Blowguns & Nozzles

Air blow guns and nozzles

An air blow gun is the most-used tool on most compressed air systems and the one given the least thought. We supply blowguns, air duster guns, nozzles and extensions from Parker Legris, PCL and others — in polymer and metal bodies, with a range of nozzle types to suit the job.

Choosing a blow gun

Three things matter more than the rest:

• Nozzle type. A standard open nozzle gives maximum flow. A safety nozzle limits outlet pressure if the tip is blocked. A rubber-tipped nozzle protects finished surfaces. Star or venturi nozzles entrain surrounding air, giving more force for less consumption.
• Body material. Polymer bodies are lighter and cheaper, and suit general workshop use. Aluminium and metal bodies last longer in heavy or abrasive environments.
• Air consumption. Blowguns are often the largest single source of wasted air in a workshop. A venturi nozzle can deliver comparable blowing force on noticeably less air than an open nozzle, which shows up directly on your electricity bill if guns are in constant use.

Safety and the 2 bar rule

Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, compressed air used for cleaning should not exceed 2 bar (30 psi) at the nozzle outlet when dead-ended. This is the pressure that matters if a nozzle is pressed against skin — compressed air forced under the skin can cause an air embolism, which is a serious and occasionally fatal injury.

Safety nozzles are designed to relieve pressure through side vents when the tip is blocked, so outlet pressure stays within limits even on a system running at 7 bar. If your guns are used for cleaning down parts, benches or clothing, safety nozzles are the sensible specification and are frequently required by insurers and safety auditors.

Compressed air should never be used to clean down clothing or skin, whatever nozzle is fitted.

Typical applications

• Clearing swarf and dust from machined parts and work areas
• Drying components after washing or before paint
• Blowing out blind holes, tubes and assemblies
• Cleaning down machinery and air treatment filters
• Extended lances for reaching into enclosures and deep sections

Fittings and connection

Most blowguns are supplied with a 1/4″ BSP inlet and connect to a standard quick-release coupling. We stock the full Parker Legris and PCL airline coupling ranges, so if you are standardising a workshop on one profile we can supply guns, couplings, hose and tube and reels to match. Mixed coupling profiles are a common cause of leaks and lost air.

Browse the wider pneumatics range for valves, fittings and ancillaries.

Advice and supply

We supply blowguns individually or in bulk for workshop fit-outs. If you are specifying for a site and need to meet a safety standard, or want to reduce air consumption across a lot of outlets, call 0800 0278 442 or email [email protected]. Collection is available from our High Wycombe trade counter, 8.00am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.