Ask the Expert: We do not seem to have enough air to run some tools, so what is the problem?

Always use the largest pipe that's recommended for your shop.

March 5, 2015

Sandy Allen, National Sales Manager, SP Air Corporation

Q: We have a 25hp air compressor in our shop with five techs, and we do not seem to have enough air to run some tools. What is the problem?

A: Usually when the air compressor is installed, the installer doesn’t realize that the delivery hole or bung size is what the manufacture recommends you pipe the shop with. If it was a 1” outlet, usually it is necked down to 3/4” or smaller. This restricts the CFM the compressor can deliver. Always use the largest pipe recommended: 1/2” pipe will deliver up to 40 CFM only 50', 3/4” will deliver up 60 CFM 50', 1” will deliver the 70-75 CFM up to 200'. You can increase the CFM delivery by increasing the pipe size.

Information provided by: SP Air Corporation