Another important new trend for air compressor installations is the advent of the "quick connect" systems now available. These various systems avoid the need for welding, gluing or threading. That translates into speedier installations and less cost for labor

The various material choices represent advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into consideration when establishing a piping solution. For example, black galvanized pipe is a traditional material for piping installations. However, it requires a threaded or welded connection performed by experienced fitters. It also tends to rust with the corrosion affecting the quality of the compressed air.

Pressed or welded stainless steel is another alternative. It has the advantage of being clean, but its heavy weight and requirement of experienced fitters is a drawback.

Today, the advantages of lightweight, high-strength aluminum piping with the added benefit of quick disconnect capability is hard to beat. The product is clean, versatile, and cost-effective when overall installation planning costs are included.

Associated Agencies has been a leader in introducing alternative piping installation systems for its customers. Whether its compressed air, vacuum or inert gases such as nitrogen, TransAir from Parker - Legris is designed to meet special performance and installation requirements.

Advantages of Aluminum Quick Disconnect Piping Associated Agencies often recommends aluminum quick disconnect piping systems for its air compressor, vacuum and nitrogen generator systems. Associated Agencies has successfully installed piping in applications including automotive, chemical processing, electronics, engineering, food and beverage, packaging, pharmaceuticals and textiles.

Quick-connect systems are typically solid brass with a nickel-plated finish. This makes the system easy to use and install. Powder-coated aluminum pipes are light and easily handled during installation by one person. Unlike plastic piping systems (which Associated Agencies strongly discourages) aluminum

piping systems have proven reliable and durable. Some typical features include:

• Fittings can be disconnected and reconnected for reuse
• Leak-free connectors provide an immediate, unbreakable seal
• Lightweight piping remains unaffected by contaminants

Tanks Provide Adequate Storage While it is often overlooked, a proper tank and receiver system can contribute to improved reliability and efficiency. It is recommended that a wet tank be installed to provide a first stage of moisture separation and a dry tank downstream for true storage. Single tank systems should allow for three to five gallons of storage for every one cfm in air capacity. Wet tanks and multi-purpose tanks should include an automatic drain trap. Allowing water to build up in the tank can cause delivery and reliability problems.

Drain Traps Remove Moisture It's important to remove moisture but not at the expense of wasting precious compressed air. A proper drain trap will remove accumulated moisture from clean air treatment components, which contributes to efficient and reliable performance. Drain traps should be included on dryers, moisture removal filters and tanks. Capacitance-sensor actuated drains provide excellent value for the money. They open only when needed to release compressed air condensate but not valuable compressed air. In most communities it is not possible or desirable to for the moisture collected in these traps to be disposed of in municipal waste systems. Cartridge based condensate management systems provide an easy and economical solution to this problem.

Call Associated Agencies today to get help with your TransAir installation or upgrade of your compressed air system.