Rigid PEX air lines

[FANTM58]

I’m sure this has been covered, buuuuut
I’m considering using rigid PEX pipe
For my air supply lines in my shop.
Using the shrink type fittings. Any thoughts
??? I have a 2 stage 80 gal BluePoint air compressor.
Running lines in my 40’x60’ shop.
How big of a concern is condensation .
Thanks
Robert H

 

[Rock knocker]

I don't think PEX comes as rigid pipe.

 

[rlitman]

I don't think PEX comes as rigid pipe.

It comes in sticks and rolls. The sticks are naturally straight, while the rolls have a bunch of memory. Still, neither is rigid.

 

[FANTM58]

Yea that’s what I meant , the straight pieces 20’ long
Plus it’s “blue” it will match my lift ..yay

 

[TurtleValley]

I am interested in opinions on this as well. I have a number of runs to do in my shop and was looking for the ups and downs of using PEX straight pipe as well.

 

[Lelandwelds]

I am a fan of PEX B!

I plan on black pipe or copper drops. Water doesn't hurt it but it isn't stable for multi year UV exposure. Oil sensitivity is uncertain. Actual burst pressure can be over 630 psi @ 70°F.
That Milwaukee tool is pricey! It is extremely easy to install, move, or splice into. Use something else at the compressor if it gets sun and heat.

 

[moparfreak]

I'm in the middle of a PEX compressed air line install right now, I've posted on it in my garage thread, so you can follow the progress on that if you'd like, it's the last few pages. I use a coil for short runs, and sticks for long runs just to make it easier to deal with. Using traditional crimp Pex A style, though PEX B is generally very well regarded as nearly the best joint you can make. I personally don't have the tools or experience with PEX B.

For condensation reasons I did install a heat exchanger on my compressor. Now what comes out of my pump going into the tank is ice cold, and dry. Pretty crazy.

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=254480

 

[79firebird]

I my self would go PEX-AL-PEX used that in a fue auto shops i helped plumb up was able to run 200psi no prob never had a prob ran full loops around the shop back to compressor so never had any drop in pressure well using more then one sander. my old work we had a 10 and 5 hp compressor plumbed in with it had no probs there even in the paint booth no probs with chemicals on it .

 

[Lelandwelds]

I my self would go PEX-AL-PEX used that in a fue auto shops i helped plumb up was able to run 200psi no prob never had a prob ran full loops around the shop back to compressor so never had any drop in pressure well using more then one sander. my old work we had a 10 and 5 hp compressor plumbed in with it had no probs there even in the paint booth no probs with chemicals on it .

I have plumbed oxygen with it. It works well except customers complain about crooked lines. I don't like the fittings as well.

 

[FANTM58]

What size ? 3/4” main with 1/2” drops ?

 

[Rock knocker]

I have plumbed oxygen with it

I wasn't aware that was an allowed use. If improperly done, that could be very dangerous.