Tech Tip: Four key factors to ensure optimal performance of your pneumatic tool

Sept. 12, 2019
If you find your pneumatic tool is under-powered or not running as expected, it could be caused by air line accessories and/or connections, rather than the tool itself.

Have you found that your pneumatic tool is underpowered or not running as expected? Well, it could all come down to your airline accessories and/or connection, rather than the tool itself. It’s worth quickly checking your airline installation – a simple job that only takes a couple of minutes.

It’s easy: each accessory from the filter, regulator, and lubricator (FRL) to the tool’s inlet should be selected considering the following four key tool values: 

1. Inlet size 

= size of the tool’s air inlet. This value will help you select the correct size of connector. 

2. Inlet type 

= type of thread on the tool air inlet. The three main types of pneumatic tool inlet threads are: 

  • NPT (National Pipe Thread), mostly used in America, 
  • PT (Pipe Thread), mostly used in Asia,
  • BSP (British Standard Pipe), mostly used in Europe.

Safety tip: To avoid any wrong connections or air leakage, never mix thread types. 

3. Air compression as dynamic pressure 

= the volume of compressed air required by the tool to work properly and efficiently. This value is given in cubic feet per meter (cfm) or in liters per second/minute (l/s or l/m). 

4. Recommended hose diameter 

= while this isn’t typically classified as a tool value, tool manufacturers usually recommend the correct hose diameter to help ensure your tools perform at their best. The value is specified in millimeters (mm) and/or in inch (“). 

Where to find the information? 

Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations online, to the tool print catalog, or the operating manual.

By double-checking these four values, you will not only increase your tool’s efficiency but also reduce safety hazards in the workplace linked to airline installation failure.

Information provided by Chicago Pneumatic

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