Choosing the right type of compressed air piping for your compressed air system can seem daunting as there are many options available, so we’ve compressed the options into this handy little guide!
Aluminum Piping
Highly recommended.
These push-to-connect systems provide a quick and easy installation with no need to crimp or groove. They are simple to install and modify, and don’t need anchoring or support. No special tools are needed for assembly and installation, no hot-work permit is required, and they can be installed without brazing, threading or welding.
Aluminum piping systems come in many sizes, pressure ranges and fittings. They are lightweight and corrosion-free and are highly resistant to leaks. There is no need to worry about flakes or other particles coming off the pipe and harming equipment or employees. The biggest risk with aluminum piping systems is that they’re more susceptible than other metals to physical impact. They also have a lower melting point (1,221 °F) than copper (1,984 °F) and steel (2,500 °F), making them unsuitable for some high-heat applications.
Stainless Steel Piping
Recommended.
Stainless steel pipes are highly durable and corrosion-resistant, with no risk of degradation to the interior or exterior of the pipes and are also highly aesthetic. They are a good choice for applications where it’s essential to keep rust and particles out of the air stream.
Most people are familiar with how to install the pipes and fittings, but with stainless steel, it is a time consuming and expensive process. Stainless steel pipes are difficult to cut and work with, requiring specialized installers and tools. They also have a tendency to freeze up, are just as heavy as traditional iron pipes, and are prone to the same leakage around joints and welds.
Copper Piping
Recommended for clean air.
Copper pipes are often recommended for clean, oil-free air because of their antimicrobial and anti-corrosion properties. They are aesthetically pleasing, are lighter than iron, and are easier to install than stainless steel. Copper piping systems use readily available fittings and standard joining techniques.
However, copper pipes have high material and labor costs. They need to be soldered to connect the pipe sections and fittings together without leaks, which requires skilled installers.
Semi-Flexible Compound Piping
Not recommended for commercial applications.
Semi-flexible compound pipes combine lightweight aluminum with an internal and external polymer coating, delivering air efficiently while resisting corrosion. These pipes come in long, continuous lengths with minimal fittings needed, and keep their shape after bending – allowing for easy installation along the twists and turns of the line. They also use compression fittings, eliminating threading and the risk of leaks. Semi-flexible piping systems are lighter than copper, are compatible with common compressor oils, and require no expensive tools to install.
However, semi-flexible compound pipes tend to look messy so are not aesthetically pleasing, and they are not as durable and are more susceptible to damage than other piping materials.
Black Iron Piping
Not recommended.
Iron piping systems used to be the go-to in the industry, as they’re widely available, strong and durable, and most people know how to install it.
However, that strength and durability come with a price, as iron pipes are heavy and must be anchored in place, and are hard to cut or join, requiring a skilled installer. Iron piping is vulnerable to corrosion, which can damage tools with rust contamination, and the joints and welds are often a source of leaks. Installing iron piping is time consuming, and the system will require depressurizing for any changes made in the future.
Galvanized Piping
Not recommended.
Galvanized piping is often used for water distribution and general plumbing but is not recommended for compressed air. The coating will resist moisture but will degrade over time and flake off into the system. These flakes can cause blockages or fouling in the air lines, damage tools, and even cause bodily harm when exiting a blow gun.
PVC Piping
Not recommended.
PVC pipes are widely used for general plumbing, but are banned by OSHA for compressed air systems as they get brittle over time and can burst from pressure, causing bodily injury. Although cheap, lightweight, non-corrosive and easy to install, PVC pipes are not worth it for the safety risk.
ABS, PE and HDPE Piping
Not recommended.
These plastic piping systems are ok for use with compressed air, but not recommended. They are lightweight and easy to install, with no special tools, bracing or supports required. ABS, PE and HDPE are corrosion-resistant, so there’s not a risk of particles getting into the airstream. However, the cement used for connectors may be more prone to failure and leaks than welded metal piping, and even the highest-quality plastic pipes will not match the strength and durability of metal piping.
There you have it! Your comprehensive guide of compressed air piping material types.
Check out our pneumatic piping systems blog for more information!
Want to learn more about compressed air systems, or talk to a tech about repairing, upgrading or replacing your current system? Reach out today, we’d love to hear from you!