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new air compressor, what size hard lines to run?

resq302

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So I'm setting up my garage in my new house that we got last year. I just upgraded to a 60 gallon 220 volt belt drive oiled type air compressor and was wondering what size hard air line I should run from my shed where the air compressor is into my garage. I currently have a 3/8" rubber line with 1/4" tool fittings. I'm aware that the larger the size piping, the greater volume I would get which would benefit the tools more so than the typical rubber line. My choices are 1/2" OD and 3/8" ID, 5/8" OD and 1/2" ID and I think anything larger would be too much for what I'd be doing as a hobby. They have 3/4" and 1" hard lines but I think that is a huge over kill. With that being said, I upgraded my compressor from a 30 gal. to the 60 gal. as my sand blasting cabinet had the old compressor constantly running. The 60 gal. works perfectly for the amount of blasting that I do.

Anyone who has done this sort of thing to their garage, any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Brian
 
My concern was if it is run the length over to my second bay would it still have enough pressure at the far coupling for the rubber line.
 
I agree with 1/2 inch as being pleanty. The cost difference to go with 3/8 is minimal and going with 5/8 or larger is for production shops that feed multiple tools at the same time. --Its all about flow-cfm as far as your tools are concerned.
PSI is kinda like horsepower. Flow (cfm)is kinda like torque.
Torque does the work and horsepower tells you how much work has been done per min.
 
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ok, so the 1/2" ID and 5/8" OD would be my best bet. Thats what I was thinking since the rubber flexible line is 3/8" and 1/4" fittings
 
Well it’s also volumn.Keep 1/2” as far as you can. Big shops usually run 3/4-1” till the end at a wall. Sanders, cut-offs,etc. suck up a lot real quick.
 
If you plan on sandblasting and painting at the same time in your home shop I would up the size to 5/8 and get a bigger compressor.
 
I just upgraded to the 60 gal and it seems to be suiting my needs. That was also with running a 3/8" rubber line from the compressor to the blasting cabinet as I have to set the pressure at the cabinet to 100 psi max. I'm not planning on painting any large projects like an outside of a car. Maybe cut in areas like door jambs or engine compartments or door panels and that sort.
 
The CFM rating of your compressor will give you the info you need for your tasks. The gallon size of the tank gives you -hang time- for when you may sometimes use too much at once. A big tank gives the compressor a break.
 
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  • 60 GAL, 155-PSI vertical electric air compressor is ideal for projects like rotating tires, repairing engines, sharpening blades, sanding wood and installing trim
  • Powerful 240-volt, 3.7-HP motor provides 11.5-CFM at 90-PSI to power a variety of air tools for woodworking and automotive restoration jobs
  • Cast-iron, oil-lubricated twin cylinder pump is designed for up to 5,000 hours of use, so you have the power to complete all your garage and workshop projects

Put in 1/2" lines.--Cost diff for 3/8" is minimal. Move on.
 
just so I understand. 1/2" ID or OD?

In your case it does not matter. Go big and don't look back.
Tell the guy you want 1/2" and you will see what that is.

Wait--I have to pull back ---sorry. I apologize.
I would not do well helping you at Home Depot.
Maybe someone else can step in and help?
 
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My conscience is pestering me.

resq302---1/2" (in your case) is about 1/2" ID. It can indeed be a confusing world on this topic. (pipe sizes vs tubing sizes)
My point was that 3/8" is fine. 1/2" is extra.
With a tape measure (or scale) in hand, one can learn in real time (aside from the internet) what the meaning of size is all about. I know this is "old school stuff" but it really works.
 
I understand. I just wanted to clarify that we were both on the same page with going for the ID of 1/2". Some people say one thing and others interpret it as another. There is a significant size difference between ID and OD for a 1/2". Just like using a band clamp on exhaust systems, you need to know which measurement you are talking about otherwise it will be too loose or way too tight and you'll never get it on.
 
I understand. I just wanted to clarify that we were both on the same page with going for the ID of 1/2". Some people say one thing and others interpret it as another. There is a significant size difference between ID and OD for a 1/2". Just like using a band clamp on exhaust systems, you need to know which measurement you are talking about otherwise it will be too loose or way too tight and you'll never get it on.


You got it. ----Some stuff fits when dimensions say they will. But when dimensions say they will not fit they will not.
Measuring and math are our friends.
 
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Tubing measures outside dimension OD,black pipe measures inside dimension ID. Standard A-53 wheatland 3/4" pipe is probably one of the most used all around dims. and is basically in every hardware store with all the different fittings and reducers. To me I would rather plumb 3/4" than 1/2 or3/8 any day plus you will have a lot more air volume until you reduce it down to 3/8 id hose and it does make a big difference. Don't forget to get a can of rector seal at the plumb store. good luck. Don't forget your drip legs and reduce down to 3/8 ball valves for cost on your cleanouts just before the filter and regulators. It also doesn't hurt to install another BRASS popoff some where.
 
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