why not copper???
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 800
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From: Ontario, canada
why not copper???
With all the threads about what kind of pipe to use for compressed air, I was wondering if there was any reason not to use standard 1/2" copper pipe with soldered connections? It's cheap, easy to work, and certainly strong enough.
I've had a run of this in my workshop for years without any problems .
I've had a run of this in my workshop for years without any problems .
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,613
Likes: 2
From: Gainesville, FL
why not copper???
All,
I don't believe that the copper line should be hard piped to the compressor. There should be a soft line that connects to the copper system. This would eliminate any chance of a vibration problem. I would personally use 3/4" copper just because it doesn't have to be supported as much as 1/2". Copper is the safe, cheap way to go!
Consider it,
KingFisher
I don't believe that the copper line should be hard piped to the compressor. There should be a soft line that connects to the copper system. This would eliminate any chance of a vibration problem. I would personally use 3/4" copper just because it doesn't have to be supported as much as 1/2". Copper is the safe, cheap way to go!
Consider it,
KingFisher
Posting Legend
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 30,255
Likes: 37
why not copper???
I even run a rubber hose for steel line to isolate the vibration from the pump.
Remember to put a system isolation valve in the outlet line from the compressor so that you can work on the lines without draining the tank.
You might want to check with some copper fitting and line manufacturers to check the line rating and required assy techniques for use with compressed gas.
Remember to put a system isolation valve in the outlet line from the compressor so that you can work on the lines without draining the tank.
You might want to check with some copper fitting and line manufacturers to check the line rating and required assy techniques for use with compressed gas.
Last edited by Torque1st; Mar 11, 2003 at 11:19 PM.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,613
Likes: 2
From: Gainesville, FL
why not copper???
All,
I have designed quite a few "Hydronic Heating Systems" in my day. These reheat and baseboard systems must be tested for leaks prior to filling. We test them with 125 psi air. The system must hold for a day. Copper piping Type L is more than adequate for these relatively low pressures.
Secondly, copper tubing has a thinner wall than pipe and is used on condenser coils in air-conditioning. Condenser pressures can run as high as 250 psi and are tested at 450 psi at the factory.
Copper should be strong enough for pneumatic conveyance of approximately 125 psi for an infinite time. Even if it does fail, it won't send ballistic shards across the room.
KingFisher
I have designed quite a few "Hydronic Heating Systems" in my day. These reheat and baseboard systems must be tested for leaks prior to filling. We test them with 125 psi air. The system must hold for a day. Copper piping Type L is more than adequate for these relatively low pressures.
Secondly, copper tubing has a thinner wall than pipe and is used on condenser coils in air-conditioning. Condenser pressures can run as high as 250 psi and are tested at 450 psi at the factory.
Copper should be strong enough for pneumatic conveyance of approximately 125 psi for an infinite time. Even if it does fail, it won't send ballistic shards across the room.
KingFisher
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 111
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From: rome, georgia
why not copper???
the hoses going from the compressor are called snubber hoses
and they are used for vibrations reasons.
and they are used for vibrations reasons.
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Senior User
Joined: Feb 2003
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From: North East
why not copper???
I am glad that this has been posted, I was going to ask the same thing. Now here's an addition to the question.
What should be done in a copper line system for water buildup in the lines? Would a U shapped area of pipe with a petcock? Or an evaporator setup of some kind?
I am setting this up new and want to make sure it gets done correctly.
Thanks for the input.
Jim
What should be done in a copper line system for water buildup in the lines? Would a U shapped area of pipe with a petcock? Or an evaporator setup of some kind?
I am setting this up new and want to make sure it gets done correctly.
Thanks for the input.
Jim
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 1,613
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From: Gainesville, FL
why not copper???
95,
I like to slope my systems towards a water trap. I prefer to put a watertrap at each coupling point. Sometimes money can be an issue on this point.
Somehow over the years I have gathered a collection of water traps and have extras lying around. My point, don't ever throw one out and don't let a friend throw one out, collect them.
On another point.
What if you used baseboard heating element for piping?
You could reject alot of heat from the system.
How much heat does a 5HP compressor reject?Max?
Well. 1HP=745.5Watts; so 5HP=3727.5W=12,718Btu/hr.
How many feet would you need? My guess is about 12 ft. or less.
By cooling the air, you can remove the majority of water before it gets to your tools.
Consider it,
KingFisher
I like to slope my systems towards a water trap. I prefer to put a watertrap at each coupling point. Sometimes money can be an issue on this point.
Somehow over the years I have gathered a collection of water traps and have extras lying around. My point, don't ever throw one out and don't let a friend throw one out, collect them.
On another point.
What if you used baseboard heating element for piping?
You could reject alot of heat from the system.
How much heat does a 5HP compressor reject?Max?
Well. 1HP=745.5Watts; so 5HP=3727.5W=12,718Btu/hr.
How many feet would you need? My guess is about 12 ft. or less.
By cooling the air, you can remove the majority of water before it gets to your tools.
Consider it,
KingFisher
Posting Legend
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 30,255
Likes: 37
why not copper???
Check some of the other topics here about air compressors and tools. You will find a variety of tips and websites listed for helping with the construction and layout of your air system. This place is like a library, -go read the "books" here -hehe!
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 111
Likes: 0
From: rome, georgia
why not copper???
I hve never used copper pipe for the installation of air piping..can't solder my way out of a bucket.I have always used the steel stuff... I would suggest 3/4 for the main loop and 1/2 for the drops........3/4" pipe has an extra capacity of 2+ gallons of air per 100 foot ..also to give you a true rating.install pressure gauges at verious locations..This will give you an idea of real pressure.
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