<VV> Air compressor distribution lines
Rt66Vairs at aol.com
Rt66Vairs at aol.com
Mon Oct 31 17:54:54 EST 2005
I've only been fitting pipe for 35 years or so. So my opinions on this may
not be valid.
First choice for air lines... Type K Copper... You can use 95-5 solder for
most applications.
Always use 95-5 solder for threaded adapters.
Silver Solder or SilPhos is better but don't use it on treaded adapters. The
additional heat
will soften them enough that getting a good seal and it being permanent may
be a problem.
The copper fitting can become anealed by the additional heat required.
Second choice... Type L Copper... Install in the same way as type K.
Third choice.... Schedule 40 iron... The copper isn't actually that much
better but it's much
easier to install.
If water in the air is a BIG problem invest in a refrigerated air dryer if
you are doing a lot of
painting. It will make you life much easier.
If you are using an oil lubed compressor install oil traps and a coalescing
filter BEFORE the
air dryer.
If you are only operating pneumatic tools install air drains and watch them
and use them. You
can install timed solenoid valves that will blow these down for you
regularly and take you're
forgetter out of the "cause of failure" loop.
Finally... Distribute the air at tank pressure and install regulators at the
points of use. A
moisture trap at that point can be a good idea. But if have thoroughly dried
the air after the
tank they may not be needed.
Trust me on one thing... Water in our air systems is NOT our friend.
Don't ask me how I know this.
Tim Abney
IECC
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