air system

[clawman]

My new shop is just framed but not finished. I am considering installing a Rapidair system in the walls. Of course the first thing I think of is leaks inside the walls. EEEK!
It would be a clean install to have the airlines inside the walls but what might be the consequences.
Thoughts?

 

[marinusdees]

My 40' x 40' is plumbed rather extensively with black iron pipe 3/4" and 1/2" inside the sheetrock and above the trusses. 27 years, no leaks yet. Unlike a water system, what are the consequences of a small leak??? I am reasonably sure the only leaks are at the air couplers. They all will leak, eventually. I shut off my 5 hp compressor when not in the shop. My smaller one, a repurposed dental unit with two 3/4 hp heads is on 24/7 to maintain at least 80 psi. All for 27 years. I'm currently 80 years old. I think this system will be here when I'm not.
PS I cut and hand threaded this system myself.

 

[budco]

Did all mine with copper pipe, wasn't as expensive as some people post on here. Ran lines though out my 40x30 and it looks pretty too....

 

[BADSIX]

Did all mine with copper pipe, wasn't as expensive as some people post on here. Ran lines though out my 40x30 and it looks pretty too....

ME TO, its easy to work with and really not that expensive and no leaks.
Jay D.

 

[NUTTSGT]

Do it right, test it before you close it in and you shouldn't have any problems. The biggest problem for me would be the thought of rearranging the shop or the need to add a drop somewhere and have to open up the wall.

 

[ItsNemo]

Air is one of those things that just don't belong behind the walls.

 

[clawman]

The Rapidair system includes vinyl tubing.

 

[Lelandwelds]

The Rapidair system includes vinyl tubing.

I think it is nylon.

 

[PT Doc]

Look at Prevost rigid piping. Very slick system with all,the fittings that anyone could want. Would make for a clean install on the upper wall and would allow for access if you needed it.