Tool design: Flaw or deliberate

[newood2]

While using the PC pancake compressor today, I was thinking that every time I drain it after use I have to tilt the unit so that the water - from condensation - would escape via the drain valve. This is due to the fact that the drain valve is located toward the side of the unit instead of on the bottom center.
Seems it would make more sense if the valve was placed at the bottom center where the water settled. Then you don't have to hold it tilted or lean it up somewhere to drain. It takes 2-3 minutes but still a hassle.
What am I missing here. Is it a poor or purposeful design?
Howie

[BobSch]

Maybe to reduce the height of the unit by allowing the tank to sit closer to the floor? And why does it take 2-3 minutes? I usually open the drain on my HF compressor just long enough to clear the water, then close the valve and dump the remaining pressure using the pressure relief valve.

[crokett]

I have the same compressor and do the same thing. My thinking was the valve is where it is so you don't have to tip it sideways to unscrew it. If it is on the bottom you have to tip it on its side to get to it. Plus it stands a better chance of hitting something and getting broken.

[frumper64]

I thought one of the original design considerations for the PC pancake compressor was that it was designed for roofers, so they could set it over the top of a roof without it falling off. If that's true, then putting the drain on the bottom would likely subject it to getting whacked by the roof ridge. I think the bit about roofers came from an episode of "Cool Tools" but with my memory I could well be wrong

[pelligrini]

I wonder if not having the valve always directly under the water level was done to mitigate corrosion of the valve. My little Porter Cable 4.3gal side stack has a frame holding the tanks off the ground, but I have to tip it as well.

[LCHIEN]

Mine too, a Craftsman pancake compressor made by Devilbiss I think. Reminds me, I need to drain it.