We were recently asked by a fire protection contractor in California the following question:

“How do I remove condensate water from the piping between the compressor and the DPV (Dry Pipe Valve) when I am using an OL Series riser mounted unit (no tank)?”

As you know, when air is compressed condensate is created and accumulates in the system piping. If the condensate is not addressed it can eventually fill the piping all the way back to the compressor and then, eventually into the air compressor itself. At this point the compressor will fail. While this is extreme is it not entirely uncommon.

On our tank mounted units (LT Series and OLT Series) we include a manual tank drain with every unit. This requires that the condensate that collects in the tank be emptied manually on a regular basis (how regular depends on the local environment). If this manual draining of the tank proves to be too much for your customer to keep up with you can recommend the installation of our automatic tank drain (APCX51).

Now if you are dealing with this issue while using a riser mounted air compressor we recommend installing a drip-leg drain downstream. The drain should be installed at the lowest point in the piping between the air compressor and the dry pipe valve. Our drip leg drains are automatic drains of either the float or electric variety.

Also, if moisture downstream is a problem just by its presence, as opposed to it’s accumulation, we recommend the AD3400 manual desiccant dryer to remove the condensate from the air leaving the compressor.

We hope this information helps you address your condensate related problems when it comes to air compressors for dry pipe sprinkler systems. If you have any questions or comments please contact us or leave your comments below!