Practical guide to planning a compressed air piping system

Introduction or excerpt from the white paper

Compressed air is an important source of energy. It is used in many different industries. A properly planned compressed air network will ensure energy efficiency, reduce the costs associated with producing and distributing compressed air.

That is why selecting quality materials and adapted components is so important to limit maintenance costs and improve energy efficiency over the years of service.

The biggest challenges associated with compressed air network projects:

• VOLUME: Produce enough air to service all points
• CLEAN: Eliminate the presence of water and other contaminants in the system
• AIR TIGHT: Eliminate air leaks

6 points to consider before starting your project

To help you to carry out a safe, efficient and performing compressed air network project, here are 6 of the most important points to consider.

1. In what context will the compressed air be used?

Before starting a project, the type of application must be determined, because each application requires different specifications (air volume, air quality).

2. What volume of air do I need to power all pneumatic equipment and tools?

The total airflow required to supply all pneumatic equipment and tools must be calculated. The more workstations and equipment there will be, the higher the amount of air required. Therefore, the diameter of the air network should be large enough to deliver a sufficient quantity of air, at the required pressure for all points of use.

3. What is the location of my pneumatic equipment and tools?

It is important to know the layout and workflow location where the air network will be installed. This will have an important influence on the type of configuration to choose. The location of the compressor, the distance to be covered and all the required drops must be taken into account. The total length of the network, in linear feet, will dictate the diameter of the piping required for the network and its configuration.

4. Which network configuration is best?

The optimal configuration of the compressed air network will depend on the layout of the plant or workshop. Closed loop networks are considered to be the most efficient configurations because they ensure optimal consistency at all points of use. The goal is to achieve a balance between the demand for air volume (flow measured in SCFM) and the required pressure (in PSI). This factor will determine the optimal pipe diameter of the main line.

5. What air quality do I need?

To ensure that compressed air is clean and dry, choose materials that will not corrode and treat the air properly. Untreated air will damage tools and equipment by the presence of water and condensate.

6. Who will do the installation?

It is important that the compressed air network is installed by an expert who understands the rules of installation and safety.