SmartPipe: Aluminum piping for compressed air systems

Aluminum Piping: SmartPipe Compressed Air Piping System

Kaeser's SmartPipe™ is a modular aluminum pipe for compressed air installations, offering both lower installation costs and lower long-term operating costs. From small shops to large industrial systems, SmartPipe is great for all facilities and is available in sizes up to 8" pipe diameter.

Optimum flow and air quality

SmartPipe's smooth calibrated aluminum construction has a low friction coefficient, providing the best possible laminar flow. Full bore fittings further minimize pressure drop for optimum flow and energy efficiency. Leak-free connectors prevent air loss and wasted energy.

SmartPipe is ideal for installations requiring the highest quality air. Aluminum material will not rust or corrode. Further, it has no rough surfaces or interior restrictions that accumulate contaminants. The smooth interior with full bore design allows them to flow to your dryers and filters for efficient removal.

SmartPipe Scope of Supply

SmartPipe is available in eight sizes from 168 mm down to 20 mm and is perfect for use as headers, branch lines, and drops to point of use. The SmartPipe line includes all the accessories you need for a top quality installation:

straight unions
elbows and tees
cross connectors
reducing fittings
gooseneck drops
ball valves
quick assembly brackets and hangers
snap-shut pipe clips
expansion and flex hoses
variety of ISO 4414/EN983 compliant safety couplers

Easy installation

SmartPipe fittings, compressed air piping

Fast to install and easy to modify, Kaeser SmartPipe is the most versatile compressed air distribution system available. Our combination of lightweight materials and connectors dramatically reduce labor and installation time, especially in overhead installations.

Other features include:

Installs faster than other common piping
No specialized trades needed
No threading, welding, or brazing pipe
Simple mounting and connecting hardware
Can connect to existing systems with other pipe types
Easy to add on to or disassemble for your changing needs

Common piping materials: advantages and disadvantages

Piping selection directly affects the three key elements of every compressed air system: flow, pressure and air quality. Choices in piping also directly impact installation costs. The table below outlines some of the main advantages and disadvantages of each of the most common options.

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Black Iron	Moderate material costs Available in multiple sizes	Labor intensive installation May rust and leak Rough inside promotes contaminant build-up and creates pressure drop
Galvanized Iron	Moderate material costs Available in multiple sizes Some rust protection	Often only exterior is coated Labor intensive installation Rough inside promotes contaminant build-up and creates pressure drop May rust at joints and leak
Copper	No rust; good air quality Smooth interior — low pressure drop	Requires quality brazing to prevent leaks Susceptible to thermal cycling Installation requires open flame
Stainless Steel	No rust, good air quality Smooth interior - low pressure drop	Labor intensive installation Expensive materials
PVC	Lightweight Inexpensive	Lower safety In certain areas, not compliant with some codes Carries static charge Subject to bursting Adhesives not compatible with compressor oils
Aluminum	Corrosion resistant Lightweight Easy to install Lower cost of ownership	Limited pressure ratings Material costs