Aluminum Piping: SmartPipe Compressed Air Piping System

Kaeser's SmartPipe is a modular aluminum pipe for compressed air installations, offering both lower installation costs and lower long-term operating costs. From small shops to large industrial systems, SmartPipe is great for all facilities and is available in sizes up to 10" / 250 mm pipe diameter.

Optimum flow and air quality

SmartPipe's smooth calibrated aluminum construction has a low friction coefficient, providing the best possible laminar flow. Full bore fittings further minimize pressure drop for optimum flow and energy efficiency. Leak-free connectors prevent air loss and wasted energy.

SmartPipe is ideal for installations requiring the highest quality air. Aluminum material will not rust or corrode. Further, it has no rough surfaces or interior restrictions that accumulate contaminants. The smooth interior with full bore design allows them to flow to your dryers and filters for efficient removal.

SmartPipe Scope of Supply

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SmartPipe is available in eight sizes from 1/2" / 250 mm down to 10" / 20 mm and is perfect for use as headers, branch lines, and drops to point of use. The SmartPipe line includes all the accessories you need for a top quality installation: 

  • straight unions 
  • elbows and tees 
  • cross connectors 
  • reducing fittings 
  • gooseneck drops 
  • ball valves 
  • quick assembly brackets and hangers 
  • snap-shut pipe clips 
  • expansion and flex hoses 
  • variety of ISO 4414/EN983 compliant safety couplers

Easy installation

Fast to install and easy to modify, Kaeser SmartPipe is the most versatile compressed air distribution system available. Our combination of lightweight materials and connectors dramatically reduce labor and installation time, especially in overhead installations.

Other features include:

  • Installs faster than other common piping
  • No specialized trades needed
  • No threading, welding, or brazing pipe
  • Simple mounting and connecting hardware
  • Can connect to existing systems with other pipe types
  • Easy to add on to or disassemble for your changing needs
  • Bolt-on style fittings with conical ring from 110 to 250 mm
  • 10-year warranty

Piping selection directly affects the three key elements of every compressed air system: flow, pressure and air quality. Choices in piping also directly impact installation costs. The table below outlines some of the main advantages and disadvantages of each of the most common options.

Material Advantages Disadvantages
Black Iron
  • Moderate material costs
  • Available in multiple sizes
  • Labor intensive installation
  • May rust and leak
  • Rough inside promotes contaminant build-up and creates pressure drop
Galvanized Iron
  • Moderate material costs
  • Available in multiple sizes
  • Some rust protection
  • Often only exterior is coated
  • Labor intensive installation
  • Rough inside promotes contaminant build-up and creates pressure drop
  • May rust at joints and leak
Copper
  • No rust; good air quality
  • Smooth interior — low pressure drop
  • Requires quality brazing to prevent leaks
  • Susceptible to thermal cycling
  • Installation requires open flame
Stainless Steel
  • No rust, good air quality
  • Smooth interior - low pressure drop
  • Labor intensive installation
  • Expensive materials
PVC
  • Lightweight
  • Inexpensive
  • Lower safety
  • In certain areas, not compliant with some codes