Air compressor is one of the most versatile and sophisticated machines which has paved its way into a lot of domains and applications. However, having an air compressor comes with a lot of responsibilities as well. From its adequate maintenance to great care, you need to do a lot to ensure proper working. One such thing you need to give thorough consideration to is abundant water vapor that accumulates in the air stream. These water vapors then change into the droplets as the temperature drops, making you worry about the separator. Hence, the need for a water separator or water trap.
The Need for Water Trap
This abundant water flow can have a huge impact on the working and functionality of air compressors in a negative way. Moreover, it also affects the air tools you will be working with. Therefore, you need to build a water trap. But how to build a water trap for an air compressor is a real question. It needs to be easy so that you can do it all by yourself. No need to worry anymore as we have got you covered with great information. Dive in to get to know it all. Building a water separator for your air compressor is just a read away.
Guide on How to Make a Water Trap for Your Air Compressor
You need to consider the need of doing all the effort and is it really worth your time? While great options are available in the market at affordable prices, do you really want to do it yourself? If you finally decide to accomplish this task all by yourself, we are here to help you out. First and foremost, let’s review the basic equipment and tools you will need for the project.
What Will You Require?
Below down, we have compiled the list of everything you will require in order to build a water trap for the air compressor. This list is detailed and has everything included to make sure that you have everything with you beforehand. This will let you work hassle-free and with peace of mind. Let’s see what you will need for the project.
- Copper elbow- 10 in number
- Copper pipe- 9 in total ( 2 inches)
- Copper pipes of 72 inches- 6 in number
- Ball valves which are threaded having female ends- 3 in number
- A couple of male adapters
- Copper tee- 3 in number
- Brass nipple- only 1 required
- Sheet elbow of the brass- female end
- Sheet elbow of the brass- male end
- Male adapter which is threaded
- Compression fitting made up of brass specifically for the regulator
- NPT filter used in the regulator
- Air hose for air compressor
- Brass valve which is threaded having female ends on both of the sides
- Soldering flux
- Tape- Teflon
- Torch- propane
- Solder strand
Step-by-Step Procedure of Building a Water Trap for an Air Compressor
Once you have all of this equipment and accessories with you, we can ump into making the water trap for the air compressor. Adhere to these simple steps to build the water trap the right way.
- First and foremost, you need to connect the copper elbow, 90 degrees one, with the 2 inches copper pipes. These are 3 in number and you need to do the same with all. Oxidation is another problem that you have to deal with. In order to eliminate that, you need to ensure that there is ample soldering flux on the pipes’ outer area and on the inner surface of the copper elbow. This will ensure that there is no oxide layer formation.
- Again, you are required to work with 2 inches copper pipes, 3 in number. Then, take a copper tee and connect it with each of the copper pipes. Lastly, take all the copper elbows remaining and attach them to the copper pipe’s ends. Don’t forget the soldering lux which prevents the oxide layer formation.
- This step should be carefully followed. You need to take another 3*2 inches copper pipe and connect it with a copper tee. Next, the joint needs to be connected to the pipes.
- The next step involves the use of a copper L-shaped pipe. Take all of the copper pipes and use them to connect the copper tee with the L-shaped copper pipes. One end needs to be connected to the elbow while the longer end should be attached to joints.
- Now, you need to solder the joints. This can be accomplished using a propane torch. This will ensure the elimination of leakage.
- Next, you need to take the male adapters, all 3, and attach them to the end or bottom. This will again contribute to the elimination of leakage.
- Employing the use of Teflon tape, you need to join the male adapters at the bottom with the ball joints measuring ½ inches.
- Next, divide the 72 inches pipes into 2 pipes of 36 inches each. These will go on the ends of the whole set-up.
- Now take one of the two sides and attach it with the street elbow connector made of brass. This then needs to be attached to the regulator. The other end will be connected with the air hose.
Pat yourself on the back on successfully building a DIY water trap for your air compressor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I keep water out of my air compressor tank?
In order to keep water out of the compressor tank, you need to get an air dryer that eliminates the moisture buildup in an air compressor tank.
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How does a water trap work on an air compressor?
Water separators work on the centrifugal principle. They tend to radiate the water droplets out with force to avoid the accumulation of water in the air stream pipes.
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Does my air compressor need a water separator?
Yes, these should not be considered as an optional thing but should be essential with every air compressor. You definitely require a water separator for your air compressor.
