Compressed air and industrial gases – sourcing piping
In short: for compressed air and industrial gases, the choice depends on purity, pressure and environment.
- Stainless steel (1.4301 / 1.4404): where air purity and corrosion resistance matter.
- Carbon steel (P235TR1, A53): for general, non-critical networks.
- Electropolished, nitrogen-filled stainless tube: for high-purity gases.
This guide is for maintenance staff and buyers in factories, workshops and laboratories.
What matters in a compressed-air network
- Purity. Carbon-steel pipe can rust internally from condensate, and the particles contaminate the air. That is why stainless steel is common in food, pharmaceutical and paint shops.
- Pressure loss. A smooth bore and correct sizing reduce energy loss.
- Leakage. Welded and good-quality threaded joints reduce leakage, one of the main energy losses in compressed-air systems.
Material overview
| System | Typical material | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| General plant compressed air | P235TR1, ASTM A53 Gr. B | EN 10216-1 / EN 10217-1 |
| Clean compressed air, food and pharma | 1.4301 / 1.4404 | EN 10217-7, EN 10312 |
| Industrial gases (nitrogen, argon, CO₂) | 1.4404 | EN 10216-5 / EN 10217-7 |
| High-purity and lab gases | 316L, electropolished, N₂-filled | ASTM A269 / A270 |
Oxygen lines are subject to separate cleanliness and material rules. The designer always sets these.
The complete package
- Pipes as above.
- Fittings: butt-weld and forged (socket-weld, threaded).
- Flanges, gaskets, fasteners.
- Valves: ball valves, pressure regulators, filters, safety valves.
- Pipe fixing: U-bolts, clamps.
Buyer checklist
- Medium and purity requirement.
- Working pressure.
- Material and standard.
- Joining method: welded, threaded, pressed.
- Valves: type and size.
- Cleaning and packaging requirements for gas lines.
Common mistakes
- Carbon-steel pipe in clean-air applications.
- Tubing not cleaned for gas service in high-purity gas lines.
- Mixed-material fasteners that cause galvanic corrosion.
Frequently asked questions
Stainless or carbon steel for compressed air?
Stainless is better for clean air and long life. In a general workshop network, carbon steel may be adequate.
Do you supply tubing for high-purity gases?
Yes. We supply electropolished, oil- and grease-free, nitrogen-filled tubes and fittings.
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Related: Stainless steel pipes · Line pipes & general steel pipes · Forged fittings · Hygienic & UHP tubes
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