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1. Differential pressure drain (semi-automatic drain): Closes when there is air pressure and drains automatically when there is no air pressure. Manual operation is also possible. (When the differential pressure drain outlet is open, the air pressure does not need to exceed 2 kg. It will automatically drain when the air pressure drops to 0. A low-pressure filter can close the drain outlet to prevent air leakage.)
2. Automatic drain: The pressure generally needs to be higher than 2 bar. Too low a pressure can easily lead to air leakage.
3. Manual drain: Always closed and requires manual operation.
This is the most crucial distinguishing factor when choosing a drain device, as it primarily determines the degree of automation in maintenance. | ||||
Drainage Methods: | Working Principle | Advantages: | Disadvantages: | Applicable Scenarios: |
Manual Drainage | Drainage requires manual periodic unscrewing of the drain screw or lever at the bottom. | Simplest structure and lowest cost. | Relies on manual operation; if forgotten, accumulated water can re-contaminate the compressed air. | For situations where air quality requirements are not high and regular manual inspections are convenient. |
Differential Pressure (Semi-Automatic) Drainage | An internal float mechanism is included. When the water level rises, the float moves the lever to open the valve for drainage; the valve automatically closes after the water has drained. | Automated drainage, requiring no manual operation and offering high reliability. | Requires a certain system pressure (e.g., above 0.15 MPa) to function properly. | The most commonly used industrial standard selection, suitable for most conventional pneumatic systems. |
Fully Automatic Drainage | A solenoid valve or a separate automatic drainer (such as the AD series) is typically used, with drainage controlled by a timer or level sensor. | Most thorough and reliable drainage, unaffected by system pressure fluctuations. | Complex structure, highest cost, and may require an external power supply. | For situations where air quality requirements are extremely high, unattended operation is required, or manual operation is inconvenient. |
When selecting an Airtac oil-water separator, consider the following aspects:
Automation Level: Choose from manual, differential pressure, or fully automatic drainage modes based on budget, labor costs, and importance.
Connection and Flow Rate: Select the appropriate connection size based on system piping dimensions, such as G1/8, G1/4, G3/8, G1/2, etc. Numbers in the model number, such as "2000," "3000," and "4000," typically represent different flow rates and connection specifications.
Filtration Accuracy: Select based on the equipment's air quality requirements. Standard filtration accuracies are 5μm or 40μm; for applications requiring high oil mist filtration, the AFFR series with accuracies up to 0.3μm or 0.01μm can be selected.
