AIRnet makes all the right connections

Pressure drop can represent a major source of waste during the working life of a compressed air installation – a 3mm diameter hole anywhere within a galvanised steel distribution network caused by corrosion can mean a compressor using an additional 4kW of power to maintain system pressure. Not only that, but steel pipe is heavy, its threaded joints require careful preparation, and its inner surfaces are not smooth. As a result, this restricts flow and promotes pressure drop, which equates to energy loss.

Atlas Copco’s AIRnet modular system of corrosion-resistant anodised aluminium pipes are highly durable and feature self-aligning, fully sealed polymer fittings with integrated O-rings that eliminate any possibility of leaks.

AIRnet is the only system to offer pipework with smooth, anodised internal surfaces as standard which can cut friction factor by 50% and add further internal surface protection. The smooth bore fittings design features full diameter and internal fin guides to eliminate air flow restriction and turbulence, maintain the desired flow rate and guarantee the lowest possible pressure drop. In turn, this means reduced loading pressure at the compressor and consequent lower power consumption. A pressure drop reduction of 1 bar results in 7% energy savings of an application’s total compressor installed power. This feature also performs a vital role in ensuring that the air supply is kept clean to protect downstream equipment and sensitive production processes.

AIRnet pipework is lightweight and, size for size, it weighs 5 times less than its steel equivalent. It is robust, quick and easy to install and fitting only takes about one third of the time compared to that for a conventional system. There is no time-consuming screw cutting and no need for any special tools or lifting equipment. AIRnet pipe can be simply pushed into the polymer fitting, tightened by hand and secured with a spanner. When the aluminium AIRnet pipe is cut to size, there is no risk of corrosion to the exposed metal and thus no risk of leakage.

Resistant to mechanical shocks, fire, thermal variations and outdoor weather conditions, AIRnet is compatible with any existing pipework and equipment types.

It can be attached to walls, fastened to ceilings and beams, and modifying an AIRnet network is a simple procedure. The fittings and pipe network can be customised, extended, disconnected, reconnected and re-used many times meaning that air consumption points can be added easily and at any time to the system.

By providing consistent clean quality air, the AIRnet system ensures longevity of downstream equipment and increases the lifetime of filtration elements. In line with the high quality performance of the AIRnet product range, Atlas Copco provides a 10 year guarantee for its AIRnet fittings and aluminium pipes against any damages resulting from material defect.

In delivering quality air exactly where it is needed, at the right pressure and at the lowest possible cost, Atlas Copco‘s innovative AIRnet compressed air piping system contributes substantially to energy savings, air quality and the production efficiency of any compressed air application.