Types of balancing valves. Purpose and features of the balancing valve. Valves from a Danish manufacturer
Everyone wants to have an economical and, at the same time, ideal heating system in their home. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen in life.
It is enough for designers to make a mistake in hydraulic or thermal calculations, and additional costs for the heating system are guaranteed.
Incorrectly selected heating fittings will also contribute. In order for the heating system to perform its functions reliably and correctly, heating engineers have in their arsenal various ways achieving this goal.
- The need for balancing
- Types of cranes
- Principle of operation
- Installation
The need for balancing
The design of a heating system assumes that at each heating point the heating device will produce required quantity heat. Unfortunately, in practice this does not always look like this.
This picture is especially noticeable in multi-storey buildings. It is not uncommon to see a picture where the lower floors are literally suffocating from the heat, while at the same time the radiators on the upper floors are lukewarm.
The same situation arises with the heating of entrances. It is much warmer in the one located closer to the DHW inlet into the house.
This difference in temperature difference is explained by the fact that the closer the heating radiator is to the input hot water, the more heat it receives. Naturally, he gives. Remote heating devices receive less heat, so they are cooler. This means that the hydraulic adjustment of the system is broken. The balance of heat distribution has disappeared.
There are few reasons for system imbalance. The main ones are:
- errors in system installation;
- error in the project or its change;
- airing of the system;
- mismanagement of the heating system;
- ignoring seasonal maintenance.
It becomes necessary to adjust it to restore uniform heating. As a result of this work, each heating device will receive the calculated amount of heat. The temperature will even out, the whole house will be equally warm. To achieve this goal, balancing valves are used.
Worth noting: installation balancing system will ensure uniform heating of each heating device in the house.
Balancing valves are divided into automatic and manual.
Manual ones are designed to configure the network during its installation, and automatic ones change the parameters of the heating network during its operation.
When selecting a valve, it is necessary to take into account many parameters, which include:
- type and parameters of the coolant;
- classification of buildings;
- adjustment parameters;
- installation location in the system;
- purpose of the system.
The types of heating systems depend on the coolant used in them. This could be water, steam, antifreeze. The performance of the system will directly depend on them.
Great importance has the type of building where the balancing valve will be installed. The installation location of the valve is also important - the supply and return pipelines have very wide differences between themselves. Therefore, the balancing devices installed on them will also be different.
The purpose of the system is very important. According to their characteristics, hot and cold water supply and heating systems have quite large discrepancies. For example, in DHW system Only thermostatic balancing valves are used. Thus, choosing a balancing valve is not as simple as it seems at first.
Expert advice: before installing a balancing valve, you must decide in advance on its choice. Maybe this is where it is enough to install a manual balancing valve.
The valve structure is clearly visible in the figure. But what is the principle of its operation, this needs to be understood.
Turning the adjusting handle changes the position of the valve spool. As a result, the size of the section between it and the saddle changes.
Thus, the coolant, passing through a large or small section of the valve, changes its pressure as the throughput changes. Thus, by adjusting the pressure, it is possible to achieve uniform heat distribution for each heating device.
To automatically adjust the heat distribution, two balancing valves are installed in the system - on the input circuit and in the return circuit. They are connected to each other. The balancing effect of the system will take place automatically.
But to do this, you will need to correctly adjust and configure the entire heating system at the very beginning, at the first start. If all the manufacturer's requirements are met, the balancing equipment works flawlessly.
Please note: some people mistakenly, on the advice of local “Kulibins,” try to install a ball valve instead of a balancing valve. The absurdity of such an idea becomes obvious immediately after the system is launched. The valve does not relate to the control valve on any side.
The insertion rules are simple, but you must follow them all. Otherwise, the desired effect will not be achieved.
When performing installation, you must perform the following operations:
- check the installation of the system;
- cut a thread at the valve installation site;
- prepare the valve for installation;
- install the valve in its place in the system;
- Install a filter in front of the valve.
After installing the balancing valve, it must be adjusted. This process is accessible only to specialists and requires special equipment and knowledge.
Please note: you should not even try to install a heating balancing system with your own hands. At best, the system will not give the expected effect, at worst, the heating system will have to be redone.
Control valves are produced by several manufacturers. Among them, one of the leading places belongs to such well-known companies as Danfoss (Danfoss), Broen, Meibes. The list can be continued.
Wide choose allows you to navigate by price and quality. Parameters such as quality and reliability provide the consumer not only with comfort, but also ultimately with significant savings.
Watch the video in which a specialist explains in detail the design and operating features of a manual balancing valve:
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Operating principle of a balancing valve in a heating system
Many people know what a balancing valve is and what it looks like. But not everyone knows the principle of its operation.
Valve application area
This valve (faucet) is intended for hydraulic balancing of hydraulic circuits (heating, engineering systems, etc.). The valve can perfectly control the permissible flow rate of coolant, thereby significantly increasing the efficiency of heating systems.
Balancing taps are used to ensure that heating is distributed equally throughout the entire water supply system. With the help of the valve, all heat costs are normalized in such a way that all the necessary hot liquid reaches the batteries in the quantity required. It is thanks to the balancing valve that heat is distributed evenly throughout all rooms of the building.
This valve can operate with fairly high pressure drops and high speeds. working environment, which cannot be said about other cranes.
Valve design
The valve design is based on the design ball valve and has certain additions. These may include an indicator for the shutter, a measuring diaphragm, a position lock, and a pipe (a tap is installed on its surface). The valve body itself can be made of either steel, silumin, or brass. The seal, as a rule, is some kind of membrane system. Such taps with a seal are much more expensive, but they do not require maintenance.
The shutter and valve seat are responsible for fluid flow. As for the valve stem, it can be downward, upward, oblique, or straight. When buying a balancing valve, you must also take into account the feature of the stem.
The stem, which has an oblique shape, has less hydraulic resistance than other similar valves. Such balancing valves have fairly high control precision and excellent flow characteristics.
Main characteristics of the valve
In addition to the fact that this valve can perfectly regulate heating flow, it also has a number of additional settings and devices. For example, the faucet can regulate smooth/step flow settings, block presets, and also regulate the operation of the temperature fuse and bypass valve.
Video: Automatic balancing valves - how it works and how it benefits you
All balancing valves (regardless of their type) have the following characteristics:
Working temperature the tap can be from -20 to + 120 degrees, - the tap has the minimum length required for installation, - information is read directly, without the use of additional devices, - does not take up excess weight, because has a compact size,
Made of durable metal, which will not lead to deformation in the future.
Balancing valves are necessary in every heating system. Depending on how large the heating area is, it is mounted required amount valves for proper operation systems. From what type heating system used indoors, the use of the necessary balancing equipment directly depends.
housedb.ru
What is a balancing valve for a heating system
Any type of heating system requires some adjustment or balancing. The purpose of this process is to drive the coolant flow in each of the heating branches to the calculated parameter so that each radiator receives a sufficient amount of heat for stable operation.
Previously, differences in pipe diameters were used, regulated this moment using washers that could provide the required amount of fluid flow. However, today all these means are obsolete - they have been replaced by a balancing valve, which looks very similar to a standard valve.
In its design, it is additionally equipped with two fittings that perform following functions:
- Measure the pressure in front of the valve and immediately behind it;
- A capillary tube can be connected to them so that it can interact with a number of other control valves.
This device has whole line positive characteristics:
- Allows you to significantly reduce costs. People who have installed such devices say that after such work, the amount of fuel used is significantly reduced;
- It becomes much more comfortable to be in the room. It turns out that in each room you can get one temperature regime, which will be more suitable for her;
- Eliminates most of the difficulties that arise during the system startup process. This process becomes quite simple.
If the battery does not have a thermostatic valve, then you cannot do without a balancing device. They always place it only on the return pipe, and this is done where it approaches the common main. With a small number of radiators in the house - about 5 pieces - this device allows you to configure everything efficiently.
For more radiators this system will not work, since some radiators will heat up more than necessary, others less. As a result, the balance will be upset.
In order to ensure in this case normal functioning, a differential pressure regulator is installed immediately behind the balancing valve; they are connected to each other using a capillary tube. The valve is adjusted to the highest flow rate, and as hot water consumption decreases, the pressure in the pipes will begin to increase.
Due to the capillary tube of the differential pressure regulator, the flow rate will be adjusted. As a result, the system will be able to maintain its hydraulic balance.
Balancing valve diagram for a heating system
Valve installation
Balancing valves VIR 9505 for heating and cooling systems
The balancing valve, designed for use in the heating system of a private home, is not a very complicated device to install, so you can install it yourself. It should be noted that the correct position must be ensured.
There is an arrow on the valve body that indicates the direction of water movement. Therefore, it must be placed in the position as shown on the valve. As a result of this action, it is possible to obtain the required design resistance and the required coolant flow.
It is worth noting that some manufacturers produce universal devices, which can be mounted as desired. The balancing valve must be cleaned of any contamination before installation. In addition, various foreign impurities can also pass inside the heating system. In this regard, you will need to install two filters in front of the tap - coarse and medium.
To prevent turbulence in the system, it is necessary to make small straight sections of pipe before and after the valve. Often the manufacturer provides similar requirements in the valve instructions.
The valve must be installed using some specific rules. In particular, filling the system with coolant, if its design has a balancing valve, must be done according to special technology. To do this, you will have to install filling fittings in the system.
This is quite suitable for designs equipped with dynamic valves. They are placed as close as possible to the valve, closer to the heating boiler on the return pipe. The supply line must first be shut off.
The instructions for the valve operating in automatic mode contain a special table indicating the pressure drop and the corresponding flow rate. However, all preliminary calculations should be made before installation work begins.
Connecting a tap with automation
There are a lot of manufacturers of balancing valves; high-quality products are produced by Danfoss. This is a Russian manufacturer, so such products are not too expensive - 2300 rubles. They are made from of stainless steel or duralumin.
Among foreign manufacturers, the most popular are Italian products of the Giacomini brand. The most versatile of these valves is the R206C model. We can say that these products are the best in the whole world. In this regard, they have such a high cost - at least 5,000 rubles.
Another Russian company produces valves that are equipped on both sides with all the necessary filters. Despite the fact that the product is of quite high quality and also includes filters, the cost of Watts valves is not too high - only 1,500 rubles.
housetronic.ru
Balancing valve in the heating system: its purpose, installation and features
Most modern users perceive the heating system as a set of pipes and radiators, complemented by a heating boiler and circulation pump. But such opinions are erroneous. It also contains a number of auxiliary components, without which the heating operation, to put it mildly, would not be of very high quality. One of these elements is a balancing tap or valve.
Purpose
A balancing valve in a heating system is used to ensure proper distribution of heat transfer. That is, there are times when in one room the batteries are hotter than required, and in another they are much colder than desired. That is, improper distribution of the coolant occurs. This means that adjustment is required to correct this situation.
The balancing valve is a type shut-off valves, through which the hydraulic resistance is regulated. This is achieved by changing the cross-sectional diameter of the pipe in a certain area.
IN Lately when designing heating (both for an apartment building and a private house), a balancing valve is immediately added to the system. However, what should owners of ready-made heating systems do?
There are several “symptoms” that indicate the need to install shut-off valves of this type:
- Absence comfortable temperature even at maximum load.
- Significant fluctuations in room temperature with a constantly equal load in the heating system.
- Difficulties in starting the system - inability to reach rated power.
All this indicates that it is necessary to install a balancing valve and carry out regulation. It will allow you to adjust the flow of coolant to one or another part of the system.
Benefits of use
Installing a balancing valve will help solve the above problems in heating operation.
In addition, the following advantages of using this equipment can be highlighted:
- Reduced costs - that is, owners of private houses note that after balancing the system, the amount of fuel consumed decreases.
- Increasing indoor comfort - you can achieve a more suitable temperature level for each individual room.
- No difficulties during startup - the use of balancing fittings will simplify the startup of the system as much as possible.
How often do the Housing Office receive questions regarding heating of residential premises? Constantly! Some residents have constant cold in their house, others feel hot, and still others hear irritating sounds from the pipes. But, unfortunately, utility services cannot please all residents at the same time. But there is a solution to this problem, and this is a balancing valve for the heating system.
Reasons for uneven heat distribution in rooms
Modern high-rise buildings and private houses are heated using a heating system consisting of radiators and piping. Both elements form one structure through which a flow of hot water spreads evenly to heat the living space.
However, despite the fact that the water supply pipes are made of durable metal, and professionals design the heating system, problems often arise with an uneven supply of hot water through the pipes. Additional reasons There may also be low pressure, high water flow or large amounts of cold air inside the pipes.
Figure 1: Pipe pressure measuring device
What is a balancing valve for?
Solve the problem with uneven distribution There are several ways to heat rooms. Due to their internal malfunction. In other cases, such as self-adjustment of the flow of hot water or decreasing/increasing pressure inside the pipes, it is necessary to use a balancing valve for a two-pipe heating system.
It is made in the form of a small fitting with a valve on top. The balancer is built into the heating system and regulates the flow of warm water through the pipes. At the same time, he also ensures that the pressure in the water supply remains within normal limits. Then the liquid inside the structure does not stagnate, gradually moves through the pipes and evenly distributes heat.
Figure 2: structure of a balancing valve In addition, installing a balancing valve provides the following advantages:
- Saving money on heating bills.
- Creating the most comfortable air temperature in the room.
- Makes it easier to start the heating system.
Another important advantage of this device is the fact that it can extend the life of the batteries. Sooner or later, any heating system has to be balanced due to constant pressure surges and harsh operating conditions during the cold season. That's why old system heating system may fail. At best, it will stop heating one part of the building; at worst, the pipes will not withstand the pressure and their contents may begin to leak.
Figure 3: Benefits of installing a balancing valve (1 - saves money, 2 - creates a comfortable air temperature in the room, 3 - makes it easier to start the heating system, 4 - extends battery life) Types of balancing valves
You can install a balancing valve on any heating system. But besides the usual double-pipe indoor one, there are other pipelines. For them, designers have invented other device options that can be classified according to different operating principles.
- Based on their operation, valves are divided into manual and automatic. Such a device can be placed on one of the sections of the battery, where you can easily reach it. If a person plans to use the balancing valve constantly, then it is better to use the manual version of the device. It looks like a pipe attachment with a valve, with which you can control the flow of hot water. If the room is hot enough, then just turn the valve, and the valve will create an obstruction inside the pipe. This way the battery has less source of heat and gradually cools down.
There are also options for manual balancers, which are designed to adjust several radiators at once. This version of the device helps a person set the same air temperature in all rooms of his living space.
The automatic type of balancing valves carries out this process independently without human intervention. Usually they are installed in pairs on one pipeline, then the minimum and maximum amount of heat that the batteries must produce is selected (the calculation is made by professionals). And the balancing valve regulates the heat supply in accordance with the schedule entered into the device.
Figure 4: Manual balancing valves for different types batteries - By engineering system valves are divided into combined and specific. From the name it is clear that balancing of a particular type is intended for a narrow purpose. One type of valve provides only heating in the room, others provide water supply, and still others provide air conditioning. Combined ones combine all three purposes, while having a more complex design and higher cost.
- According to the method of locking mechanism inside the pipe, valves and balls are distinguished. Inside the device there is a part with the help of which the water flow is regulated. Most often, buyers prefer mechanisms with valves. In their opinion, they are more accurate during the adjustment process. But ball valves, on the contrary, are less accurate. But if not ordinary hot water flows through the pipes, but a viscous substance with good heat transfer, then the second type of valves will be more successful in use.
Figure 5: Balancer mechanism with locking valve (sectional view) - According to the adjustment parameter. Balancing valves are divided into four types: flow valves - count the fluid flow in the pipes, temperature valves - monitor the set temperature, to balance pressure, and combined valves - combine all adjustments of other types.
However, it is worth remembering that setting the flow of hot water in the heating pipe is not the only variable in this process. As the heat supply decreases, the pressure inside the pipes begins to increase. That's why to an ordinary person It’s not enough to just choose your balancer settings. Before you start using it, the device must be connected to the heating system, and then set the starting settings for the minimum and maximum liquid flow. Only a professional can do this. After the installation process, an ordinary user can make his own adjustments to the operation of the device within the settings of the wizard.
Figure 6: balancer adjustment parameters (1 - consumables use a meter to control the amount of water used, 2 - adjust the water flow, 3 - adjust the air temperature, 4 - regulate the pressure in the pipes, the picture shows a device for checking) Balancing Valve Installation
The only classification that was not indicated in the previous paragraph concerns the installation of an apartment balancing valve in the heating system. They are divided into several types according to the method of fastening the reinforcement:
- Threaded;
- Flanged;
- Welding.
Figure 7: The image shows a manual valve with threaded fittings for installation The strength of the balancing valve does not depend on the method of attaching it to the main structure of the heating system. This already depends on the plant that assembled and developed the device.
However, in order to general design hold tightly and reliably, and has served its owner for many years, there are several tips.
Firstly, on the body of the balancing valve there is already a hint on how to install it correctly. At the junction of the fittings and the pipe there is an arrow, which during installation must coincide in the direction of the fluid flow. Thus, the closing valve or ball itself will create resistance during temperature adjustment.
If there is no such arrow, then the manufacturer has made sure that the valve is installed regardless of the direction of flow.
Secondly, before you begin installing the valve, you need to take care of its safety in case of possible mechanical damage. To do this, you need to make a layer of filter and sump in front of the valve.
Thirdly, mechanical stress on the valve may be due to turbulence. To reduce its impact on the structure, the valve should be installed only on straight sections of the pipe. The distance at which the pipeline bend and the valve should be is indicated in the instructions for the device. This parameter may be different for each model.
Setting the balancing valve
After the valve has been installed, the balancing valve adjustment process begins. Of course, the heating system itself already has its own characteristics of in which direction the liquid should flow through the pipes, at what speed and under what pressure. However, over time it experiences failures. And therefore the balancers regulate this process instead of it.
Before you begin individual settings of the balancer, you need to find out the characteristics of the pipeline itself, and adjust the device values to suit them. But even this is not done using any formula from the school curriculum or calculator.
To do this, the balancer installation technician must have a special table in which the main values of all variables in the pipeline are selected and their compliance with the standards of the device itself. For more precise settings you may need special tools, like a flow meter.
Figure 8: the image shows a device for checking pressure in pipes and other parameters - a flow meter Conclusion
A balancing valve is an excellent alternative to other heat sources, such as space heaters, for several reasons. Firstly, they are implemented directly into the heating system. Secondly, they save money to pay utility bills. Thirdly, they extend the life of the pipeline indoors. Fourthly, it does not take up much space. And an equally important fifth plus, which makes it worth purchasing this device, is its simple controls.
The device built into the balancing valve for the heating system is very easy to use when it comes to room appliances. To adjust the temperature in them, just turn the valve a little, and the device itself will make all the other settings for the person. The automatic type of device does not require human participation at all. It adapts to environmental conditions.
Therefore, the only thing that depends on the buyer today is to make his choice in favor of quality manufacturer, and not a cheap balancing valve, you also need to find suitable master, which will help with its installation.
Any heating system needs timely and high-quality adjustment; these manipulations can be carried out in a variety of ways.
Only if all parameters in individual sections of the network are as close as possible to the calculated data will it be possible to achieve high efficiency work.
That is why, for high-quality adjustment, a universal balancing valve for the heating system is used.
Requires precise superstructure of all data for maximum efficient work
a brief description of
Every heating system needs professional hydraulic tuning. The main task of such adjustment is to regulate fuel consumption to the initial calculated indicator, so that for each installed battery the required amount of heat was supplied. The system setup itself displays the final water consumption for a certain area, which was previously calculated.
It must be remembered that any water system requires initial setup Traditional schemes involve ensuring optimal flow rates with a special pipe diameter. If the heating system has more complex configurations, then adjustment is carried out with universal washers.
Each of them has a certain passage diameter, due to which the required volume of water is supplied.
Of course, such configuration methods do not belong to innovative technologies, since in modern world It is common to use an automatic balancing valve for a heating system. It is customary to add two fittings to this mechanism, which constantly test the pressure value in different zones in relation to the main control device.
Such parts are also used for mounting a specific capillary tube. Experts say that modern fittings interact perfectly with various elements management.
In this video you will learn how the balancing valve works:
Features and Benefits
Those who have already worked with control valves note that their characteristics are almost similar to other pipeline elements. For the manufacture of such parts, brass and bronze are used, but galvanized products can also be found. Interesting fact It is believed that more than 90% of the total assortment on the world market is occupied by brass valves. This trend arose due to their reliability and durability.
Reliability and durability are the main factors when choosing a valve Among the many positive characteristics of balancing valves for heating systems, the following can be noted:
- Affordable price.
- The work associated with the planned setup of the system is significantly simplified.
- High degree of reliability.
- The master has an excellent opportunity to fine-tune the temperature and pressure level.
- Long service life.
There are practically no negative characteristics of such products. In addition, in domestic use there is simply no alternative to balancing valves.
Types of valves and their design features
Today, there are two types of control valves, each of which has its own performance characteristics. Before buying a particular model, you need to carefully study their basic description. Most often, all specialists install the following balancing valves:
- Universal unit with automatic system management. A special feature of such products is that they completely control the heating system without human intervention. The functionality of the valve allows you to maintain a constant pressure difference between the return and supply two-pipe system. As for single-pipe heating, the device controls the continuous flow of coolant. Available for sale multifunctional models, which work perfectly in tandem with each other. The use of such units leads to changes in the flow rate and pressure difference in the pipeline. It is worth noting that the coordinated operation of such valves occurs thanks to a special impulse tube. Interior The automatic device is more reminiscent of a piston pressure reducer. But they should not be confused, because they perform completely different functions.
- Manual valve. This device occupies a leading position in demand due to affordable price and durability.
Any quality item should include O-rings, e.g. But among the main design features, experts note several nuances. The thing is that a high-quality part must consist of the following elements:
- Universal adjustment spindle. The main working part is presented in the form of a cone, screwed into a special saddle. At the moment the spindle is activated, the coolant flow is completely blocked.
- The cap, which can be made from various materials, but most often made of plastic. It is worth noting that metal products are considered to be of the highest quality and most durable.
- A durable brass body, which is equipped with all the necessary threaded pipes so that the user can connect the pipes. In the internal compartment of the device there is a special seat in the form of a small vertical channel.
- O-rings made of high quality rubber.
But the main feature of such a valve is that it is equipped with two fittings at once.
These units perform the following functions:
- They control the pressure level inside the system both before and after the valve.
- Provide reliable fixation of the capillary tube.
Each fitting necessarily measures the pressure level, and if during operation sudden changes in values were detected on the regulating mechanism, then the water flow is calculated.
Three-way valve for heating systems:
Operating principle according to the standard scheme
Novice craftsmen are often interested in why a balancing valve is needed in a heating system. But before you meet functionality this unit, it is necessary to study the principle of setting up the system. It is enough for the master to imagine a dead-end branch with several standard batteries, which act as a kind of source of energy consumption. A certain volume of heated coolant is supplied to them.
It is worth noting that the design temperature is selected based on the fact that it is enough to heat a certain room.
The exact cost figure will be known only after the master has carried out all the necessary calculations.
Difficulties arise when special thermostatic valves are not installed on the radiators. The thing is that any hydraulic adjustments will be made using a manual balancing valve. Fix this part on the return pipeline. When all necessary calculations produced, then the valve is set to a certain number of revolutions. As practice shows, a constant flow rate is always observed in the regulated branch.
During installation, you will save on radiators Despite this, many owners of private houses are wondering how to properly adjust the valve when the flow changes periodically. Initially, it should be noted that this situation occurs when conventional radiators are equipped with universal thermostatic regulators responsible for heating the room. Such details can create an additional obstacle in the path of water, which will affect the flow intensity. In this case, the flow rates will change significantly in the return pipeline.
Timely installation of balancing devices will allow you to achieve the effect when you do not need to install too many radiators (usually 5 pieces are enough). If the master decides to limit the thermostat control limits, he will be able to quickly adjust the heating circuit.
Of course, there can be more than five radiators, but they will definitely go to waste. If you block the flow of coolant from the thermostat of the first radiator, the technician will be faced with an increase in flow to the second battery. The valve will definitely close, and the flow will go to the next unit. It is this principle of operation that will be considered relevant for all heat consumers. If the technician does not take urgent measures, then some radiators will overheat very much, while others, on the contrary, will not have enough coolant.
Balancing valve with internal thread STAD:
Professional installation
Installation and adjustment of the balancing valve is not considered difficult, since Every man can cope with these tasks. The main difficulty can only arise from the fact that it will be difficult for the master to achieve a certain position of the unit. The arrow on the body must be in the direction of water movement. Only in this case can you obtain the optimal design resistance and correct flow rate. Some modern manufacturers allow installation of the valve both in the direction and against the main flow. Depending on the chosen model, the rod may occupy different positions.
A quality valve must provide for the need reliable protection working parts of the valves: ingress of various mechanical contaminants is unacceptable. It is for this purpose that a special mud trap or filter is mounted in front of the device. To avoid turbulent water flow, it is necessary to provide straight sections of pipe of sufficient length both before and after the valve.
It is worth noting that this very requirement is included in the accompanying documentation of reliable manufacturers.
Network balancing
Most often, those craftsmen who professionally install heating systems determine the coolant flow on the batteries very in a simple way : take the total number of revolutions of the balancing valve and divide by the number of used heating devices. Such simple steps help to find out the optimal adjustment step. Gradually moving from the last radiator to the first, carefully close the taps with the resulting difference in speed.
In addition to the main adjustment method, there is an additional, possibly more accurate Of course, this method is approximate, since it does not provide for the option that batteries can be different power. That is why it is better to use it for preliminary tuning, which allows for certain corrections to be made during active operation.
A completely different method, which is based on measuring the actual surface temperature of batteries, deserves special attention. The balancing valve can be adjusted correctly as follows:
- Initially, you need to gradually open absolutely all the valves and put the system into operating mode with a supply temperature of +80˚C.
- Using a contact thermometer, it is necessary to measure the temperature of each heating device.
- All differences in data must be eliminated by tightening the taps of the middle and first batteries. It is forbidden to touch the latter. The near radiator should be opened slightly by 1.5 turns of the valve, but the middle ones by 2.5.
- The system needs to be given a little time to adapt to completely new operating conditions. After 30 minutes, you need to take measurements again. The main task of the master is to achieve a minimum temperature difference between the batteries closest and farthest to the boiler.
It is also worth considering that weather conditions and the temperature outside the window do not affect the performance at all, only the difference in the heating of the radiators is important.
Disassembly of automatic balancing valves ASV series:
Experienced installers of heating systems note that any adjustment work should be carried out on the basis of calculated data, which is especially important when drawing up project documentation. To prevent errors, you need to use a special valve diagram and measurements taken in advance. The adjustment process begins only when the handle rotates and the spindle moves. If the master does not have all the necessary measurements at hand, then the adjustment process itself will be considered conditional. In this case, efficiency and accuracy cannot even be discussed.
As for straight pipe sections that prevent water turbulence, their length must be at least 10 cm. If we are talking about automatic device, then in the main unit there must be a fitting that plays important role when filling the circuit with the inlet valve closed.
Having your own living space comes with daily responsibility. The level of comfort in the home is an indicator that makes it clear how successfully the responsibilities assumed are being fulfilled. To maintain comfortable living conditions, you need to pay attention to a large number of things every day. everyday aspects. One of them is the room temperature. How are balancing valves related to its condition? It turns out - in the most direct way.
The heating system is primarily responsible for the correct temperature conditions. Its varieties and types may differ in their complexity and structural components, but the result of the work should always be the same - the most comfortable room temperature for all residents at optimal costs. After all, problems with heating can lead to changes in the microclimate in an apartment or house, as well as to an increase in utility bills.
The operating principle of the heating system implies that the coolant moves from one unit to another. Radiators are filling up hot water and due to this, the main heating occurs, which should be sufficient for the entire living area. However, this does not always happen, because a perfectly functioning heating system can only exist on paper. One way or another, during operation the level of heat transfer decreases - the temperature and pressure level in the pipeline changes. This, in turn, affects the distribution of media throughout the system. Bottom line: one room can be a real tropics, and the second - an icy desert.
The problem is outlined: hot water is unevenly distributed through the pipes - it is much more difficult to achieve a comfortable temperature in the room. Now we need to find a solution. And it lies in the already mentioned phrase “balancing valves”.
What is a balancing valve?
Balancing valve (balancing valve, balancing valve) - view pipeline fittings and an important auxiliary element of the heating system. Its main function is the effective distribution of heat transfer.
Any heating system needs correct setting: the calculated heat transfer rates must coincide with the real ones. One of the most modern and convenient means for this is balancing valves. They are simple mechanical devices that work smoothly. Externally, they are somewhat similar to the manual taps we are used to, but provide smoother and more flexible adjustment. The valve plays an important role in balancing the heating system and optimizing coolant flow.
We understand the purpose, but how do balancing valves work?
The principle of their operation is quite simple. By adjusting the valve, the size of the flow area changes. Following it is the pressure level in the area where it is installed. Accordingly, with an increase or decrease in the cross-sectional size, the pressure level and flow rate of hot water that enters the radiators changes. Such balancing of the heating system allows you to achieve the highest possible efficiency of its operation. By adjusting the pressure level and media flow using a balancing valve, residents will be able to obtain the required amount of heat in each room. In addition, the design usually also has special inputs (fittings), thanks to which you can connect measuring devices and calculate the flow rate of the medium moving through the heating system.
It is probably difficult to understand the design of a balancing valve; what does it consist of?
In fact, there is nothing complicated in the design. A manual balancing valve is a valve-type device and usually consists of a body, an adjustment mechanism, the valve itself and two fittings, which are designed to measure the pressure before and after the control mechanism (thanks to them, the final flow rate of the medium in the area can be calculated). The adjustment occurs using a speed scale located on the adjustment mechanism (spindle). The automatic version of the valve additionally contains a differential pressure control cartridge, and the manual valve is replaced with a preset bandwidth.
There are many variations of valves on the market, so designs vary different manufacturers vary and may contain additional elements.
It looks like it's really simple. How to install balancing valves? Do they need to be somehow connected to the system?
They are usually used in one- and two-pipe heating systems and, if not included in the default design, are installed using special adapters and fittings. Installation of the structure can occur in both horizontal and vertical positions. It does not cause any particular difficulties: all the details are described in the instructions included in the kit. However, it is important to follow one rule: the arrow on the body of the balancing valve must coincide with the direction of movement of the coolant through the pipe (although some manufacturers make exceptions, providing the opportunity to install the valve against the flow).
When installing any valve, you should also adhere to general recommendations that will simplify the process:
- A strainer installed in front of the valve will help prevent clogging of the pipeline;
- You can track the pressure level thanks to pressure gauges, which are recommended to be installed before and after the valve;
- the valve body must be free from excessive physical impacts and stress;
- to install the structure, it is important to choose a location that is accessible and convenient for maintenance;
- the valve must be placed on a straight section of the pipeline (the specific length of the straight sections before and after the valve is determined by the specific manufacturer in the instructions);
- Before installation, the pipeline must be flushed.
The installation principle is clear, now you need to select the appropriate valve. Which one is suitable?
When choosing a balancing valve, you need to take into account, first of all, the type of heating system. They are divided into dynamic and static . The first ones are used radiator thermostats, which automatically respond to the slightest changes in room temperature. This leads to the fact that the coolant flow is constantly changing. Designed for such systems automatic balancing valves that are independently capable of maintaining the pressure level and stabilizing differences in the pipeline.
If the system is not equipped with automated pressure and media flow regulators, then it can be called static . Designed for such cases manual balancing valve. He, in turn, may be coupling or flange . The first one is connected to the system using internal thread, and the second - using bolts.
In addition, the choice also depends on the specific purpose and needs. Valves may differ in pressure and temperature parameters, throughput, installation location, type of connection, additional functionality and other criteria. It is important to first calculate all the necessary values and characteristics of the heating system in order to correctly select the balancing valve.
Good day to everyone who reads this post! In it I will tell you about balancing valves for heating systems. Let's start by figuring out why a balancing valve is needed in a heating system.
Why is a balancing valve needed?
In modern large heating systems, uneven heating is often observed different rooms. This is due to different coolant flow rates through the branches of the heating system. The coolant (like an electric current) tries to flow along the path of least resistance, therefore, at a great distance from the heat source (thermal unit or boiler), the flow rate should be less than near it. In order to equalize the coolant flow through different branches, balancing valves are used.
As can be seen from the top figure, the flow rate in heating circuits of different lengths will be different and the temperature in the rooms will also be strikingly different. Now let's talk about the types of balancing valves.
Types of balancing valves.
Balancing valves come in two main types:
Danfoss has done very interesting video about the operation of manual balancing valves. I advise you to watch this video from beginning to end. It shows unexpected patterns of operation of this type of valve:
From the figure it is clear that internal organization An automatic balancing valve resembles a piston pressure reducer, but the functions of these devices are completely different. I bring to your attention two videos on this topic:
To simplify the setup of heating systems, special measuring instruments, which simplify and speed up system balancing. Look at the picture below:
Installation of balancing valves.
The installation of a balancing valve is carried out in the same way as the installation of ball valves. The position of the valve in space does not affect its operation, but you need to pay attention to the arrow, which indicates the recommended direction of flow. If it is mixed up, the valve will create greater resistance to the flow of coolant. Valves can be installed on both supply and return pipelines.
Operating temperature and pressure may vary depending on the specific model, so it is best to select the equipment you need using manufacturer catalogs. You can find them on the official websites of manufacturers.
Summary.
Installation of balancing valves is necessary in large heating systems. They allow optimal distribution of coolant throughout all circuits. For the operation of such equipment, it is important correct installation and subsequent setup. It is necessary to consider the installation of valves at the design stage of the system. That's all, I'm waiting for your questions in the comments!
