If you’ve decided to make an air tool purchase, before you
place that order, think about your current air compressor. Do you need a new
one and if so, which one is right for you? Here are a couple of points to
consider: will it be used for consumer DIY jobs, professional contractor
applications or the more weighty commercial/industrial work? A second important
factor is the frequency of use. Will it be used occasionally or every day? What
are the spacing requirements – can it be moved? Consider the level of noise,
your electrical requirements, accessories, ease of maintenance, parts and the
availability of service. In addition, before purchasing accessories for your
air tools, find out the inlet size, inlet type (NPT or BSP), air consumption
(dynamic pressure) and hose diameter.
Now that you have the right air compressor, tools and
accessories you need for the job (you can also take a look at what
International Air
Tool and Industrial Supply
has to offer), don’t hesitate to ask us
questions. It’s highly important that an air tool operator has a good understanding
of the vocabulary and specifications of the air network before starting a
project. This is also necessary to get the maximum production out of your tools.
There are two essential points to always keep in mind:
- The dynamic air pressure of 90 psi/ 6.3 bars at
the tool inlet - The air-flow recommendation of the tools’
manufacturers
Tool manufacturers use “torque”, “air consumption”, and “maintenance
cycles” which are measured with a standard dynamic air pressure of 90 psi
(pounds per square inch) /6.3 bars. This is a reference to the pressure
required at the tool inlet. To ensure the best productivity and energy savings,
the pressure drops that occur in the section between the pipe-end and the tool
should be kept to a minimum.
Make sure to choose the right
FRL (filter, regulator and lubricator). One FRL per tool is recommended and make sure the lubricator is
topped up with oil. If you are unsure, the consultants at
IATIS
can help you. Remember, every airline accessory can create a pressure drop, so
choosing the right one will improve safety and ergonomics as well as
significantly reduce this occurrence.
In addition, when choosing the right hose think about its diameter,
length and material. If you can, keep the hose diameter large. Choosing a
shorter length will increase both its mobility and flexibility. Choose a material
that is right for the work environment (e.g., exposure to heat, cold or
friction). At
IATIS,
we recommend the use of hose whips to reduce hose bending and to protect
against whiplash. The hose whip will also reduce the vibration transmission to
the operator.
There are three diagnostic steps you can take to make sure
that your air-compressor, accessories and tools are working as intended.
- 1)Read the FRL gauge regulator valve, measure
dynamic pressure at the tool inlet and calculate the accessory air pressure
drop. - 2)Check your tool manufacturers’ recommendations
for tool inlet dimension, hose minimum size and tool air consumption. - 3)Make final measurements and any adjustments so
the dynamic air pressure at the tool’s inlet reads 90/psi 6.3 bars. - Remember,
pressurized air can generate damages both material and physical. Make sure that
all pipes, hoses and fittings have a rating of the maximum pressure of your
compressor. Follow safety precautions and regularly inspect your airlines for
defects. Repair or replace any defective equipment immediately. If you have any
questions about your air tool network, get in touch with someone from the
IATIS
team and we’ll be happy to help you out. From air compressors to tools and accessories, we are your local pneumatic industry experts.