Compressed air systems can be used in a wide variety of industries, from woodworking to auto repair and more. In fact, as many as 70% of all manufacturers have some sort of compressed air systems used in their operations. With compressed air piping being so essential in manufacturing, it’s important that your system is well designed. Here are a few basic tips to get the most out of your compressed air piping layout.
- Eliminate quick couplings: For the most efficient compressed air piping layout possible, remove quick couplings wherever you can. Quick couplings are designed to be used only when a quick disconnect of hand tools is required. For any connections to a stationary machine, use a hard pipe or flexible hose barbs rather than a quick coupling.
- Restrict twists and turns: The most efficient path is the straightest one when it comes to your compressed air piping design. Try to avoid elbow bends or unnecessary changes in the flow of air, as these can create sizable drops in pressure.
- Leaks are unacceptable: Be sure to repair any leaks as soon as you notice them in order to save yourself hassle and money. Compressed-air system leaks can be costly; a 1/8 inch diameter hole in a 100 PSI system can cost you more than $1,200 per year in wasted energy. Even small leaks add up fast, so be sure to stay on the lookout.
- Design with expansion in mind: When initially setting up your system, ensure that your compressed air piping layout is ready to accommodate any needed future expansion. Adding extra isolation valves, tees, and plugs during initial design can make it easier to add to your system later on if the need arises. Additionally, if you’re already expecting a future increase in demands on the system, it’s best to design for your future needs rather than your current ones. Expansion of a system can be far more costly than simply designing a larger compressed air system to begin with.
Looking for compressed air piping materials to help improve the efficiency of your manufacturing? Contact Rapid Air Products for all your air compressor needs.