straightforward to install, plus it tends to last a long time. If you opt for plastic piping, make sure you purchase a PE resin that has been specifically developed for air/gas applications.
Copper piping, although less common than metal pipes, offers excellent strength and longevity. It is highly corrosion-resistant and delivers clean air free from particulates. Unfortunately, copper piping tends to be more costly than other options and soldering joints can be tricky; thus it should only be used with low pressure equipment.
When selecting the size pipe for your system, take into account the minimum operating pressure of your compressor and its outlet connections. Furthermore, consider the layout of your piping system; this will guarantee there is minimal air leakage between the compressor and its intended point of use.
Once you understand how much moisture is present in your system, it’s important to regulate its level. Moisture is often an unavoidable byproduct of air compression, so taking steps to regulate humidity within pipes can ensure no adverse effects occur to the quality of compressed air.
Furthermore, the temperature of compressed air should be taken into account. If it’s too high, it may damage pipes and the compressor; conversely, if it’s too low, lubricating oil in the compressor could leak out and create serious problems.
For further details on the various piping types and their advantages, speak with an air compressor specialist. They can assist in determining which type of pipe is most suitable for your requirements and providing guidance throughout the installation process.
No matter which pipe you select, installation must be conducted correctly and safely to guarantee your system functions optimally. These include:
Polypropylene
When selecting air piping, it’s essential to select the correct materials. Doing so will guarantee your compressor runs optimally and prevent any air blockages or clogging that could cause malfunctioning of the unit.
Pipes for air compressors can be made out of a variety of materials, including polypropylene. This versatile material has many uses and applications and boasts excellent durability and long-term stability.
When selecting pipes for your air compressor, it is essential to take into account both its maximum cfm requirements and minimum operating pressure. Doing this will enable you to select a size that will enable your machine to perform at its optimum efficiency level.
The type of material that you choose for your piping will have an impact on the cost. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic piping is much cheaper than metal that needs welding, while also being easier and cheaper to install and requiring less upkeep compared to metal needing welding.
Another factor influencing the price of a pipe is its durability. The more durable the pipe, the longer it will last – especially when exposed to abrasion and other environmental conditions.
Polypropylene pipes are also resistant to UV degradation and oxidation, making them an ideal choice for outdoor areas that may be exposed to the sun’s damaging rays.
Easy to handle and clean, this material is resistant to abrasion as well as damage from moisture, oils, sand and dirt.
PP is one of the most widely used thermoplastic materials, used in various applications such as packaging and other items. It can be shaped using several methods like extrusion or injection molding. Furthermore, PP can also be manufactured with additives to improve its chemical and physical characteristics.