Thread: PVC for shop air lines

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Someone mentioned to me that you could use regular schedule 40 PVC pipe (3/4"-1") to plumb air lines from your compressor around your shop. Anyone ever seen or done this? Seems feasible if I am only running 150 lbs or so...thoughts?

I tried to search on this topic here, but the words "AIR" and "PVC" are too short and excluded from searches.

Biggest drawback to PVC is it is brittle and can burst in use and send sharp little missiles about. Here's a good article that mentions other type plastic alternatives:http://www.hydraulicspneumatics.com/...lse/6547/Issue

Like Bob said, watch out for flyin chunks of PVC.
Do Copper, you'll only do it once and it will last 4ever.
Call a plumber and ask him, he'll tell ya the same thing.
Had copper in my last shop (22 years)
Have copper in new shop (10 years)
Never had a problem.

Thx guys...Ill do copper. I can sweat pipes myself and have a small garage, so it should be a piece of cake.

I know several guys that have pvc in their shops and never had a problem. I was thinking of going with it also but now I'm not sure after reading this. I think we need some more info on this topic.

Interesting subject..I was using alkathene,which we use as a water pipe,30mm OD,3mm wall thickness,screw together fittings,the same as plumbers use,was told its a good cheaper alternative to galv pipe..It is,,works great,and easy to set up and dismantle,has a variety of fittings for water traps etc,handles 150psi,worked for me at the last shop,havent installed it here yet,as I only have 75 square metres here.

Originally Posted by AllStitchedOut

I know several guys that have pvc in their shops and never had a problem. I was thinking of going with it also but now I'm not sure after reading this. I think we need some more info on this topic.

Maybe you should read the link I attached. Even the manufacturers of PVC don't recommend it without a protective sheath. The guys you know have been fortunate. If copper (my choice too)or iron bursts, it merely splits, no projectiles. Makes your choices, takes your chances.

I think I will look into some copper. Thanks

I would not use it.

If I HAD to I would use schedule 80 and put it in a rubber hose or give it 4 half-lap wraps of duct tape including the joints.

But then I wouldn't.

Kitz

I ggogled the hell out of this subject and it seems everyone and their brother warns about the dangers of PVC, but it seems to be more of an urban legend. PVC holds water for years under pressure and heat without problems and I would not be afraid to use it. But since I also feel competent working with copper, that's the route Ill be taking.

http://torque1st.clubfte.com/OSHA_PVC_Pipe.htm

I had PVC - Sch 80, I believe. It blew apart at a joint - my fault, poor prep and glue job. When I took the rest down, every joint shattered tho the lengths between them was strong and flexible. I suspect the solvents in the glue attacked the PVC. I have copper now.

I've had the same sch 40 in my shop for 29 years now. only times it's broken was when I hooked a line with the hose or ran into it with something. but then I only keep my air set at 95-100 pounds. If I were doing it again I'd use galvanized or copper however, as the plastic maks a BIG bang when it breaks. an old fart like me could have a heart attack the next time

Russ

I still use good old water pipe, seen the mes when a plastic ones break...fortunately nobody hurt from the shrapnel!

I got black iron water pipe. been up for a few years now w/o issue