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How old is your compressed air piping system? Ensuring your compressed air distribution system operates efficiently is crucial for the overall efficiency and performance of your compressed air system. Here are 10 signs that indicate it’s time to replace or upgrade your compressed air pipe.
How Long Does Compressed Air Piping Last?
The service life of a compressed air piping system can vary widely based on several factors, including the material of the pipes, the quality of the installation, the operating conditions and the maintenance practices. Generally, here’s what you can expect for different types of materials.
* Black iron or galvanized steel: Typically, these pipes can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years under normal operating conditions. However, they are prone to corrosion, which can significantly shorten their lifespan, especially if moisture is present in the compressed air. Galvanized steel will last a bit longer than black iron or mild steel, but it is also prone to corrosion as the zinc layer wears away.
* Stainless steel: Stainless steel piping can last 50 years or more under normal operating conditions. Its longevity is primarily due to its high strength and corrosion resistance. However, these systems are very expensive to install, making them relatively rare in the compressed air world.
* Copper: Known for its corrosion resistance and high durability, copper piping can last 20 to 50 years. The exact lifespan will depend on the environment, installation and maintenance practices. Copper is prone to pitting when exposed to certain chemicals and can become brittle under certain kinds of tensile stress, leading to potential cracking. Joints and fittings can fail earlier than the overall piping system itself, leading to excessive leaks.
* Plastic: While plastic pipe is sometimes used for compressed air delivery, its use is not recommended due to safety and longevity concerns. (Note: PVC, CPVC and PEX should never be used for...