Water accumulation can dry onto the metal and rust it up. So, the brake will overheat and fail eventually. Cold weather can freeze the accumulated water and result in brake failure.
As an industrialist, you already know that compressed air is the fundamental automation source. But how will you prevent water build-up in the air compressor? Check our content and get to know now!
Drain Water From Compressor Air Tank: What Does It Mean?
As you already know – moisture has damaging effects on your brakes. Obviously, you can’t let it accumulate inside the tank. So, draining it up is mandatory.
But what do we mean by draining water from the air compressor tank?
Every air compressor features a drain valve at the tank’s bottom. Whenever it is open, it facilitates the outflow of water from the tank.
By draining, we mean manually propelling the water through the valve. If you are not up for manual draining, you can go for an automatic drainer. Just an air burst will be enough to trigger the drainage system.
Thus, there’ll be a low risk of water build-up, damage, or brake failure.
How To Keep Water Out Of An Air Compressor Tank?
Do you want to drain the water out from the air compressor manually? It’s pretty quick & convenient. Just try it out!
- Step 1: Turn Off The Compressor: Unplug the compressor to switch it off.
- Step 2: Pressure Reduction: Minimize the air pressure to 10 psi. Otherwise, air might burst out through the drain due to high pressure.
- Step 3: Turn On The Valve: Determine the position of the valve. You will probably find it at the tank’s bottom.
- Turn on the valve slowly.
- Place a container below the valve for convenience.
- Tip the air compressor tank at multiple angles to drain out every drop of water.
- Step 4: Close The Valve: Don’t ever forget to close the valve. Otherwise, pressure won’t build up within the compressor. Even if the compressor is not in use, it’s best to turn off the valve. Or else the compressor will become the warehouse of dust & insects.
How To Prevent Water In An Air Compressor Tank?
Even if you drain the air compressor daily, there is still a chance of damage. So, installing water traps/air dryers and preventing moisture build-up beforehand is best.
- Water Trap And Air Filters
Water Trap is specifically suitable to dry out tons of water.
When ambient air enters the compressor, a water trap automatically draws out the water into the drain. Now you can let it pass through the air filter for further cleansing.
As air filtration offers less efficiency, it’s best to invest in a water trap before filtration. We recommend it for extra dry pneumatic procedures, which involve sanding tools and airbrushes.
- Refrigerated Air Dryer
Refrigerated air dryers are air conditioners that condition compressed air. Set the temperature around 35˚F to 50˚F, and the PDP will eventually drop to 33˚F to 39˚F.
If you go through the market, you will come across cycling and non-cycling refrigerated air dryers. Non-cycling dryers generally rush through as long as the compressor is active. In contrast, non-cycling dryers conserve energy and activate only when the temperature is too high.
Refrigerated air dryers are more expensive and efficient than regular air filters.
- Desiccant Air Dryer
Do you want to take the dew point to an exceptionally low level? Install a desiccant air dryer into your air compressor system.
The desiccant dryer is equipped with tiny beads and pressure tanks for the drying and regeneration cycle.
In the drying cycle, desiccant beads suck water from the pressurized air. At the low dew point, depressurization and heating coincide. This heat will cleanse the depressurized air in the regeneration cycle.
- Lubricate The Compressor
Water drops and dirt can quickly enter your air compressor through the inlet valve. So, we will recommend oiling the valve from time to time. Regular lubrication can prevent moisture/dirt from entering the compressor itself.
- Piping Air Dryer
Piping air dryers are pretty affordable yet efficient in preventing moisture build-up.
FAQs – Most Asking questions
How often should you drain water from the air storage tanks?
If you use it regularly, you should drain the tank at least once a month. If you don’t use it as often, you can do it every few months.
Why is it important to drain water from compressed air tanks?
Water can rust the tank, so it is important to get it out regularly.
How long can I leave air in my compressor?
Generally, you can leave air in your air compressor for several hours to 24 hours. This time limit might vary as per the compressor’s type and size.
Is it OK to leave the compressor tank pressurized?
It’s totally safe, and in fact, recommended, to keep your compressor tank pressurized. This ensures that the air inside is always at a consistent temperature and pressure, which prolongs the lifespan of your compressor and prevents corrosion.
Conclusion
At first, Every new industrialist wonders – Why drain water from compressed air tanks? You are already aware that moisture build-up can literally damage the brakes.
So, it’s mandatory to dry up the compressor tanks after every use. In fact, if you don’t invest in an air filter/water trap, you will eventually regret it. In contrast, a highly maintained air compressor with proper air dryers can serve for a prolonged period.