Shipbuilding is a compressed-air-intensive industry. Blasting, painting, pneumatic tools, caulking, pressure testing and crane systems all run on air across a large yard, often with long pipe runs to the dockside.
Key applications
- Abrasive blasting and surface preparation
- Spray painting and coating
- Pneumatic grinders, drills and caulking tools
- Pressure testing of tanks and piping
- Dock and crane actuation
Air quality and pressure
Blasting and tools need high volume at 7–10 bar, while painting requires oil-free, dry air to prevent finish defects. Pressure testing may need higher-pressure boosters. Keeping these supplies separate avoids over-treating the whole yard.
System design
Use multiple compressors with sequencing across the yard, generous receiver capacity at dockside, and corrosion-resistant pipework for the marine environment. Long runs need correct sizing to limit pressure drop, and leak management matters in a yard that is constantly reconfigured.