Multiple Compressor Line Drops-Filters/Regulators at Every Drop?

[Winmon]

Hey guys, I am working on finishing my compressor set up. I have 3 drop lines off the main line. At this point I will be using each drop just for basic air needs (tools and straight air) w/ none used for painting at this time.

I will need to put a filter/regulator at all 3 drops, correct?

 

[mikeyr]

Yes, I would (and did).

The other option is to regulate at the compressor and only need to buy one regulator, but then you walk back and forth each time you want to change pressure.

 

[930dreamer]

From the tank I run full pressure (160psi) through all the black pipe across the shop to (1) one filter/regulator and a coalescing filter. I then reduce the pressure to 90 psi to all drops off of the regulator.

 

[creativecars]

Yes, these filter regulators are what I like, there is a drain valve at the bottom to drain moisture from that drop. I also like them because there are places for 2 air hoses. I attach one 25’ hose directly and use another 25’ hose with a quick coupler on the other side. If I need a longer hose I can take the one side off and couple it to the other. I can have my kids help with projects that way.
http://www.autobodytoolmart.com/sharpe-880a-air-control-unit-6950-p-11925.aspx
there are also cheaper copies out there.

 

[Winmon]

Thanks guys!

 

[stonesfan68]

You would be better off investing in an industrial-grade moisture separator, coalescing filter and pressure regulator. Install them downstream of the compressor. In comparison to paying for and installing three of the point of use filter/regulators the higher quality devices are a much better solution.

 

[HTGTS350]

Ive only got the reg on the compressor but I do have a small reg that can go on the end of the line if I feel I need it, like when using hvlp spray guns.

 

[byoungblood]

It really depends on your individual setup. I just have a standard 2 car garage and two drops, so it isn't a big deal for me to walk over to the compressor to adjust the pressure, so I have a single regulator/filter.

 

[sasky]

I have a filter right by by the compressor, then just have a couple small regs with a couple foot whip hose and quick connects. Move them to where I will be running tools off of.

 

[MG44]

My compressor runs at 160psi with no regulators. Do you have some super sensitive equipment you need to regulate?

My SnapOn Air Hammers hit harder and impacts work much better with pressure turned up. For nearly 8 years I have done this with everyday use equipment: tire machines, air hammers, impacts, grinders, etc... and no damage to tools. A tech turned the pressure down once, but the other guys complained the bead breaker on the tire machines didn't have enough power, so up it went again.

 

[Winmon]

My compressor runs at 160psi with no regulators. Do you have some super sensitive equipment you need to regulate?

No sensitive equipment, I just assumed it had to be regulated for different type of tools.

The set -up I have has a fair amount of run on the lines. The compressor will be located behind the shop so it is about 5' to the shop. Then once inside the shop it is probably 20' across the back wall (have a drop here), then goes down side wall 40' (another drop midway down wall) and then goes back across the front about 20' to last drop. Also before it feeds down to the drops, I have the line going up about 6" off the main line then down to the drop. So, hopefully moisture will be lessened by the length of the run and going up off the main line before going to the drop.

 

[R6 Racer]

I have a filter/regulator & coalescing filter at the end of the 1 line that runs to my blast cabinet. I use that line for air tools, painting & blasting. I have another line that runs to the front by the big doors that has neither. That line is used for blowing air, filling tires, blowing out sprinkler lines in the fall, etc. & is at full compressor tank pressure. My 3rd line goes to my wood shop & has and a coalescing filter & a regulator.
It's like byoungblood said "It really depends on your individual setup". That's just my setup for my situation.

Steve