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Air Blow Guns
Air blowguns are essential tools in any compressed air system, providing a safe, efficient, and controlled way to clean, dry, and remove dust or debris from work areas, machinery, and components. Compact yet powerful, they direct compressed air exactly where it’s needed, making them a staple in workshops, garages, and industrial environments.
At Pipestock, we supply a wide range of air blowguns from leading brands such as PCL and Prevost, trusted worldwide for their durability, ergonomic design, and compliance with strict safety standards. From lightweight blowguns for everyday cleaning to heavy-duty options for more demanding applications, our range ensures you’ll find the right tool for your compressed air system.
Key features across our blowgun selection include:
- Ergonomic designs: For comfortable handling during extended use.
- Precision nozzles: For accurate airflow control.
- Safety mechanisms: Such as automatic pressure reduction to meet workplace standards.
- Durable construction: Made from materials like nylon or composite for long service life.
What is an Air Blowgun?
A compressed air blowgun is a handheld tool used to direct a stream of compressed air for cleaning, drying, or clearing dust, swarf, and debris from surfaces, machinery, or workspaces. It works by connecting to a compressed air supply, usually via a hose fitted with a coupling, and releasing air through a trigger-controlled nozzle.
Some key points are:
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Function: Primarily used for cleaning work areas, tools, filters, engines, and components where dust or particles need to be removed quickly and efficiently.
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Operation: The user presses the trigger to release compressed air, which exits through a nozzle in a controlled, high-velocity jet. Some blowguns allow adjustment of the airflow.
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Nozzle types: Can be fitted with standard conical nozzles, safety nozzles (to reduce noise and pressure for compliance), or extended nozzles for reaching into tight or awkward spaces.
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Materials: Typically made from durable plastics (like nylon) or metals (such as aluminium), often with ergonomic grips for comfort.
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Safety: Many industrial blowguns are fitted with safety features, such as automatic pressure reduction or OSHA-compliant nozzles, to prevent excessive pressure that could pose risks to users.
How to connect an Air Blowgun
Attaching a blowgun to a compressed air system is a straightforward process; however, it’s essential to use the correct fittings and adhere to safe working practices. By ensuring your couplings, adaptors, and threads are compatible, you’ll achieve a secure, leak-free connection that’s ready for reliable use in your workshop or industrial setup.
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Check Compatibility:
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Most blowguns come with a threaded inlet, typically 1/4" BSP; however, some blowguns come with a built-in adaptor.
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Ensure you have the right coupling for the adaptor that is fitted or built into your blowgun.
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Fit the Adaptor to the Blowgun:
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If your blowgun doesn't have a built-in adaptor, then you'll need to thread one in.
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Start by wrapping the male thread of the adaptor with several layers of PTFE tape to create a secure, airtight seal.
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Screw the male thread into the female thread on the blowgun, tightening with a spanner, but don't overtighten as this can damage the threads.
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Connect the Airline:
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Depending on the type of coupling you have, they will connect in different ways.
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If you have a collar-style coupling, simply pull back the collar, insert the adaptor attached to the blowgun and release the collar. You should hear a click as it locks securely into place.
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If you have a push-button coupling, also known as quick safety couplings, then simply push the adaptor into the coupling until you hear a click; this is then locked securely in place.
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Test the Connection:
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Switch on the compressor and allow it to pressurise.
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Gently squeeze the blowgun’s trigger to check for airflow.
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Inspect for any air leaks around the fitting – if present, release pressure and re-tighten.
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Use Safely:
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Always wear appropriate PPE when using a blowgun.
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Do not exceed the recommended pressure set by the manufacturer.
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Consider using a safety blowgun with built-in pressure reduction if working to OSHA or HSE standards.
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How to use an Air Blowgun
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Prepare the Air Supply:
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Ensure you have a compressed air source (such as a workshop compressor) set to the correct pressure for the blowgun and task. Most blowguns operate at around 6–10 bar (90–145 psi), but always check the manufacturer’s specifications.
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Attach the Blowgun:
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Follow the steps above in the "How to connect an Air Blowgun" section.
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Check the Nozzle:
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Select the appropriate blowgun nozzle for your job. Standard Nozzles for general purpose work, Safety Nozzles which limit pressure and reduce noise and Extended Nozzles to reach into confined or awkward spaces.
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Inspect the nozzle for damage or blockages before use.
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Put on Safety Equipment:
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Always wear appropriate PPE when using a blowgun, specifically;
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Safety glasses or goggles - compressed air can blow dust, chips, or swarf back towards your face.
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Hearing protection may be advisable in noisy environments.
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Gloves can protect your hands when working with sharp or hot debris.
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Operation of the Blowgun:
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Hold the blowgun firmly by the handle.
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Point the nozzle away from yourself and others.
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Gently squeeze the trigger to release compressed air – most blowguns allow you to feather the trigger for controlled airflow.
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Direct the air stream onto the area you want to clean or dry.
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Safe Use Practices:
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Never use the blowgun directly on skin or clothing – compressed air can penetrate the skin and cause serious injury.
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Avoid blowing air into confined containers or sealed cavities – pressure can build up dangerously.
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Keep a safe distance from delicate components that could be damaged by high-pressure air.
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After Use:
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Release the trigger and disconnect the blowgun if you’re finished.
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Store the tool safely, ideally hung up or placed where the nozzle won’t be damaged.
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A blowgun is a very effective cleaning tool when used properly, but safety is key – the jet of compressed air is powerful enough to cause harm if misused.
Whether you need a simple standard nozzle blowgun, a high-flow model for maximum performance, or a specialist safety blowgun that prevents accidental injury, we’ve got you covered. Pairing with compatible air compressors, hose reels, and couplings, these tools integrate seamlessly into your existing setup.
Explore our full selection of PCL and Prevost blowguns today and equip your workshop with tools designed to improve efficiency, precision, and safety.
If you require any further information, our excellent customer service team is here to help so please call us on 01794 835835.
