Air compressor - solenoids and venturis

[antonylord]

I'm curious in two projects :

1) Locating my air compressor outside [weatherproof] on a timer. I'd like to retro fit the manual drain valve on the bottom with a solenoid valve so at the end of the day it powers down, discharges and drains.

2) Doing some vacuum work (odd laminating etc). I'm exploring using a venturi on the compressor versus buying a vacuum pump.

Anyone know where to source either here in Oz?

Cheers, Antony.

[Chris Parks]

Google is your friend

http://www.google.com.au/search?hl=en&q=automatic+compressor+drain&btnG=Google+Search&meta=cr%3DcountryAU

[walro]

Hi antonylord,
How big is your compressor? Single phase I presume. I wouldn't waste my money on a solenoid for the condensate drain.They work ok when the compressor is brand new and the tank is clean internally.Once the compressor is older you will get a lot of sh**t inside the tank. (Rust ect) and the automatic drain valves tend to clog up quickly.Once this happens your tank will slowly fill up with water.You wouldn't even know unless you check your auto drain and make sure it is actually working.
I would remove the original drain cock and fit a m/f elbow, then a hose nipple, one or two meters of air hose and a 1/4" lever type ball valve at the end of it. That way it is very easy to drain the condensate and foolproof also. And the best part is it costs next to nothing.
As far as the ventury...depends on the size of your compressor. they can use a lot of air.
Good luck.:)