An Overview About Compressed Air Piping Systems

15 February 2021

Many industries have been utilising compressed air piping systems in generating enough compressed air to power specific components. Since compressed air can be expensive to produce, the systems used for generating it must be designed and planned carefully to avoid incurring more expenses.

A well-designed compressed air piping system can increase production efficiencies of a plant or site. It can also lessen maintenance requirements, decrease energy costs, prevent equipment failure, and other helpful benefits. All the benefits of this system allow it to be essential for businesses, making the system a great investment that can yield a high return on investment in the long run.

Principles behind Compressed Air Piping Systems

What makes compressed air piping systems truly functional is that they can do some things that other piping systems cannot offer. They effectively deliver and transfer compressed air to areas where it is actually needed. They can also maintain the purity of the compressed air as the systems filter and remove contaminants. But for the transfer of the compressed air to be done efficiently, it must retain its quality and pressure before reaching certain types of components.

Compressed air piping systems can maintain their functionalities if they are paired with appropriate piping material. One of the materials that can be used for these systems is plastic. Plastic pipes are known for their corrosion resistance, smooth interior surface, and ease of installation. Metal is also utilised in compressed air piping systems as it has been one of the top choices when it comes to piping. Metal pipes are reliable since they can easily resist fracture, splits, and blowouts.

Optimisation and Piping Layout Considerations

Aside from the piping materials, compressed air piping systems can only be functional if their whole piping structure is planned carefully. There are numerous factors that must be considered to optimise compressed air piping systems.

One of these factors is the presence of sharp angles. Whenever designing this specific system, the existence of sharp angles or points must be minimised or even avoided so that the compressed air can flow flawlessly. With sharp corners, the air tends to slow down, which then loses significant pressure and energy along the way. Having a straight path, alternatively, is the best way to deliver compressed air.

Another factor to consider whenever designing the overall piping of the system is the existence of moisture. Water or moisture can cause damages to pipes, especially to those that are susceptible to corrosion. As rust flakes from the pipes start to move along with the compressed air, they can accumulate inside the end-use equipment and cause their gradual deterioration. To regulate the amount of moisture in the piping system, one should change the supply inlet source of the compressor. Drying the air can also make the piping system free from added moisture.

Other things that can optimise the piping layout include the removal of obstructions, installation of drip legs, and the addition of ball valves and unions.

 

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