Even the smallest air leaks can lead to wasted products and energy and loss of production time, especially in a production line that can only function with compressed air to drive tools and processes.
If there is not enough compressed air pressure to keep the equipment functioning optimally, there can be serious financial consequences. The more leaks there are in the system, the harder the compressor has to work to supply the required air to the equipment, which is not optimal for the compressor. This increase in demand increases the risk of insufficient compressed air being supplied to tools and process equipment.
Compressed air leaks also increase energy costs. According to the US Department of Energy, a 1/8″ (3 mm) leak in a compressed air line can cost more than $2,500 a year.