Selecting the right piping material for your compressed air system is a critical decision that impacts safety, efficiency, and long-term operating costs. With multiple options available on the market, from traditional black iron to modern aluminum compressed air piping systems, understanding the strengths and limitations of each material is essential for making an informed choice. Many people search for economical solutions like PEX piping, but this popular plumbing material presents serious safety risks when used with compressed air. This comprehensive guide examines all major piping materials for compressed air applications, with special attention to safety considerations and performance factors that affect your bottom line.

Can You Use PEX for Compressed Air? Addressing a Common Question.

One of the most frequently asked questions about compressed air systems involves using PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) piping. PEX has become extremely popular for residential plumbing due to its flexibility, ease of installation, and relatively low cost. This has led many workshop owners and small businesses to consider it for compressed air applications.

However, the answer is definitively clear: PEX pipe is NOT rated or safe for compressed air applications.

Unlike water, compressed air contains stored energy that can cause plastic pipes to rupture violently when they fail. While PEX might show pressure ratings of 100+ PSI for water applications, these ratings don't translate to air systems. When PEX fails in a compressed air system, it doesn't simply leak — it can shatter, sending sharp fragments flying at dangerous velocities.

The risk factors for using PEX with compressed air include:

• Degradation from compressor oils and condensate
• Material fatigue from pressure cycles
• UV and environmental degradation over time
• Inadequate connection integrity for air systems
  

No reputable compressed air system designer or installer would recommend PEX for these applications, regardless of the potential cost savings. The safety risks simply outweigh any short-term benefits.

Common Piping Materials for Compressed Air Systems

Traditional Black Iron Piping

Black iron is the most traditional material for compressed air piping, and many manufacturers still rely on it. Iron pipe uses traditional joins and must be installed by a plumber.

• Pros: Black iron is strong, durable and cost-effective, with easily available fittings.
• Cons: Iron requires a skilled plumber or welder to install. It is also very heavy, requiring extensive anchoring for suspended systems. Most critically, black iron is prone to leaks along joins and seams and is highly susceptible to corrosion, which can foul air lines and cause blockages and pressure drop.

While black iron remains common in older installations, its drawbacks have led many facilities to seek more efficient alternatives. The corrosion that develops inside black iron pipes not only reduces efficiency through increased friction but also introduces contamination into the air stream, potentially damaging pneumatic tools and equipment.

Galvanized Steel: A Limited Improvement

Galvanized steel is a step up from black iron piping for compressed air systems. Galvanized pipe is coated with zinc for added corrosion resistance. Like iron pipe, it must be fitted by a skilled plumber or welder.

• Pros: Galvanized steel pipes are durable and can withstand high pressures. They are relatively inexpensive and readily available. They can also resist corrosion to some extent.
• Cons: Over time, galvanized pipes can corrode from the inside, leading to reduced airflow and potentially contaminating the compressed air with rust particles. Installation can be labor-intensive, and they may require regular maintenance to prevent corrosion buildup.

The zinc coating in galvanized systems provides temporary protection but often deteriorates over time, especially at threaded connections where the coating is compromised during installation. Once corrosion begins, it can progress rapidly, leading to reduced system performance and potential contamination issues.

Plastic & Polyethylene (PE) Piping Options and Limitations

Plastic & polyethylene (PE) pipes are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and relatively inexpensive compared to metal pipes. However, they do not offer the safety or longevity of metal piping.

• Pros: PE is lightweight and very corrosion-resistant. Ideal for below ground direct burial applications.
• Cons: PE may not be suitable for high-pressure or high temperature applications. They are also susceptible to degradation from UV light exposure. Plastic pipes are not as durable as metal pipes, resulting in a shorter service life in a compressed air system. Typically PE systems are fused together, requiring special equipment for installation.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: PVC piping is NOT rated for use with compressed air and will shatter at high pressures, creating a risk of property damage, serious injury, or death.

The dangers associated with PVC mirror those of PEX — both materials can fail catastrophically under compressed air pressure. While there are some specialized engineered plastics rated for compressed air applications, these tend to be considerably more expensive than standard PVC or PEX and still typically offer lower pressure ratings than metal alternatives.

Even for specialty PE Pipes that are properly rated for compressed air, always verify the manufacturer's specific pressure ratings and installation requirements before proceeding.

Copper Piping for Compressed Air

Can copper pipe be used for compressed air? Copper piping is sometimes used for compressed air distribution, though it is another costly alternative. Lighter than black iron, copper also requires installation by a skilled plumber or pipefitter.

• Pros: Copper pipes are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and can handle high pressures.
• Cons: Copper pipes are more expensive than iron, galvanized steel, or aluminum, which can increase installation costs. Skilled labor for installation and changes can also be costly. Copper pipes may be susceptible to damage from acidic or alkaline substances. Fittings are typically soldered, brazed, or pressed onto the pipes making them not reusable.

Copper offers excellent corrosion resistance and smooth interior surfaces that minimize pressure drop, making it a good technical choice for compressed air systems. However, its high material cost and the requirement for skilled soldering or brazing during installation often make it economically impractical for larger systems.

Stainless Steel: When Is It Worth the Investment?

Stainless steel piping is a durable but costly alternative for a compressed air piping system. Stainless steel is sometimes recommended for food or pharmaceutical applications where compressed air is in direct contact with the product. It requires fitting by a skilled plumber or welder.

• Pros: Stainless steel compressed air pipes offer excellent corrosion resistance and are suitable for applications where cleanliness and purity of the compressed air are critical. They have a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance.
• Cons: Stainless steel pipes are the most expensive option among the materials listed here. They are also heavier than most other materials, which can make installation more challenging and costly.

For specialized applications where compressed air directly contacts food products or pharmaceuticals, stainless steel may be the preferred choice despite its cost. It offers superior cleanliness and can withstand aggressive cleaning protocols required in these industries.

Aluminum Piping: The Modern Solution for Compressed Air

Aluminum piping, such as Unipipe, is rapidly becoming one of the most popular options for compressed air systems. Aluminum piping offers an outstanding balance of light weight, corrosion resistance and ease of installation, making it an excellent choice for a compressed air piping system.

• Pros: Aluminum is lightweight and flexible, facilitating easy installation and modification. It is also highly corrosion-resistant, ensuring clean air delivery and system longevity. Unipipe aluminum compressed air piping systems are designed with specialized quick-clamp fittings, so they do not require skilled labor or welding to install. While aluminum has higher initial costs than black iron, galvanized steel, or plastic, savings on installation, maintenance, and energy efficiency can offset this.
• Cons: Although not everyone has heard of it yet, ‘blue pipe systems’ such as UNIPIPE have been around for years! Although it is getting better every day, pipes and fittings are not as readily available as traditional materials like iron or copper, that is often available at your local hardware store if needed.

The shift toward aluminum piping in industrial compressed air systems reflects a growing recognition of its superior performance characteristics and long-term economic benefits. Unlike traditional materials, aluminum provides a clean, efficient air delivery system that maintains its performance characteristics throughout its lifespan.

Modern aluminum systems also feature smooth interior surfaces that minimize friction and pressure drop, leading to greater energy efficiency compared to rough-surfaced alternatives like black iron. This efficiency advantage grows over time as traditional materials corrode and develop even rougher interior surfaces.

Aluminum vs. Other Materials: A Comprehensive Comparison

When evaluating piping materials for compressed air, it's important to consider all factors that affect performance and total cost of ownership:

Pressure Handling Capability

• Aluminum systems like UnipipeAIR are rated for standard industrial pressures up to 232 PSI.
• Black iron and galvanized steel typically offer similar pressure ratings.
  Copper and stainless steel can handle high pressures, but at significantly higher cost.
• PEX and PVC are unsafe for compressed air, regardless of their water pressure ratings.
  

Corrosion Resistance

• Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents ongoing corrosion.
• Stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance at a premium cost.
• Copper resists corrosion well, but can be affected by certain contaminants.
• Galvanized steel provides temporary protection that degrades over time.
• Black iron corrodes readily, particularly in moist environments.
  

Installation Complexity

• Aluminum systems with push-to-connect fittings can be installed without specialized skills.
• All metal alternatives require threading, welding, or soldering skills.
• Installation time for aluminum is typically 50-70% less than traditional materials.
  

System Weight

• Aluminum is approximately 1/3 the weight of steel, reducing structural support requirements.
• Lighter weight also simplifies handling and installation, particularly in elevated locations.
• Reduced weight can be particularly important in facilities with limited structural capacity.
  

Long-Term Maintenance

• Corrosion-resistant materials (aluminum, stainless steel) require minimal maintenance.
• Black iron and galvanized systems often need component replacement due to corrosion.
• Leak rates are typically much lower with aluminum systems than with threaded connections.
  

Leading the Aluminum Revolution

With a wide range of pipe sizes (3/4" to 10") and the highest-rated working pressures (up to 1015 PSI with UnipipeHP), Unipipe can meet even the most demanding project specifications.

The UnipipeAIR system represents the cutting edge in aluminum compressed air piping, with features specifically designed to maximize performance while minimizing installation costs:

• Quick-connect fittings that create secure, leak-free connections without special tools.
• Full range of components for comprehensive system design.
• Color-coded blue piping for easy system identification.
• Lightweight construction that reduces installation effort and structural requirements.
• Compatibility with existing systems through appropriate transition fittings.
• Smooth interior surface that maintains optimal flow characteristics throughout system life.
  

Aluminum piping systems from Unipipe are:

• Fast and easy to install or modify without specialized tools or skilled labor.
• Lightweight and easy to handle.
• Resistant to leaks and corrosion.
• Flexible and adaptable for any compressed air application.
• Durable and low maintenance for extended service life.
  

Best Practices for Compressed Air Piping Installation

System Design Fundamentals

Proper system design is essential for compressed air efficiency, regardless of piping material:

• Size main distribution lines generously to minimize pressure drop.
• Consider loop systems rather than linear runs for more consistent pressure.
• Install drain legs at low points to collect and remove condensate.
• Position takeoff points at the top of main lines to minimize moisture transfer.
• Include isolation valves to facilitate maintenance and system modifications.
• Consider future expansion needs when sizing main distribution lines.
  

Aluminum piping systems simplify many of these design considerations through their modularity and ease of modification, allowing systems to evolve with changing requirements.

Installation Tips for Optimal Performance

When installing any compressed air piping system, these practices will help ensure optimal performance:

• Support piping at appropriate intervals according to manufacturer's specifications.
• Allow for thermal expansion, particularly in systems with significant temperature variations.
• Ensure proper sealing of all connections — aluminum systems with O-ring seals typically provide superior results compared to threaded connections with sealant.
• Test the system for leaks before full operation.
• Document the system layout for future reference and modifications.
  

Aluminum systems with push-to-connect fittings dramatically simplify these installation processes compared to traditional materials, reducing both labor requirements and the potential for installation errors.

Special Applications and Considerations

High-Pressure Systems: When Standard Isn't Enough

For applications requiring pressures beyond standard industrial ranges, specialized systems like UnipipeHP provide solutions rated for pressures up to 1015 PSI. These high-pressure aluminum pipingsystems maintain the installation advantages of standard aluminum systems while providing the pressure capacity required for demanding applications.

Outdoor and Extreme Environment Installations

Compressed air systems installed outdoors or in extreme environments require special consideration:

• Both aluminum and stainless steel offer excellent resistance to environmental corrosion.
• Protection from direct UV exposure may be necessary for some installations.
• Freeze protection strategies should be implemented in cold climates.
• Additional condensate management may be required in high-humidity environments.
  

Aluminum's natural corrosion resistance makes it particularly well-suited for challenging environmental conditions, maintaining its performance characteristics without additional protective measures in most situations.

Converting Your System to Aluminum: The Process

Upgrading an Existing Iron or Steel System

Many facilities are transitioning from older iron or steel piping to modern aluminum systems.

New Installation Best Practices

For new compressed air installations, aluminum piping offers significant advantages:

• Simplified installation reduces labor costs and project timelines.
• No special tools or skills required for assembly.
• Reduced weight simplifies handling and mounting.
• System can be easily modified if requirements change.
• Excellent long-term performance minimizes maintenance requirements.
  

Working with suppliers who provide design support ensures optimal system configuration for your specific application requirements.

Conclusion: Making the Smart Choice for Your Compressed Air System

The performance advantages of aluminum, combined with its installation simplicity and long-term reliability, make it the clear winner for compressed air applications across virtually all industries. The higher initial material cost is consistently offset by reduced installation labor, improved system performance, and minimal maintenance requirements over the system's lifetime.

Most importantly, choosing aluminum eliminates the dangerous temptation to use inappropriate materials like PEX or PVC that present serious safety risks in compressed air applications. The peace of mind that comes with a properly designed and installed system using appropriate materials is invaluable.

Upgrade to a modern, durable aluminum piping system today!

If you're researching compressed air piping options, you've likely wondered: "How much does aluminum piping cost?" The answer might surprise you. While aluminum piping typically costs $6-15 per foot for materials compared to $4-8 for black iron, the total installed cost is substantially lower. For a medium-sized system (200' of 2" main piping with 10 air drops that have an isolation valve and two 1/2" connections), expect to pay $10,000-$20,000 for a fully installed aluminum piping systemversus $12,000-$24,000 for black iron, $18,000-$30,000 for copper, or $25,000-$40,000 for stainless steel.

In fact, factoring in the longevity, durability, and low maintenance of aluminum compressed air system piping, the total lifetime cost of ownership is unbeatable by anything else on the market. Let's break down the costs of the distribution piping material options and see why.

Real Cost Equation for Compressed Air Piping

When comparing the total lifetime costs of aluminum piping systems, such as the blue pipe systems offered by Unipipe, to those made of black iron, steel, or copper, several key factors must be considered. These factors will impact not just the initial installation costs but also the long-term expenses associated with maintenance, durability, and operational efficiency. Here's what you should keep in mind.

Comparing Initial Installation Costs: The Complete Picture

Material Costs: How Aluminum Compares to Traditional Options

Let's address the elephant in the room — yes, aluminum piping materials typically cost 20-30% more than black iron pipe on a per-foot basis. However, this price difference represents only a small portion of the total installation cost.

For example, aluminum piping materials for a medium-sized manufacturing facility might cost $7,000-$15,000, compared to $4,000-$8,000 for equivalent black iron materials. This difference is quickly offset by dramatic savings in other areas.

Labor Costs: Where the Real Savings Begin

Labor costs are where aluminum truly shines. Unipipe aluminum piping systems can be installed in half the time of black iron, steel, or copper, with no threading, grooving, welding, or soldering. That means the system does not require installation by a skilled plumber or welder, unlike iron, copper, or steel options. Aluminum piping systems are also lighter and easier to handle than iron or copper, which means fewer people required for handling and fewer anchors to install.

This labor advantage translates to substantial savings:

• No specialized plumbing or welding skills required.
• Installation time reduced by 40-60% compared to traditional methods.
• Fewer workers needed due to lightweight components.
• No specialized tools or equipment required.
• Clean installation with no cutting oils or thread sealants.
  

MaterialMaterial CostLabor CostTotalStainless Steel 304$11,170$12,000$23,170Copper Sweat$8,550$12,000$20,550Black Iron Schedule 40$4,050$12,000$16,050Unipipe$6,470$6,000$12,470

As this real-world example demonstrates, the total installed cost of an aluminum system is approximately 22% less than black iron, 39% less than copper, and 46% less than stainless steel — despite higher material costs. This mathematical reality challenges the conventional wisdom that aluminum piping is "expensive".

Durability and Corrosion Resistance: The Maintenance-Free Advantage

When looking at total cost of ownership for distribution piping, it’s also important to look at how long the system can be expected to last and how much maintenance will be required over its lifetime. Once again, aluminum performs exceptionally well — equal to stainless steel, at less than half the cost.

• Corrosion resistance: Aluminum pipe is naturally resistant to corrosion, which can significantly extend its lifespan and minimize the risk of leaks over the life of the system. Black iron is highly prone to rust, as is regular steel (though galvanized steel will last longer). Copper is generally corrosion-resistant but can be susceptible to certain types of corrosion, like pitting, when exposed to moisture or certain chemicals. Stainless steel, like aluminum, is long-lasting and corrosion-resistant, though at a substantially higher price.
• Maintenance requirements: Due to their resistance to corrosion and leaks, aluminum piping systems often require less maintenance over their lifetime. Black pipe, in particular, requires frequent leak repair and periodic replacement of leaky fittings or corroded pipe sections. Aluminum, in contrast, can be virtually maintenance-free for many years.

This maintenance difference creates significant long-term savings:

• Traditional systems typically require leak repair every 3-6 months.
• Corroded sections of black iron often need replacement within 5-10 years.
• Specialized contractors are needed for most repairs on traditional systems.
• System downtime during repairs impacts production and efficiency.
  

For a medium-sized facility, these maintenance activities can cost $1,500-$3,000 annually with traditional piping — costs that are virtually eliminated with aluminum systems.

Energy Efficiency: How Smooth Interior Walls Save You Money Year After Year

With energy costs representing 70-80% of the lifetime expense of operating a compressed air system, these efficiency gains quickly accumulate into major savings. For a system with a 50hp compressor, energy savings of 15% could translate to $3,000-$5,000 annually.

• Energy efficiency: Aluminum piping, with its smooth interior walls, minimizes pressure drops more effectively than black iron or steel, which can corrode and create rough surfaces inside the pipe. This efficiency can lead to lower energy costs for compressed air systems, as less energy is required to maintain the desired pressure.
• Leak resistance: Another factor for compressed air systems in particular is leak resistance. In the average compressed air system, about 30% of compressed air is wasted, much of it due to leaks in piping, especially at joins. Unipipe's unique grip ring system provides a virtually leak-free seal that is 5x more secure than other aluminum piping systems. That translates to less air loss and less energy used for compressed air production.

The energy impact is substantial:

• Air leaks typically waste 20-30% of compressed air in traditional systems.
• Rough interior surfaces in corroded pipes increase friction and pressure drop.
• Higher pressure drops require compressors to work harder, using more energy.
• Typical energy savings with aluminum systems range from 10-25% annually.
  

System Modification and Expansion

Aluminum piping systems are relatively easy to modify and expand due to their modular design and easy-connect fittings. Steel and black iron systems, on the other hand, may require cutting, threading, and welding for modifications, which can be more labor-intensive and costly. Copper offers some flexibility but typically requires soldering for modifications. Unipipe’s reusable clamp ring fittings make it simple to reconfigure or add to your distribution system with minimal cost and downtime.

Environmental Factors

Aluminum, steel, and copper are all highly recyclable materials, which can be a consideration in the total lifecycle cost and environmental impact of the piping system. The ease of recycling and the residual value of the material at the end of its life can offset some of the initial investment. Aluminum is one of the most recyclable materials available. Its recycling process is highly efficient, requiring only about 5% of the energy needed to produce the same amount of aluminum from raw bauxite ore. Recycled aluminum retains all its properties, meaning it can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality. This makes aluminum pipes an exceptionally sustainable choice for compressed air piping systems and other applications.

Case Study: Real-World Cost Comparison for Different System Sizes

Let's examine how these cost factors play out across different facility sizes:

Small Workshop Setup (500-1,000 sq ft)

For a small workshop with basic compressed air needs:

• Aluminum system materials: $1,500-$3,000
• Aluminum fully installed: $2,500-$5,000
• Black iron fully installed: $2,800-$5,500
• Initial savings: $300-$500
• Annual energy/maintenance savings: $300-$700
• 5-year total savings: $1,800-$4,000
• Payback period: 1-2 years

Medium Manufacturing Facility (5,000-10,000 sq ft)

For a medium-sized manufacturing operation:

• Aluminum system materials: $7,000-$15,000
• Aluminum fully installed: $10,000-$20,000
• Black iron fully installed: $12,000-$24,000
• Initial savings: $2,000-$4,000
• Annual energy/maintenance savings: $2,000-$5,000
• 5-year total savings: $12,000-$29,000
• Payback period: Immediate to 1 year

Large Industrial Installation (25,000+ sq ft)

For a large manufacturing facility:

• Aluminum system materials: $30,000-$100,000+
• Aluminum fully installed: $45,000-$150,000+
• Black iron fully installed: $60,000-$180,000+
• Initial savings: $15,000-$30,000+
• Annual energy/maintenance savings: $8,000-$25,000+
• 5-year total savings: $55,000-$155,000+
• Payback period: Immediate

These examples demonstrate that aluminum piping systems deliver immediate cost advantages for medium and large installations, with very quick payback periods even for smaller systems.

Financing Your Aluminum Piping System: Making the Smart Investment

For businesses concerned about the initial investment, several approaches can help manage budgets while capturing the long-term benefits of aluminum piping:

Phased Implementation

Many facilities begin by installing aluminum main lines while gradually replacing distribution lines as budget allows. This approach delivers immediate benefits in the most critical areas while spreading costs over time.

ROI-Based Prioritization

Focus first on areas with the highest leak rates, pressure drop issues, or maintenance problems. These high-priority segments will typically deliver the fastest return on investment, helping to fund subsequent phases.

Performance Contracting

Some suppliers offer performance contracting options where the system is paid for partially or entirely through documented energy savings, effectively making the upgrade budget-neutral.

Operational vs. Capital Budgeting

In many organizations, maintenance expenses come from operational budgets while system upgrades are capital expenses. Highlighting the shift from ongoing operational costs to one-time capital investment can help overcome budgetary objections.

Conclusion: Making the Economically Smart Choice

When comparing the total lifetime costs of Unipipe aluminum compressed air piping systems with black iron, steel, or copper piping systems, it's essential to look beyond initial expenses and consider factors like durability, maintenance, operational efficiency, and the potential for system modifications. Aluminum piping from Unipipe offers a compelling combination of low maintenance, high durability, and efficiency that can lead to cost savings over the system's life, making it an attractive option for many applications.

For most facilities, these advantages make aluminum piping not just a premium option, but the most economical choice for compressed air distribution. The initial perception of aluminum as "expensive" simply doesn't hold up to comprehensive cost analysis.

Ready to explore how much you could save with an aluminum compressed air piping system? Contact us for a customized quote based on your specific requirements and facility layout.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aluminum Piping Costs

How much more expensive is aluminum piping material compared to black iron?

Aluminum piping material typically costs 20-30% more than black iron on a per-foot basis. However, when accounting for installation labor, the total installed cost is actually 15-25% lower for aluminum systems.

What is the typical payback period for an aluminum piping system?

For medium to large installations, aluminum systems often provide immediate savings through reduced installation costs. For smaller systems, typical payback periods range from 1-3 years through energy and maintenance savings.

Can I install aluminum piping myself to save on labor costs?

Yes, aluminum piping systems with push-to-connect fittings can often be installed by maintenance staff without specialized plumbing or welding skills, further enhancing cost advantages.

What ongoing maintenance costs should I expect with an aluminum system?

Aluminum systems require minimal maintenance, typically limited to occasional leak inspections and standard system checks. Most systems operate for decades without requiring component replacement.

How do I calculate my potential energy savings with aluminum piping?

Energy savings typically range from 10-25% of compressed air system operating costs, depending on the condition of your existing system. For a specific estimate, consider a compressed air audit that measures current leak rates and pressure drops.

Unipipe aluminum pipe systems can be used for a wide range of applications, including compressed air systems, vacuum systems and nitrogen or inert gas distribution. Why choose aluminum for compressed air system piping? We’ve got ten great reasons for you.

1. Superior Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion is a major problem in iron or mild steel piping, leading to system leaks, blockages, reduced airflow and loss of pipe integrity. In addition, a buildup of corrosion in the piping system can contaminate compressed air, gas or fluid streams with debris and rust particles, compromising air quality and causing damage to downstream equipment and processes. Aluminum pipes are inherently resistant to corrosion, even in harsh environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals or corrosive substances is common, leading to better air quality and reduced energy costs.

2. Smooth Interior Surface and Enhanced Air Quality

Aluminum air pipes typically have a smooth interior surface, which minimizes friction and pressure drop as air or fluids flow through the system. This results in more efficient operation and reduced energy consumption compared to piping materials with rougher surfaces, including galvanized steel. The smooth surface of aluminum pipe systems also prevents buildup of debris, scale and contaminants inside the pipes, maintaining consistent flow rates and improving overall system performance.

3. Lightweight for Easy Handling and Installation

Unipipe aluminum pipe systems are significantly lighter than traditional metal piping such as a black iron or stainless steel pipe system, making it easier to handle, transport and install. This lightweight construction reduces labor costs and installation time, especially in overhead or elevated applications. The lightweight nature of aluminum piping also makes it suitable for portable or mobile applications where weight is a concern, such as remote locations or temporary setups. Unipipe is 75% lighter than iron pipe, so fewer anchors are needed, and pipes up to 6” in diameter can be easily handled by a single person.

4. Low Maintenance Requirements

Due to its corrosion resistance and durable construction, aluminum pipe from Unipipe requires minimal maintenance over its lifespan compared to black iron or copper pipe systems. Routine inspections and cleaning are typically sufficient to keep the system operating at optimal performance, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. The low maintenance requirements of aluminum piping make it a cost-effective and hassle-free solution for compressed air, fluid or gas distribution systems in industrial settings.

5. Secure, Leak-Free Connections

Modern blue pipe systems utilize push-to-connect or quick-connect aluminum pipe fittings, providing secure and leak-free connections in a pressurized system without the need for welding or threading. This ensures airtight seals, minimizing system leaks and improving efficiency and performance. The leak-free aluminum pipe fittings help minimize energy losses, resulting in lower operating costs and improved productivity. Unipipe’s proprietary clamp-and-ring design provides a secure 360° connection that is five times more secure than other aluminum piping systems on the market.

6. Quick and Easy Installation for Lower Installation Costs

Installation of black iron, copper, and stainless steel piping systems typically involves welded, soldered or threaded connections, which require skilled workers and specialized tools and expertise. This drives up labor costs and installation timelines. Compared to other materials for compressed air, aluminum pipe systems are modular, easy to install with basic tools, and do not require any hot work. The lightweight construction and push-to-connect fittings make installation quick and straightforward, lowering installation costs and downtime during system setup. Unipipe’s unique clamp system was designed to speed up installation; a Unipipe aluminum air pipe system can be installed in about ½ the time of traditional iron piping and ¼ of the time of copper piping!

7. Uncompromised Safety

Aluminum air pipe is safe for use in compressed air, fluid or gas distribution systems. Unlike certain plastics or metals, aluminum does not leach harmful chemicals or contaminants into the conveyed materials. It is also a strong and durable material, capable of withstanding high pressures safely. Plastics degrade over time, increasing the cost of a dangerous rupture (which is why some plastics, such as PVC, cannot be used for compressed air or gas piping). Unipipe’s aluminum pipe systems hold up over time, even in harsh conditions, for a safe and reliable system for transporting high-pressured air. UnpipeHP has the highest-rated working pressure available and is safe for gas or fluid applications up to 1015 PSI.

8. Flexibility for Customization and Remodeling

The flexibility of Unipipe aluminum air piping enables customization of system designs, adaptation to space constraints, and integration with existing infrastructure, providing versatility and efficiency in various applications across industries and settings. Aluminum piping systems are modular and easily configurable, allowing for flexible layouts and modifications to accommodate changing needs or expansion of compressed air, fluid or gas distribution systems.

9. Lower Lifetime Costs

While aluminum piping systems may have a higher initial cost compared to traditional metal pipes, their lower maintenance requirements, improved energy efficiency, durability and longevity can result in lower lifetime costs over the lifespan of the system. Factors such as reduced labor costsduring installation, energy savings, minimal maintenance and longer service life contribute to the overall cost-effectiveness of aluminum piping systems compared to traditional metal pipes. When considering lifetime costs, aluminum piping systems offer a favorable return on investment that makes them the preferred choice for many applications.

10. Commitment to Sustainability

Aluminum is a recyclable material, making it an environmentally friendly choice for compressed air, fluid, or gas distribution systems. Additionally, aluminum piping requires fewer resources for manufacturing and disposal compared to other various piping materials. By choosing aluminum piping, companies can contribute to sustainability efforts and reduce their environmental footprint.

Benefits of Aluminum Pipe vs. Black Iron, Copper, Steel and Plastic

How does aluminum piping compare with other pipe material alternatives? Here is a summary of some of the benefits of aluminum pipe vs. black iron, steel, plastic or copper alternatives for compressed air pipeline systems and other applications. 

Where Are Aluminum Piping Systems Used?

Aluminum piping offers numerous benefits for compressed air systems, nitrogen or inert gas transport, and other forms of fluid delivery. That’s why most compressed air installations today, along with other pressurized gas delivery systems, are moving to affordable and versatile blue pipe systems made of aluminum. Aluminum pipe systems are widely used throughout the manufacturing industry, including general and automotive manufacturing, aerospace industry applications, textile production, and more. Blue pipe systems are also used in the energy sector for various gas and fluid conveyance applications. Because aluminum piping doesn’t corrode, it is also suitable for applications requiring high air quality, such as food processing and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Ready to Switch to Aluminum Pipe from Unipipe?

Blueline Air Systems is your local distributor of safe, efficient aluminum piping systems for compressed air, nitrogen, vacuum and high-pressure gases and fluids. We work with manufacturers, resellers and installers all over the country on both new builds and retrofit piping systems.

Yes, Unipipe aluminum piping can be used for oxygen (O2). Aluminum pipe is highly durable, corrosion-resistant and clean, making it an excellent choice for O2 and other reactive gases. We offer a “clean-and-bag” program for oxygen piping systems, which removes all residual oils from manufacturing to ensure safety and compliance. Contact us to ask about our clean-and-bag program for oxygen piping.