Condensate drains are often the most overlooked component of a compressed air system but are a critical part of maintaining the air compressor’s efficiency.

Air compressors are used in many industrial applications, and their reliability and long-term performance are dependent on a number of factors. One of the most overlooked factors is the efficient removal of the condensate which is formed when atmospheric air is compressed.

The atmospheric air contains moisture, particle contaminants, microorganisms, and gases. When this air gets compressed, these contaminants along with oil and metal traces form a sludge that needs to be drained. Compressed air condensate drains achieve this by routinely removing liquid that collects over time, increasing the air compressor’s lifespan and reducing energy costs.

To optimise savings, it is critical first to understand all kinds of compressed air condensate drains, how they work, and what to look for when selecting one for your system.

What is a condensate drain valve, and how does it work?

Condensation is a significant issue in compressed air systems and is one of the primary reasons for equipment failures and breakdowns.

A condensate drain valve drains condensate from process lines or storage tanks. They are one of a compressed air system's most overlooked yet vital components. These valves help remove the condensate and impurities and ensure that the compressed air in the system is clean and dry. They can carry out the function without losing excess compressed air or shutting down the system. They are also critical in extending the life of the compressor unit and the complete compressed air system, including the sub-components, driven equipment, and instruments.

There are two primary types of condensate drain valves: manual condensate drain valves and automatic condensate drain valves.

Manual drain valve or Automatic drain valve - Why does it matter?

Most air compressors come with a manual compressor tank drain. It is found at the bottom of your air tank. Manual drain valves, as the name implies, must be manually operated to release accumulated condensate at least once each day. Manual drain valves can be challenging as operators often need to remember to drain, causing excess condensate to accumulate in the system. There is also the risk of leaving them partially open which can lead to a waste of compressed air.

This is why automatic drain valves are more efficient than manual ones. Automatic condensate drains function without manual intervention. They automatically drain the accumulated condensate from compressed air systems at regular intervals, keeping the tank water- and contaminant-free and thus preventing corrosion.

Factors to consider when purchasing an Auto Drain Valve?

When purchasing an air compressor automatic drain valve, there are several factors that could influence your decision-making:

Firstly, you must select the proper thread so that your drain valve may readily connect to your air compressor. A ½” male NPT intake will work with most air compressors. If necessary, a reducer can be used to ensure proper operation.
Subsequently, consider the auto drain valve's discharge and internal times.Where the discharge time specifies the duration the drain valve will remain open, whereas the internal timer determines how frequently the drain valve will open. Look for a discharge duration of 0.5 to 10 seconds and an internal timer of 30 to 45 seconds.
Another thing to check is that the auto drain valve runs at the same pressure as the maximum pressure of your air compressor. Make sure to select the proper body for the auto drain valve. We suggest opting for brass as the body material because it is known to be sturdy, corrosion-resistant, and can handle high pressures and temperatures.

EZL Drain Valve- Zero Loss Advantage

ELGi's EZL Drain Valve is a condensate-sensing automatic drain valveand represents an advancement in drain valve technology. Instead of operating through a cycle timer, these valves sense the condensate level for activation, ensuring no loss of compressed air and best-in-class energy saving. The EZL drain valves are highly efficient and reliable. ELGi'sEZL drains work on the principle of zero air loss and, consequently saving energy. They can be retrofitted directly on the equipment by replacing the manual drains.

Zero loss advantage - During the air compression process, moisture condenses in dryers, after-coolers, and air receivers. This condensate needs to be removed frequently. The EZL drain valves help with this process. In ordinary drains, there is always some amount of loss of compressed air during the expulsion of the condensate. The EZL zero loss drain valves work on the principle of zero air loss, causing no loss to your compressed air, and thus saving energy.

Automatic Drain Valve - The EZL condensate-sensing type automatic drain valve is the latest advancement in drain valve technology. Instead of operating through a cycle timer, these valves sense the condensate level for activation, ensuring absolutely no loss of compressed air and hence enormous energy savings and efficiency.

LED indicator - The LED display accurately indicates all the functions of the valve. For added safety and convenience, the LED indicator lights up when the valve is open.

A test switchThe EZL Drain Valve has a test switch(or) manual drain that allows an easy test of function at any time.

Noise Free OperationThe EZL Drain Valve also provides noise-freeoperation as no air is discharged.

Can be used in any compressed airsystemThe EZL drain valves are highly efficient and reliable. The drain valve can be used in any compressed air system, and it is designed to fit directly on the equipment simply by replacing the manual drains.

Contact our expert team for a more in-depth discussion and understanding of the EZL Drain Valve and how it provides better Air Quality and Energy Saving.