Abstract: Solenoid operated condensate drain valve arrangements for steam systems are described having the following features:(a) powered by electromotive force obtained by the Seebeck effect;(b) where electrical sensing probe means control operation of the arrangement, the provision of thermal switch means overriding the action of the probe means and enabling air to escape from the system under start-up conditions;(c) provision of a monitoring circuit that allows escape of trapped steam which may be having a steam locking effect;(d) provision of a monitoring circuit that gives a measure of automatic drainage in the event of some failure in the drain valve arrangement.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electrically operated condensate drain valve arrangement for draining condensate from a fluid transfer system, the arrangement comprising a condensate drain valve (3), an electronic circuit (5 or 21) for controlling operation of the valve, and at least one sensing element (1 or 19 and 20) for insertion in the fluid transfer system to trigger the electronic circuit for operating the valve when a predetermined condition in the system is sensed by the sensing element; the electronic circuit including a delay means (10) imparting a desired minimum period between successive particular operations of the valve. In one use the predetermined condition is that condensate level is below the sensing element and the circuit is triggered to close the valve when this condition is sensed.