Pex tubing is quite flexible and can be given any form. It is easier to connect pex tubing. You can also use it for the air compressor line yet it is not recommended. Pex is not suitable for the air compressor line according to the manufacturer. Meanwhile, pex pipes are suitable for water flow and will not get damaged easily like steel-made pipes.
Full Answer
Can you use PEX for compressed air lines?
PEX is a dielectric material with smooth interior walls. Therefore, there is no mineral build-up in PEX pipelines, and you can easily use them for compressed air. The usage of PEX airlines is now being promoted but one major issue that disturbs the work quality is kinking.
Can PEX be used for an air line?
PEX is designed for liquids and shouldn't be used for air lines. The tubing is "likely" ok, but the fittings are not, AFAIK. There is a similar product out there, however, that is designed for air. Click to see full answer. Similarly, it is asked, what is the best pipe to use for compressed air?
Is CPVC the same as PEX?
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride; CPVC stands for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride; and PEX stands for cross-link polyethylene. Although these materials are all thermoplastics, meaning they become liquids at very high temperatures and glassy at very low temperatures, they have slightly different properties, manufacturing processes and uses.
How many PSI to blow out PEX?
Set the compressor air pressure regulator to a maximum of 80 psi for rigid PVC pipe systems, or 50 psi for flexible black polyethylene pipe. Then turn off the water supply and set the system timer to open just one zone. Next, open the manual drain valve at the end of that zone (if equipped).
Can I use PEX for compressed air lines?
My personal preference for small-shop compressed-air piping is PEX. It's lightweight and flexible, and the fittings literally snap together. It's the easiest of any of the options to reconfigure and the simplest to install.
Will PEX hold air pressure?
Unfortunately, PEX plumbing systems are pressure rated at as much as 60% lower than a FlowGuard Gold plumbing system. With a maximum pressure rating of 160psi, it is entirely possible for system pressures in a multifamily or commercial building to exceed the rated pressure for a PEX system.
What type of PEX is used for air lines?
4:5417:50PEX Air Line Install in a Woodshop - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo for the exterior. I want the galvanized pipe just to make sure everything's fine now i'm usingMoreSo for the exterior. I want the galvanized pipe just to make sure everything's fine now i'm using regular pex not pex al which has aluminum sheathing which is really rated for air.
What is the best pipe to use for compressed air?
Ideal plastic pipes for piping compressed air are made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Polyethylene (PE) piping and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) piping are also good choices for compressed air applications. PVC is not recommended and is an OSHA violation if used.
How do I connect my PEX to my air compressor?
7:3110:41How to connect pex to an air compressor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt goes behind the workbench. And it ties in right here to a regulator. With that regulator I canMoreIt goes behind the workbench. And it ties in right here to a regulator. With that regulator I can set it to whatever working pressure I want so if I want it at 40 psi for painting.
What is the PSI of half inch PEX?
In accordance with ASTM F876, the minimum hydrostatic burst pressure for PEX pipe is 480 pounds per square inch (for 1/2-inch pipe) and 475 psi (for 3/4-inch pipe and larger) at 73.4 degrees F. PEX-a manufacturers produce pipe that bursts at pressures of nearly twice that of the ASTM F876 requirements.
Can I use SharkBite for compressed air?
With SharkBite and John Guest Air & Pneumatics, we now have two world-class, reliable push-fit solutions to suit all compressed air and pneumatics applications,” said Phil.
Can PVC be used for air compressor line?
The use of PVC pipe is common but not recommended for use with compressed air. The biggest reason is because it is against OSHA Regulations to utilize PVC and plastic pipes in the United States for compressed air usage. It is, however, often used because it is readily available, inexpensive, and easy to install.
Can I use CPVC pipe for compressed air?
No, PVC and CPVC pipe should not be used for compressed air lines.
What PSI is PEX good for?
PEX-a pipe can withstand a burst pressure of around 800 psi (almost two times the requirement for ASTM F876, the standard specification for PEX tubing). So neither the pipe nor the fittings are weak points, making for an extremely high-performing system in domestic water and hydronic piping applications.
What size pipe do I need for compressed air lines?
Air pipe lines capacities at pressure 100 psi (6.9 bar).Recommended Pipe Size (inches)Free Air Flow (cfm)Length of Pipe (feet)251/21301/21353/4119 more rows
Can type M copper pipe be used for compressed air?
Copper pipe is a common selection for sensitive compressed air systems and when correctly sized and connected is very durable and effective. Type M hard, type L hard and type K soft copper has a working pressure of 250 psig (17 bar).
Why is PEX pipe used?
PEX pipes ensure fresh, high-quality air as there is no risk of corrosion or release of flakes. Many pipe tubing, such as galvanized pipes, needs to be repaired due to flaky materials disposed of in the pipes. And this is where PEX takes the lead. They provide you with clean, fresh, and pure-quality air for long-term use.
How long does PEX pipe last?
A Potential Life Span of 50 years. The biggest concern regarding plastic pipelines is that they get brittle with time, so they cannot be used for air compressors. However, as compared to the rest of the plastic pipes, PEX takes the lead. Experts report that PEX has a potential lifespan of 50 years and it is more sustainable than copper ...
Why is PEX tubing kinking?
The usage of PEX airlines is now being promoted but one major issue that disturbs the work quality is kinking. Because PEX tubing is quite flexible, so it can easily bend and form kinks. These kinks can create weak spots and result in leakage of air.
What is the best temperature for PEX pipeline?
The best thing about PEX pipelines is that they can sustain high temperatures up to 200°F, whereas an ideal operating temperature for air compressors is between 50°F-94°F. So, when it comes to bearing high-temperatures, PEX can provide you with maximum output.
Is PEX pipe a compression fitting?
On the other hand, PEX is the easiest to install as strong connections are made using crimp fittings . PEX compression fittings are much more reliable as a compression nut is used to fix PEX pipe to the joint, preventing leaks. There is no need to use solders or high temperatures for connecting the two pipes.
Is PEX piping good for compressed air?
It is essential to have a proper piping system when it comes to delivering compressed air . If you are planning to design a compressed air system, then you can consider PEX piping systems. Many experts believe in using PEX for compressed air but with strict regulations due to pressure sustainability challenges.
Can PEX be used outside?
PEX pipelines or fittings cannot be used for outdoor applications as it is susceptible to damage by sunlight. PEX has chlorine-inhibiting antioxidants, and when it is exposed to sunlight, the antioxidants that protect the air lines diminish.
What is PEX?
For much of the latter 20th century, household plumbing systems depended heavily on copper piping – a material that can be difficult to master and whose price has risen significantly in recent years with its ever-increasing demand. This has therefore led to many pros and DIYers opting to use PEX tubing.
Types of PEX Pipe
As already mentioned above, there are over 20 variations of PEX pipe but we won’t get into all of them don’t worry! We’ll focus on providing a basic understanding of the 4 main types which are:
Using PEX for Compressed Air
PEX has become a popular choice for compressed air systems as it is cheap and affordable compared to your more typical, and far more expensive, metal piping compressed air systems.
How Do You Make PEX Connections?
In order to make either watertight or airtight connections with your PEX pipe, you will need to obtain the right tools and supplies. I will provide you with five methods for connecting the pipes. The fittings and connectors must be an exact match to the size of the PEX pipe.
PEX vs Copper or CPVC – Which is Better?
People often wonder whether PEX is better than the most popular and traditionally used piping material, copper. There are several advantages that PEX holds over copper piping which make it very attractive for creating a new piping system or replacing existing pipe systems.
Youtube Demonstration Reviews
This youtube demonstration below conducts tests on multiple brands of PEX tubing to see how much pressure they can withstand using a pump!
Using PEX for Compressed Air Summary Advice & Tips
If you’re planning to use PEX, or should I say PEX-AL-PEX, for your air compressor piping setup, I would like to leave you with the following tips:
What is black pipe?
Black pipe is the most commonly used pipe RECOMMENDED for compressed air systems. It is readily available, it is strong and durable and most people are familiar with how to install it. With all of the advantages black pipe provides, however, it will produce rust contamination that damages pneumatic tooling.
Can Sharkbite be used for compressed air?
Additionally, can SharkBite fittings be used for compressed air? Can I use SharkBite fittings for anything other than potable water and radiant heating (e.g, air, gas, oil, etc.) applications? No, fittings are only certified for potable water and radiant heating installations.
Can PEX Be Used for Compressed Air Lines?
In the design of your household, one of the advantages is that through the layout of the rooms you can draw the central ventilation and thus provide fresh air in all rooms. The question is what materials will you use in the installations of your ventilation system and how much do they cost?
How to Use PEX for Air Lines?
The great advantage of working with PEX pipes is that cross-linking polyethylene [ 2] was created to ensure the stability of materials when working at extreme temperatures, whether high or low.
Can PEX be Used for Air Lines?
If we talk about the resistance of PEX pipes to low and high temperatures, the measures that need to be taken to protect the entire water supply and sewerage system in the household, it is certain that PEX pipes can be used for air lines.
Voice of Plumbing Professional
Different experiences of professionals and those who install plumbing, sewerage, and ventilation systems themselves provide different information. Someone you trust may have a bad experience and convey to you negative impressions about the use of certain materials or raw materials from certain manufacturers.
Plastic Pipe
Plastic pipes are lightweight, cheap, and easy to install. With that, they are non-corrosive. However, there are different plastics, and they’re not all the same. If you’re using plastic materials for your compressed air channels, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s durable and can handle many years of use.
ABS, HDPE, and PE for a Compressed Air System
When you want to use plastic piping for your compressed air piping system, you have many other options. These include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene (PE), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Those materials retain most of the benefits of CPVC and PVC but are much more durable.
Metal Pipe
Pipe systems made from various metals are a traditional choice for your compressed air distribution. Metal piping is more resistant to blowouts, splits, and cracks, and it’s stronger.
Black Iron Pipe
Black iron piping is a standard option for compressed air delivery. You can find black metal piping in old installations, and iron piping is durable and strong, so it can withstand abuse.
Galvanized Steel Pipe
Galvanized piping offers some of the same disadvantages and advantages of black iron, with a major exception – galvanization reduces corrosion, so it’s a popular choice in a compressed air system.
Stainless Steel Piping for Compressed Air Systems
Stainless steel is very durable, so it’s the longest-lasting material out there and the most expensive. However, you can minimize corrosion with stainless steel piping because it doesn’t corrode or degrade like galvanized or black iron pipes.
Copper Pipe
Copper pipe makes a great choice for compressed air piping. It’s lighter than its iron counterpart and easier to install than stainless. Plus, copper piping uses standard joining techniques and readily available fittings. The same properties making it great for general plumbing purposes also makes it attractive for compressed air systems.
Where does pressure come from in a pipe?
Couple of points to bear in mind. From the perspective of a pipe, pressure can come from any fluid, whether that fluid be air, water, mercury, or for that matter any liquid or gas.
Why do you need glass pipe?
For example, if you want to carry nitric acid, you need glass pipe, because other common types of pipe degrade when in contact with nitric acid. All plastic pipes have temperature ratings, as they typically weaken with rising temperature, hence their pressure rating is temperature dependent.
Is Pex rated for air?
Pex is not rated for air! it is rated for water PSI of 150 you want the air rating take that 150 and divide it by 3 you get 50 PSI max rating for your air line. Now you know. use stainless steal tubing with nutts and ferrels.
Is it illegal to use PVC in compressed gas?
For example, MIOSHA (Michigan's branch of OSHA) prohibits the use of PVC plastic in compressed gas systems unless properly encased in steel, cement, or some other approved material.
Is 150 psi water the same as 50 psi air?
The pipe from a mechanical standpoint behaves exactly the same whether it is subject to 50 psi from air or water, so there is no basis to the claim that 150 psi water is the same as 50 psi air. Certain types of pipe are not rated for specific chemicals. This is a chemical, NOT a mechanical issue.
Is PEX pipe rated for compressed air?
If a specific PEX manufacturer states that their PEX pipe is not rated for compressed air, that probably means only that the manufacturer has never tested their product for use with compressed air, hence they are not going to warranty it for that particular use. This says nothing about allowable code use.
