What type of piping is needed for my compressed air system?

While many reciprocating air compressor users simply connect their air hose directly to the discharge valve on their compressor, some users prefer to install a downstream air system to route the compressed air to their tools and equipment.   

NO: PVC PIPING:

Unfortunately, although this type of piping is considered the most common because it is readily available, it could also be considered dangerous. PVC will eventually become brittle over time when used in a compressed air system leading to cracks, breaks or even shattering. These failures, combined with air under pressure, are potentially fatal due to the airborne, razor-sharp shrapnel. The use of PVC is an OSHA violation, which means you could incur a hefty fine.

NO: RUBBER HOSES PIPING:

Rubber hoses work as a temporary solution, but they are not energy or cost-efficient. When you use rubber hoses, you tend to have pressure drop due to the hose not being rigid. In addition, over time your hoses will start to create an odor because of the rubber breaking down, which will eventually find its way into your products.

YES: INGERSOLL RAND SIMPLAIR PIPING:

The SimplAir piping system’s high-quality, light weight, marine-grade aluminum construction delivers cost savings at all stages of ownership. The SimplAir system provides superior corrosion resistance to keep pipe interior surfaces free of the oxidation-based contamination that can occur with steel systems — contamination that can not only cause turbulence and pressure loss, but can also cause problems if corrosion-related debris enters sensitive equipment. In addition, the installation and modification process is easy with push-to-connect fittings for a variety of different sizes:

• 14mm piping is true push-to-lock fittings 
• 20-40mm piping is pre-torqued 
• 50mm and above piping needs to be pushed and wrenched tightened