For decades, engineers have used black iron, galvanized steel, copper, or stainless steel for compressed air systems. And while many of these options, notably black iron, have performed decently and remained favorites in the compressed air community, they are no longer the most practical or cost-effective solution. Though black iron piping does feature a low upfront cost, the costs associated with installation, maintenance, and repair quickly add up.

For manufacturers and plant managers looking for a better solution, aluminum piping is quickly becoming the most sought-after compressed air piping material on the market. Here are 5 benefits of aluminum compressed air piping that make it the best choice for any compressed air system:

01. Low Installation Costs

Steel or iron pipe installation is hard work. The material itself is heavy and grimy to deal with. The installer needs to thread each length of steel pipe, often overhead. Because of the weight and cumbersome nature of iron and steel, they often require more than one expert to complete the installation.

Aluminum compressed air piping, on the other hand, is lightweight, durable, and simple to install. Key features that make aluminum piping installation easy include:

• Lightweight means only one technician is required for installation
• Simple push-in lock-and-seal installation doesn’t require threading, welding, gluing, or crimping.
• No special preparation or equipment required, other than standard cutting and deburring.

All of these features of aluminum compressed air piping work to drive down the total cost of installation, making it the most affordable option on the market.

02. Aluminum Compressed Air Piping is Less Likely to Leak

Given that aluminum compressed air piping doesn’t require threaded connections, it is much less likely to leak over time. The biggest problem with piping materials like iron and steel is that threaded connections will inevitably leak air. Air leaks are a costly problem that can significantly drive up your energy use.

By installing aluminum compressed air piping, you avoid the concern of leaks due to threaded connections altogether. The solid connection of aluminum piping also contributes to the overall longer lifespan of the system.

03. Exceptional Durability

Though aluminum is lightweight, that doesn’t mean it’s not durable. Aluminum can be expected to hold up just as long, if not longer than steel or iron piping systems. Systems like the one offered by Infinity Aluminum Piping provide marine-grade all-metal systems that can deliver exceptional durability for decades.

04. Aluminum Compressed Air Piping Doesn’t Corrode

Steel and copper pipes do eventually corrode over time. Even if your compressed air system makes use of a moisture trap, there will always be some moisture in the system, which will eventually lead to the corrosion and rusting of pipes. Even galvanized pipes, which are not typically galvanized on the interior, will begin to rust and corrode. This corrosion eventually leads to airflow restriction and can present air cleanliness problems.

Aluminum piping is naturally corrosion-resistant. Over time, your aluminum compressed air piping system will retain optimal airflow, providing better air quality and reduced energy costs overall.

05. An Affordable, Long-Term Investment

Perhaps the greatest benefit of aluminum compressed air piping is that it is an affordable, long-term investment. Though the cost for materials may be slightly higher than black iron or galvanized steel pipe, you’ll save as much as 50% on installation costs, and you’ll have installed a piping system that’s designed to last for years to come. With no threat of corrosion or leaks through threaded connections, there’s little maintenance that’s necessary for aluminum piping systems.

When you opt for a universal system like Infinity’s aluminum air compressor piping, you reap the added benefit of compatible pipe and fittings that can be reused again and again across your system.

Whether you’re looking to install a new compressed air system or upgrade the system you already have, aluminum is the best material for the job. A long term investment that’s quick and easy to install, aluminum will hold up without leaks or corrosion for years to come.

Interested in aluminum air compressor piping? TMI is a proud distributor of Infinity aluminum piping. With leak-free guaranteed connections and fittings that can be reused again and again, Infinity is the brand you can trust to eliminate air leaks in your system and provide long-term returns. For more information about Infinity or installing aluminum piping in your air compressor system, get in touch with the experts at TMI Compressed Air.

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