In a compressed air, gas, or multi-fluid distribution system, the drop is where the rubber meets the road… or rather, where the air meets the application. Unipipe’s pre-assembled, easy-to-install drop-end assemblies make it fast and simple to add new drops or change your system configuration. With multiple end fitting styles to choose from, there is a drop-end assembly for every application.

What Is a Drop?

A “drop” in a compressed air distribution system (or other gas or fluid delivery system) refers to a connection point where compressed air is tapped from the main supply lines to deliver air to a specific tool, machine, or application. It typically consists of a vertical pipe extending from the main distribution loop to the point of use. Drops are designed to ensure easy access to compressed air while maintaining the system’s efficiency and safety.

Compressed Air Drop Types

There are three principal types of drops in a compressed air system:

Direct drops to equipment: These drops connect directly to fixed machinery, such as CNC machines or other stationary equipment, providing a dedicated air supply.
Drops to hose reels: These can be positioned at working height for easy access or mounted at higher levels (e.g., on ceilings) for overhead applications. Hose reels offer flexibility and keep workspaces organized.
Drops with ball valves and quick-disconnect fittings: Designed for mobile tooling, these drops terminate in a ball valve with quick-disconnect fittings, allowing for fast and convenient connection of portable tools.

Parts of a Drop

A typical compressed air drop consists of the following parts:

Branch connection: Connects the drop line to the main air supply.
Drop line: A vertical pipe or hose that delivers air to the point of use.
Shut-off valve: Allows the drop to be isolated for maintenance or when not in use.
Drip leg: Captures moisture or condensate to prevent it from reaching tools.
Support and mounting hardware: Secures the drop line to walls or Unistrut.
Manifold: A component that allows multiple connections or outlets to be served from a single drop line.
End-use ports/connectors: Provide the interface for attaching tools, hoses or accessories, such as quick-connect couplers.

Drop Installation Made Easy

Traditionally, assembling and installing drops has been a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Unipipe’s pre-assembled, easy-to-install drop-end assemblies change the game, making drop installation fast and hassle-free. Here’s how we’re different.

In a traditional drop system, all of the components — such as branch connections, drop lines, valves, drip legs, ports, and mounting kits — must be sourced, assembled, and installed on-site. This process requires precise measurements, careful alignment, and skilled labor to ensure the system is leak-free and properly configured. Even small errors in assembly can lead to costly rework, air leaks, or system inefficiencies.

With Unipipe’s pre-assembled wall-mounted drop-end assemblies, everything you need comes in a single, ready-to-install package. Each unit is professionally assembled with airtight connections, reducing the risk of leaks and eliminating the need for on-site assembly. Simply connect the drop to the header (using our fast and easy saddle branch connectors!), run the pipe, connect the drop end, and you’re ready to go — no fuss, no delays, and no extra labor.

What’s Included

The Unipipe wall-mounted drop-end assembly comes with:

Ball valve for point of use
Drip leg
Optional backplate for mounting to Unistrut
One or two NPT ports (can be pre-assembled with quick-disconnect fittings in various sizes)

Fitting Options for Drops

Unipipe drop ends are designed for versatility, offering different styles to accommodate direct drops, hose reels, quick connectors, or traditional manifolds. Drop end fitting options include:

Threaded ball valve: Ideal for direct connection to equipment, providing a secure and easily controlled air supply.

NPT adapter to hose fitting: A versatile option for attaching hoses, ensuring compatibility with standard air systems.

Traditional manifold: Allows for multiple outlets, which can be fitted with any combination of hose connections, quick-disconnect fittings, or other accessories.

Wall-mounted drop end: A complete assembly that includes a ball valve, drip leg, and quick-disconnect fittings, offering a plug-and-play solution for easy installation and efficient operation. Available in single or double port options.

Benefits of the Unipipe Pre-Assembled Drop End Assembly

By streamlining the installation process, Unipipe saves you time, reduces costs, and ensures a high-performing system every time.

Time-saving installation: Pre-assembled units eliminate the need for complex on-site assembly, significantly reducing labor time and installation costs. Significantly faster than mounting a manifold with a separate ball valve and connecting hardware!
Consistent quality: Every drop is professionally assembled to ensure airtight connections, minimizing the risk of leaks or performance issues.
No special tools: Designed for easy integration, these assemblies allow you to quickly add or reconfigure drops without specialized tools or skilled labor. Connection to the main piping loop is fast and simple with our innovative saddle branch connectors.
Versatility: Available in multiple styles to suit different applications, from fixed machinery connections to mobile tooling or overhead hose reels.
Clean, professional appearance: Pre-assembled drop-ends are neatly constructed, giving your system a polished, professional look that also supports easier maintenance.

Ready to Learn More?

Unipipe’s drop-end assemblies are part of our state-of-the-art, modern aluminum piping system. Unipipe systems are lightweight, fast, and easy to install, and available in multiple sizes with pressure ratings up to 1015 PSI. Our unique fittings guarantee a leak-free connection and are installed with no threading, grooving, or crimping.