Air Compressor Tank Blow Down And Moisture Drain
Standard operating procedure for manually draining accumulated condensate and performing a full tank blow down on stationary industrial reciprocating and rotary screw air compressors. Proper moisture removal prevents corrosion, emulsification of lubricant, and pneumatic system contamination.
To establish a standardized, safe, and repeatable method for the manual removal of accumulated water condensate and moisture-laden air from the air compressor storage tank. This procedure prevents internal tank corrosion, water carryover into the distribution piping, lubricant degradation in oil-flooded rotary screw compressors, and potential for automatic drain valve failure.
This procedure applies to all stationary industrial air compressors equipped with manual or automatic tank drain valves located in Mechanical Room 101, 102, and the South Plant Annex. It covers both reciprocating piston and rotary screw compressor types operating at pressures up to 150 psig. This is a preventive maintenance task scheduled weekly or as dictated by humidity conditions.
- Ensure compressor is isolated from the electrical supply and the automatic start circuit is locked out in accordance with CSA Z460. Depressurize the distribution header. Verify zero energy state before approaching the drain valve.
- Approved safety glasses or face shield are mandatory to protect against airborne debris and moisture spray. Wear hearing protection (minimum NRR 22 dB) during the rapid depressurization phase. Use chemically resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile) to handle condensate which may be acidic.
- Floor drain or 5-gallon bucket for condensate capture
- Chemically resistant gloves (Nitrile, or equivalent)
- Safety glasses / face shield
- Lockout/Tagout kit (lock, hasp, tag)
- Adjustable wrench or specific drain valve key (if equipped with ball valve)
- Lint-free rags