What are air blow guns

Air blow guns attach to air lines for the manualoutside diameter (OD). 1/8” NPT
actuation and/or control of air discharge. They areconnectors have 27 TPI and an OD of
used primarily for debris removal and purging,0.405”. 1/4” NPT connectors
non-contact part cleaning and drying, and generalhave 18 TPI and an OD of 0.540”. 3
laboratory or industrial applications. Most air blow guns8” NPT connectors also have 18 TPI, but
are made of plastic or metal and include anan OD of 0.675”. 1/2” connectors
ergonomic grip or handle. A steady stream ofhave 14 TPI and an OD of 0.840”. #10-32
compressed air is delivered through a sturdy metallicNPT threads are also available. Air line connections
nozzle. Air blow guns that are equipped with anthat can swivel or pivot are suitable for applications
internal fail-safe pressure mechanism shut offthat require versatile positioning.
automatically if the gun is dropped or the lip isAir blow guns vary in terms of nozzle type and
blocked. Integral pressure relief valves are used toactuation style. Standard safety nozzles are suitable
blow off excess pressure before discharge. In thefor general-purpose applications. Small-diameter
United States, products that meet or exceednozzles can be inserted into tight openings. Nozzles
standards from the Occupational Safety and Healthwith rubber tips prevent the marring of surfaces
Administration (OSHA) are commonly available.while nozzles with flexible tips can be guided directly
Typically, manufacturers indicate whether productsto the application point. Air blow guns with extended,
are suitable for high volume applications, or include astraight nozzles provide longer reach. Devices with
threaded discharge port or vacuum attachment.extended, angled nozzles are designed for use in
Specifications for air blow guns include pressuredifficult-to-reach locations. Venturi nozzles contain
capacity and air line connection type. Pressuresmall holes that allow the discharge to draw ambient
capacity or maximum rated pressure is rated at theair to increase the airflow. Air screens are often used
air inlet and measured in pounds per square inch (psi).to minimize particle blowback. In terms of actuation,
Many types of air line connectors are available.most air blow guns include a discharge lever that is
Quick-release connectors contain fittings that arein-line with the air hose and actuated by thumb. Pistol
attached internally. By contrast, push-on connectorsor trigger-style devices are also available. With these
include barbed ferrules. Air blow guns use severaldevices, the actuator is located at a right-angle to
types of national pipe thread (NPT) connectors, mostthe air supply hose and incorporates an ergonomic
of which are inch-based and female. Important NPThandle. Button-actuated air blow guns are also
measurements include threads per inch (TPI) andavailable.