Compressed air distribution - best method?

[Jet-Stream]

I am re-doing the compressed air distribution in my 5 and 1. What do you think is the best way to do it? Currently there is 3/8 poly tubing in the building. It works ok. Just the install was done very sloppy and hap-hazard. I am considering galvanized pipe, or using poly tubing again. I am open to suggestions for other types of tubing or pipe. I like things to be neat and orderly.
Thanks

 

[MEP001]

There's no reason to use galvanized pipe, in fact I can think of a couple reasons not to (Cost and corrosion). 3/8" nylon tubing might be better since it's usually 225 PSI working pressure and not 100 like poly, or you could use a hard tubing. I use 1/2" copper mainly because it looks neater than tubing, "M" grade is light and fairly cheap and it will never corrode.

 

[Tom Thumb]

Sch.40 PVC pipe. 3/4'. Easy to work with and looks good, also easy to work with if you have to make modifications later .

 

[Jeff_L]

I use 1/2" copper as well. It runs around the shop as a "manifold" and I just run taps off of it. Looks good, but challenging to make modifications later on.

 

[mac]

Whichecer way you chose to go, be sure to put in shutoff valves for the individual runs, and put a label on them. That will save you grief down the road.

 

[buda]

Air compressor systems

Most air compressor companies suggest using threaded black pipe for the best air compressor installation.

Most muncipalities outlaw the use of pcv pipe for compressed air systems due to the fact that they can "burst." The fire inspector in his inspection of our facility made us disconnect our compressed air system because we had used PVC.

Plumbers like to use copper because they think of air as water but that is not the best. If you use copper and a plumber installs the air compressor system be use you use a loop system so the air circulates back to the compressor for the most even flow.

Also when you put in the tees to the vertical lines be sure to use "elbows" with the connection facing up so the moisture in the line stays in the line and not down allowing it to drop into the lines, especially if you are using air tools.

Just some well intentioned thoughts

Bud Abraham