| Correct dimensioning of the pipes in a system is of great importance for economical operation. Pipes with too small a diameter cause high losses of pressure. These losses must be compensated for by high compression in order to guarantee the performance of consumer devices.
The main factors influencing the ideal inside diameter d i of the pipe are:
- Volume flow
 .
The maximum throughput of air should be assumed when determining d i . Increased pressure loss has a greater impact when the requirement for compressed air is at a maximum.
- Effective flow length of pipeline.
The length of the pipeline should be determined as accurately as possible. Fittings and bends are unavoidable in pipeline systems. When determining the effective flow length of the pipeline these must be taken into account as an equivalent section of pipe.
- Operating pressure.
When determining d i the compressor cut-out pressure p max is to be assumed. At maximum pressure the pressure drop Dp is also highest.
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