Compressed air piping FAQ

 

Compressed air piping systems play a crucial role in ensuring reliable and efficient operation of industrial processes. On this page,  you can find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about compressed air distribution systems. 

Our team of experts has put together a list of questions and answers to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your compressed air piping needs.

 

What is a compressed air piping system exactly?

Typically, a compressed air piping system consists of pipes, fittings and point-of-use accessories. It is designed to deliver an uninterrupted supply of compressed air from the source to the point-of-use in optimal conditions.

For an optimal piping system,  seamless connection technology, faultless pipe sealing and corrosion-free materials are key.  Read more about compressed air distribution in our Wiki.

What is a looped air system?

One of the most efficient compressed air piping system designs is a loop system. By allowing the air to flow in two directions, the loop system effectively reduces the demand on the total pipe length by half. This cooperative arrangement not only minimizes pressure drops but also ensures that downstream equipment receives the full airflow, enabling optimal performance.

The loop system design greatly enhances the efficiency of the compressed air system and promotes optimal functioning of the downstream equipment.

Read more on how to configure a piping system in our Wiki.

What type of pipe is used for compressed air?

There are many factors at play when selecting the right material for your compressed air piping system. Your industry, application(s), environment, desired air quality, set-up size, aesthetics even.

In general you have the choice between AluminiumStainless steel and Polyamide.

Aluminum is the standard for any industrial application. It's lightweight and easy to install, but generally comes with a higher initial cost.
Stainless steel piping can be installed in harsh production environments like pharma and health, food and beverages, and process industries.
Polyamide pipes are ideal for workshops with several pneumatic tools.

Whatever the choice, you want to avoid pressure drops caused by piping wear and rust. Read more  about how to select the best piping material for your compressed air installation in our Wiki.

How do I know what size piping my compressed air system needs?

When determining your pipe diameter, take into account your flow rate, pressure, allowed pressure drop and the total length of the network. 

Make sure you use planning and calculation tools:

  • Discover our selector tools for aluminium and stainless steel piping
  • For piping system diagrams, lay-outs and calculations, discover our Planner

What is the AIRnet warranty period?

In line with the high quality performance of the AIRnet product range, we provide our customers with a 10 year guarantee on the AIRnet aluminum & stainless steel range of pipes & fittings against any damages resulting from material defect.

Fast and easy does not mean quick and dirty. The unsurpassed reliability of AIRnet is not a hollow promise; it is a solid 10-year guarantee.

Read more on our Warranty Coverage Terms.

For what applications can AIRnet be used?

AIRnet is a comlete system that can be safely installed in a variety of applications, including those involving compressed air, vacuum, and oil-free operations. Additionally, there are specialized Green AIRnet pipes designed for networks involving inert gases.

Thanks to its diverse piping materials and extensive range of accessories, AIRnet offers a complete solution that can be customized to suit specific requirements. Whether it's for workshop, industrial, pharma and health, food and beverages, or process industries, AIRnet is ready to adapt to various environments and applications.

Can AIRnet be installed in corrosive environments?

AIRnet Aluminium has become the industry standard for complete compressed air piping systems because it is both anti-corrosive and easy to handle. 

All AIRnet Aluminium pipes are subjected to a chromate-phosphate treatment, ensuring excellent resistance against corrosion and promoting strong adhesion with the external powder coating.

It is important to note that AIRnet should not be installed in corrosive environments containing chlorine gases or hydrochloric acids.

Why is AIRnet faster to install than the competition?

Designing and installing a piping system used to be cumbersome, complex and above all: time consuming. With AIRnet, you can get down to business in no time.

The lightweight AIRnet aluminum pipes and polymer fittings require no complex tools. The pipes are easy to cut and the fiberglass-polymer fittings ensure a perfect insertion depth and alignment instantly. AIRnet is adaptable to any existing pipe work. You simply cannot beat the speed of AIRnet installation. Assembling a similar installation with traditional piping will take you more than three times as long.

Does Airnet comply with ISO 8573-1:2010 ?

Yes, AIRnet fulfills the requirements of ISO 8573-1:2010 (1:2:0) provided that:

  • A system purge is executed with compressed air after the installation, for at least 24 hours
  • A properly sized certified point of use particle filter is used
  • Only NSF approved lubricant 2810 0248 00 is used
  • The intake air of the compressed air system fulfills the requirements of ISO 8573-1:2010 (1:2:0)

Without a point of use filter installed, AIRnet fulfills ISO 8573-1:2010 (2.2.0). AIRnet ball valves and butterfly valves are excluded from the certificate. When applicable, always check the compatibility of AIRnet components with the applied cleaning processes.