Compressed Air Pipework Is Right for Your Factory?
Part 1 of 2 - Which
Compressed Air Pipe Is
Right For Your Factory?
Part 1 Of 2 | STAINLESS
STEEL VS ALUMINIUM VS
NYLON VS PE100 POLY
The cheapest pipe on the day isn’t always the cheapest pipe over ten years.
Choosing the wrong compressed air pipework might not cause an obvious problem on installation day. The trouble can appear months later, when pipes start sagging, machines struggle for air, leaks develop or your compressor costs more to run than it should.
At Airlinc Systems, we believe in choosing the right product for the right customer. That means looking beyond the purchase price and considering the environment, the machines being supplied, the installation and the future needs of the factory.
There are four main types of pipework we consider for many compressed air applications. Each has its advantages, but each also has limitations.
The question isn't simply which pipe is best.
It's which pipe is right for your job.
PE100 Poly - A Strong Option for underground Pipework
PE100 polyethylene is a popular choice for suitable underground installations because it doesn't rust or corrode like metallic pipework.
If we're running compressed air underground between buildings or through an area where moisture in the ground is a concern, PE100 can be an excellent option when the pipe and fittings are specifically suitable for compressed air service.
Where PE100 Works Well
Underground pipework and connections between buildings
Installations where corrosion resistance is important
Suitable projects where polyethylene offers a practical, economical solution
What can go wrong?
One problem I see with overhead poly installations is inadequate support. If clips are too far apart, the pipe can sag and leave the installation looking untidy.
Polyethylene also expands and contracts with temperature changes, so the installation needs to allow for movement.
The joining method is equally important. Poorly prepared or incorrectly fused joints can restrict the internal bore, creating unnecessary resistance to airflow.
Our view: PE100 can be an excellent product in the right environment, but it needs the correct specification, jointing method and installation design.
Push - Fit Nylon - When Space Is Tight
Push-fit nylon tubing can be a practical solution around machinery, workbenches and smaller workshop installations.
Its biggest advantage is convenience. Quick connections can make installation easier, particularly where you need to route tubing through tight spaces or connect individual machines.
Where nylon works well
Machine connections
Workbenches and workstation airlines
Short runs around equipment
Suitable applications where quick connections save installation time
What should you consider?
Not every nylon tube or push-fit fitting is suitable for every environment. Operating pressure, temperature, chemical exposure and compatibility with the compressed air system must all be checked against the manufacturer's specifications.
Fittings can also restrict airflow depending on their internal design and the amount of air required.
Our view: Push-fit nylon has its place, particularly for smaller connections and restricted spaces. For larger factory distribution systems, the complete airflow requirement needs to be considered before selecting the product.
Aluminium - Clean, Fast and Professional
Modern aluminium compressed air systems are popular because they are lightweight, modular and designed for efficient installation.
Systems such as AIRnet use purpose-designed pipes and fittings that can help create a clean, professional-looking installation.
I particularly like aluminium for suitable workshop distribution and bench-height airlines. It's easy to work with, looks excellent when installed properly and can be convenient when a factory layout changes in the future.
Where aluminium works well
Factory distribution and ring mains
Workshop and bench-height airlines
Surface-mounted pipework
Installations where future modifications are likely
What are the limitations?
Aluminium pipework can be dented or damaged by impact, depending on the system and pipe size. Protection is important where forklifts, machinery or stored materials could strike the pipework.
Connection methods also differ between systems. Some use mechanical grip-ring arrangements, while others use different purpose-designed fittings. They must be assembled according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The internal design of bends and fittings matters too. Restrictive passages can contribute to pressure drop, especially when the system is undersized for the required airflow.
Our view: Aluminium is an excellent option for many factories, particularly when a neat finish, efficient installation and future flexibility are important.
Stainless Steel - Strength and Durability
Stainless steel is a strong choice for applications where durability, corrosion resistance and a professional finish are important.
Grades 304 and 316 are commonly considered for industrial applications. Grade 304 may suit many indoor environments, while grade 316 is often selected for more aggressive conditions. The right grade depends on the actual environment and exposure.
One feature I particularly value in some stainless steel press-fit systems is the availability of fittings with smooth, sweeping bends. A well-designed bend can help reduce local pressure losses compared with a more restrictive fitting.
Where stainless steel works well
Industrial installations requiring durable pipework
Applications where corrosion resistance is important
Environments where mechanical strength is a priority
Suitable applications requiring a high-quality finish
Good for food grade as well.
What are the limitations?
Installation accuracy is also critical. With press-fit systems, the pipe must be cut, prepared, marked and inserted correctly before the fitting is crimped.
Once a fitting has been crimped, it generally cannot simply be loosened and repositioned. If the joint is assembled incorrectly, it may need to be replaced.
The correct seals, tools and installation procedures must be used for the specific system.
Our view: Stainless steel can be an excellent choice where its strength and corrosion resistance justify the cost, but the material and connection system still need to suit the application.
The Important Part: Don't Forget Pressure Drop
You can choose a good pipe material and still end up with a poorly performing compressed air system.
Pressure drop is the loss of air pressure as compressed air travels through the pipework, fittings, valves, filters, dryers and other components.
The amount of pressure lost depends on several factors:
Pipe diameter and internal bore
Total pipe length
Airflow demand
The number and design of bends and fittings
Filters, valves and other restrictions
The overall distribution layout
Not all 90-degree bends are the same. Some have tighter internal radii or more restrictive passages than others. A smoother fitting can reduce local pressure losses, but the complete system design determines the result.
This is why selecting a pipe based on price alone can be a mistake.
The right material is important, but the right pipe size and fitting design are just as important.
So, Which Compressed air Pipework Should You Choose?
At Airlinc Systems, we don't believe one material is automatically the best for every customer.
We look at where the pipework will run, the environment it will operate in, the machines it must supply, the required airflow and pressure, and the possibility of future expansion.
We also consider how the compressor, receiver, dryer and filtration equipment will work with the distribution network.
The objective is to choose a system that suits the application, performs reliably and avoids unnecessary restrictions and running costs.
A cheaper installation isn't necessarily a better investment if it creates problems later.
Coming Next — Part 2 of 2
Why Turning Up Your Compressor Pressure Could Be Costing You Thousands
Choosing the right pipework is only half the story.
In Part 2, we'll look at pressure drop, why machines can run short of air, when a ring main makes sense, and how correct pipe sizing and compressor design can help reduce wasted energy.
We'll also explain why simply turning up the compressor pressure isn't always the answer.
Need help choosing the right compressed air system for your factory?
Airlinc Systems can help assess your pipework, airflow requirements and future expansion.
Airlinc Systems — Compressed Air & Piping Solutions
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