Electronic Drains for Condensate Removal

Condensate is a given in compressed air systems. It cannot be avoided; instead, proper equipment can be used to prepare for it. Drain valves can and should be found on an intercooler, aftercooler, filter, dryer, receiver, drip leg, or at point of use.

Using an air compressor auto drain system has several benefits, including:

• Prevents Damage to Equipment
  • Accumulated condensate can cause corrosion, rust, and other damage to the equipment, reducing its lifespan. The auto drain system ensures that the condensate is removed from the system, preventing damage to the equipment.
• Improves Air Quality 
  • Condensate in the compressed air system can cause contamination and affect the quality of the air. The auto drain system removes the condensation, improving the air quality.
• Reduces Maintenance Costs
  • Regular maintenance of the compressed air system can be costly. The auto drain system reduces the need for frequent maintenance by removing the condensate regularly.

Types of Electronic Drains

When it comes to selecting an electronic drain for your compressed air system, there are a few options you need to consider. Electronic drains all have one thing in common: They are electrically controlled when they open and close. The rest comes down to how the intervals are determined.

Material

Your electronic drain valve’s material is one of two options: brass or stainless steel. Brass drain valves will cost less than stainless steel valves as they are easier and cheaper to make. However, cost savings come at the expense of durability. 

Brass drain valves come in even more economical variations. This tier is the cheapest and most straightforward, using a routine timer to set condensate discharge intervals.

Intervals

The discharge intervals can change depending on the model of electronic drain you choose. Economy-timed solenoid drains are the cheapest option with the simplest intervals. At the same time, Zero-Loss Drains will be your most expensive with the most advanced intervals.

Timer Drains are consistent in their timing on condensate discharge. They open at a predetermined interval to release air on a set schedule. Consistency greatly benefits your peace of mind; unfortunately, these drains are ill-prepared for condensation variation.

Your higher-end timed and zero-loss drains will have more variation in their intervals. Zero-loss drains have additional sensors that discharge the air when it reaches a specific volume. During peak demand, more condensation is collected than downtime. Rather than waiting until it is time, they discharge the condensation. 

Investing in a higher-quality condensate drain is an investment in your system’s health. The less you worry about your drain functioning, the easier it is to focus on other tasks.

Learn more about the details of Condensate Drain Valves here.