Black Iron size?

[Waxman]

When hard plumbing my detail shop compressor, what diameter black iron should I use?

Thanks!

 

[soapy]

Black iron is a pretty expensive way to plumb for air lines now days. Most new installs are using PVC pipe for a fraction of the cost. PVC can also be done by yourself vs. having a plumber have to thread all that pipe and hang it for you.

 

[Waxman]

But is it safe to use PVC?

 

[MEP001]

It's safe enough - I'd use copper over black iron, but the latter can be done more easily with hand tools.

 

[Waxman]

What size pvc?

How do you make the joint from pvc to an air coupling etc.? I'm not that smart...

 

[Whale of a Wash]

Just use an end with threads to screw a coupler into it,preferably a 90 with threads to get it away from the wall. I use small plastic tubing to air doors with 90psi, so plastic is no big deal.

 

[MEP001]

What size pvc?

Depends on what you're doing with it. For your wash, 3/8" would be plenty. If it's for your detail shop and you'll have lots of tools drawing from it, you might need 1/2".

How do you make the joint from pvc to an air coupling etc.? I'm not that smart...

If it's for your wash, a threaded fitting glued in should be sufficient. If it's for your detail shop, you'd probably want to use a piece of metal pipe clamped securely to the wall so you won't have people pulling and breaking off the PVC fitting while they work.

 

[Waxman]

So we are clear, you're talking about the grey colored pvc? I know they also make black and white.

I was planning to go up the ceiling and do some drops with the spring reels w/rubber air hose.

I'd like a metal manifold on the wall near the compressor where I could input a couple lines if I like for airing up tires etc. but would do most of the detailing w/air via the drops for neatness in the shop.

Sorry for all the dumb little questions but I want to do this right on 'take 1'.

 

[jfmoran]

Google It

Google PVC and compressed air lines, I think you will find it's a serious accident waiting to happen as well as it may be illegal in your state.

 

[Waxman]

What about this?

http://www.eastwood.com/complete-garage-air-line-kit.html

 

[MEP001]

So we are clear, you're talking about the grey colored pvc? I know they also make black and white.

1/2" Sch 40 (White) PVC pipe is rated to something like 500 PSI working pressure. Sch 80 (Gray) is stronger and would probably even look better as an install.

That kit you linked is a joke. $199 for a dozen fittings, a couple manifolds and 100' of tubing? You can get all those components (except the manifolds) from Kleen-Rite for way less than half that.

 

[Waxman]

I am now looking at the radiant heat (water) tubing for this.