Operating a Processing and Manufacturing Facility

Compressed Air Systems: Crucial Considerations for Tubing and Hose Selection

30 October 2017 by Todd West

If you are planning on replacing the tubes and hoses attached to your compressed air system, you should evaluate and compare the products in the market. Currently, there are numerous industrial tubing and hose products. So, choosing the right item to match your requirements can be challenging. However, you cannot afford to compromise. The wrong elements will contribute to problems such as pressure loss, accelerated degradation and poor pneumatic equipment performance. Therefore, consider the below-outlined factors during the selection of compressed air tubes and hoses.

Construction Material

The tubing or hose material will have a significant impact on the performance of the elements after installation in the compressed air system. Therefore, you should examine your options with care before making your decision. In general, the fabrication materials for this application can be classified as either plastic or metals. Plastic tubes are popular because of their low cost of purchase. Moreover, these products are lightweight and easy to install. 

On the other hand, you should note that polymeric materials are not highly durable. If they are exposed to high temperature or improperly filtered and cold air, they will experience accelerated degradation. Where possible, you should use metal alternatives such as stainless steel, brass and aluminium. These products are expensive, but they can withstand harsh usage environments. They will also last longer, allowing you to offset the costs.

Tubing Length

You should consider the length of the tubing and hoses in the market before purchasing products for your compressed air system. This aspect of the piping will have an impact on the transference of pressure. For instance, if the hose is too long, the air pressure will be attenuated before reaching the usage point. On the other hand, shorter tubes might not connect two points efficiently. Therefore, you should check the optimal length recommended by the manufacturer. If the detailed measurement is not available, you can shorten standard sizes. However, you should be wary of material wastage.

Product Sizing 

Air compressor systems have ports which are designed to connect to hoses and tubes. These attachment points will determine the right sizing of the replacement products. When shopping, you should make sure to inquire about the referenced measurements. Often, the measurements provided on hoses indicate the inner diameter while tubes indicate the outer diameter. It is prudent to confirm the specifications to avoid mishaps.

If you are uncertain about the best tubing and fittings for your compressed air system, you should consult a pressure pipe supplier for professional guidance.

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