QUESTION:

Could you please explain the need for the brass valve extruding out the backside of the 72AC? I’m assuming it is the tank drain valve. But, I have several in use where the city inspector wants to know exactly what it is and thinks we need to run a permanent pipe to a floor sink. Any expert knowledge would be appreciated!

Thank you!
Greg

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ANSWER:

Greg,

A standard 72AC brewer does not have a brass valve on the back of the it.
 
Now there is a barbed fitting on either side a 72AC these are both to make the tank easy to drain either for service or removal of equipment if it became necessary.
 
If however there is a brass valve on the back of the brewer then the brewer is outfitted for steam. So really what you should see is two "valves" ; one is the steam valve that has a green solenoid attached and the second valve is what is called a steam trap (this probably what you are seeing).  The steam trap collects water that has condensed in the steam system. When enough water has collected in the steam trap, it opens and the water is discharged at the same time it prevents steam from escaping.
 
It is possible that by health code this valve would need to be plumbed to a drain. If however they are talking about the drain fittings, these only dispense water when a tech opens the ball valve from inside the brewer and would not need to be plumbed.
 
I hope this is helpful and if you need any further information please let me know.
 
Shane A Blais
Director of Corporate Training & Logistics