If your tools are spitting water, losing pressure, or struggling when multiple people are working at once, the issue isn’t always your compressor—it’s often the piping system. A smart piping layout keeps pressure steady, reduces moisture, and makes your whole air system more efficient. In this guide, we’ll walk through the basics of air compressor piping diagrams, the rules to follow, and the best kits you can buy to set up a reliable system in your shop.
Quick Picks: Best Air Compressor Piping Kits
- Best Overall: RapidAir MaxLine 3/4″ Master Kit (300 ft) – Flexible semi-rigid tubing, DIY-friendly, expandable system.
- Best Budget: RapidAir FastPipe 3/4″ Aluminum Piping Starter Kit – Affordable rigid aluminum setup for clean straight runs.
- Best Premium: Prevost PPS 3/4″ Aluminum Piping Kit – Professional-grade aluminum piping system for multi-bay shops.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Plan Your Air Compressor Piping
Before you start cutting pipe, here are the key rules and factors to consider:
- Main Line Size: For 60–80 gallon compressors, 3/4″ main lines are standard. Use 1″ for long runs or heavy air demand.
- Layout: A closed loop system keeps pressure stable across multiple drops. A straight trunk line works for small garages.
- Slope: Always slope mains slightly away from the compressor to encourage water drainage.
- Drop Lines: Take air from the top of the main line, go upward first, then down to a drip leg with a ball valve at the bottom.
- Materials: Use aluminum, copper, or black steel. Never use PVC—it can shatter under pressure.
- Moisture Control: Plan for filters, regulators, and a refrigerated dryer if you use air for painting or precision tools.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. RapidAir MaxLine 3/4″ Master Piping Kit (300 ft)
Who it’s for: DIYers and small shops who want an easy-to-install, flexible system with strong airflow.
- Key Benefits: 300 ft of semi-rigid tubing, push-to-connect fittings, corrosion-resistant aluminum core.
- Pros: Very DIY-friendly, expandable, handles high CFM easily.
- Cons: Requires clean cuts and full seating of fittings to avoid leaks.
Final Verdict: The best overall choice for most garages and small shops. Check Price
2. RapidAir FastPipe 3/4″ Aluminum Starter Kit
Who it’s for: Shops that want rigid, straight pipe runs with a clean, professional look.
- Key Benefits: Durable aluminum pipe, compression fittings, easy to expand with additional drops.
- Pros: Clean installs, rigid structure, long-lasting.
- Cons: Requires precise cutting and measuring.
Final Verdict: The most affordable way to build a rigid shop system. See Price
3. Prevost PPS 3/4″ Aluminum Air Piping Kit
Who it’s for: Multi-bay garages, auto shops, and serious hobbyists who need maximum reliability.
- Key Benefits: High-flow aluminum system with premium fittings, excellent for loop systems.
- Pros: Very high-quality fittings, durable, professional finish.
- Cons: More expensive than DIY kits.
Final Verdict: The premium choice when uptime and airflow matter most. Check Price
4. Ingersoll Rand Refrigerated Air Dryer
Who it’s for: Shops and painters needing dry, clean air with no water issues.
- Key Benefits: Removes moisture before it reaches your tools or lines.
- Pros: Prevents water damage, improves finish on paint jobs, extends tool life.
- Cons: Requires electricity and floor space.
Final Verdict: Essential for any shop doing painting or precision work. See Price
5. Milton 3/4″ High-Flow FRL System
Who it’s for: Anyone running a shop who needs reliable filtration and regulation at the main supply line.
- Key Benefits: Filter, regulator, and lubricator in one heavy-duty system.
- Pros: High CFM rating, precise pressure control, durable construction.
- Cons: Larger size requires wall space.
Final Verdict: A great heart for your main distribution manifold. Check Price
6. Schulz ADS Refrigerated Dryer (30–60 CFM Models)
Who it’s for: Professional shops that want top-tier moisture control.
- Key Benefits: Consistent dew point control, auto drain, digital interface.
- Pros: Keeps air perfectly dry, reduces tool wear, reliable.
- Cons: More expensive than smaller dryers.
Final Verdict: A premium dryer that ensures your piping system delivers only clean, dry air. View Price
Comparison Table
| Product | Type | Size / Flow | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RapidAir MaxLine Kit | Semi-rigid Piping | 3/4″ main | DIY shops | Check Price |
| RapidAir FastPipe Kit | Rigid Aluminum | 3/4″ main | Clean straight runs | See Price |
| Prevost PPS Kit | Premium Aluminum | 3/4″ main | Professional shops | Check Price |
| Ingersoll Rand Dryer | Refrigerated Dryer | 15–30 CFM | Painting & dry air | See Price |
| Milton 3/4″ FRL | Filter/Reg/Lube | High CFM | Main manifold | Check Price |
| Schulz ADS Dryer | Refrigerated Dryer | 30–60 CFM | Pro shops | View Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I build a loop or a straight line?
A loop system holds pressure more evenly across multiple drops, while a straight trunk line works fine for small garages.
What pipe material should I use?
Aluminum kits like RapidAir or Prevost are best. Type L copper or black steel also works. Never use PVC—it can shatter under pressure.
How do I stop water in my tools?
Use a refrigerated dryer, slope your piping correctly, and add drip legs at each drop point.
What size piping do I need?
3/4″ mains are standard for most shops. Use 1″ if you have long runs or multiple heavy-duty tools.
Conclusion
Building an efficient air compressor piping system is one of the best upgrades you can make to your shop. With the right design—proper slope, drip legs, and the correct materials—you’ll enjoy steady pressure, clean air, and longer tool life.
The RapidAir MaxLine Kit is the best overall choice for most shops, the RapidAir FastPipe offers a budget-friendly rigid system, and the Prevost PPS Kit delivers professional-grade performance for serious shops. Pair your system with a refrigerated dryer and a quality FRL to keep air clean and dry.
Check today’s best air compressor piping kits and accessories here