Comparing Compressed Air Piping Materials
Material Properties Compressed Air Piping – 4 Types
When it comes to designing compressed air distribution systems, one critical aspect to consider is the choice of piping material. The material you select can significantly impact the cost, ease of installation, maintenance, and overall performance of your compressed air system. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare four types of compressed air piping materials: Aluminum Alloy, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT), and Nylon. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each material, helping you make an informed decision for your specific application.
Aluminum Alloy: Lightweight and Durable
Aluminum Alloy is a metal renowned for its low density and remarkable strength. Unlike some historical metals such as iron and copper, aluminum is produced from bauxite ore through an energy-intensive process. Its journey dates back to 1824 when pure aluminum was first produced, and industrial aluminum production techniques emerged in 1854. Aluminum played a pivotal role in the development of aviation in the early 1900s and the creation of satellites in the 1950s.
One of the standout features of aluminum alloy as a compressed air piping material is its rigidity and resistance to sagging, a common issue with plastic piping. Furthermore, aluminum exhibits excellent resistance to gas diffusion. Installation is a breeze compared to other metal pipes, as it doesn’t require threaded, welded, or soldered connections. Instead, aluminum alloys can be easily connected using compression fittings.
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE): Strength and Efficiency
High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a polymer known for its remarkable strength-to-density ratio. It boasts a relatively high tensile strength, making it a versatile material used in various applications, including the familiar milk jug. HDPE is recyclable and free from the chemical BPA, making it a suitable replacement for polyvinyl carbonate and polycarbonate in many applications.
When used as a compressed air piping material, HDPE is often combined with a layer of aluminum, creating a composite material that offers the best of both worlds. The aluminum layer prevents oxygen diffusion, while the HDPE provides strength without adding significant weight. HDPE does not corrode, reducing the risk of material flakes entering the air system, and its smooth surface minimizes the energy required to push compressed air through the system.
Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT): Resilience and Safety
Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT), introduced in North America in 2003, is a newer material compared to HDPE. PE-RT was developed as an alternative to HDPE, designed to withstand higher temperatures and exhibit greater resistance to chemicals and slow crack growth. Importantly, PE-RT meets all food safety regulations set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Similar to HDPE, PE-RT incorporates a layer of aluminum when used as a compressed air piping material, creating a composite material that resists gas diffusion. It remains lightweight, non-corroding, smooth, and, crucially, food-safe. This makes it an ideal choice for applications where air quality and safety are paramount concerns.
Nylon: The Time-Tested Workhorse
Nylon, the first commercially successful polymer, has a rich history dating back to its synthesis in 1935. It gained fame for its use in toothbrush bristles and women’s stockings in the 1930s. During World War II, nylon production was primarily dedicated to parachutes and parachute cord. Nylon is celebrated for its strength, lightness, resistance to corrosion, flexibility, and moisture resistance.
When utilized as a compressed air piping material, nylon tubing proves resistant to cracking, stable under heat and light, and notably cost-effective. Its compatibility with push-to-connect fittings simplifies installation, emphasizing that ease of installation translates to ease of repair and maintenance—a critical consideration in preventing costly leaks in compressed air systems.
In conclusion, the choice of compressed air piping material is a crucial decision that affects your system’s efficiency, cost, and longevity. Each material we’ve discussed has its unique advantages, making it suitable for different applications. Whether you opt for the rigidity of aluminum alloy, the strength and efficiency of HDPE, the resilience and safety of PE-RT, or the time-tested reliability of nylon, remember that making an informed decision now can lead to substantial savings in the long run. Proper maintenance and attention to potential leaks will also ensure the continued efficiency of your compressed air system. Choose wisely, and your compressed air distribution system will serve you reliably for years to come.
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