Types of Drain Valves Used for Compressed Air

For proper compressed air maintenance and longevity, it's critical to have reliable compressed air drain valves to release excess moisture and contaminants. Condensate can build up in compressed air dryers, air receiver tanks, filter housings and more. Removing the condensate in your compressed air can improve the longevity of your compressed air parts and equipment. Here are some of the different types of drain valves used for compressed air systems:

1. Automatic drain valves: These valves are designed to open and close automatically based on a preset schedule or pressure level. They are typically installed at the lowest point in the system, where condensate is likely to collect. Automatic drain valves can be controlled by a timer or a pressure switch, and they can be set to open and close at specific intervals to ensure the system is properly drained.
2. Manual drain valves: As the name suggests, these valves must be manually opened and closed by the operator. They are typically located at the lowest point in the system and are used to release excess moisture and contaminants on an as-needed basis. Manual drain valves are often used in systems that do not require frequent draining, or in cases where automatic draining is not practical.
3. Float-operated drain valves: These valves use a float mechanism to open and close the valve as the level of condensate in the system rises and falls. The float rises with the level of condensate and activates a switch that opens the valve when the condensate reaches a certain level. Float-operated drain valves are often used in systems with high moisture content or in areas where automatic draining is not practical.
4. Thermally-activated drain valves: These valves are designed to open and close based on the temperature of the system. They are typically installed at the lowest point in the system and are activated when the temperature reaches a certain level, indicating that condensate has formed. Thermally-activated drain valves are often used in systems with high moisture content or in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.

We offer many options of compressed air drain valves including Ball Valve Drains, Electric Drain Valves, Pneumatic Drain Valves, and more. The type of drain valve for your application will depend on flow in SCFM, maximum pressure in PSI, and the amount of moisture in your compressed air system. Save your system from rust and premature death, and improve compressed air quality with drain valves! Contact us for help with drain valves for your compressed air equipment.