Automation for gas heating boilers. Basic functions and types of automation for gas heating boilers. Which automation is better - mechanical or electronic?
There are three main reasons why automation is installed:
- saving energy consumption;
- improving ease of use;
- increasing the safety of working with equipment.
The boiler automation system allows you to configure the operation of the equipment so that raw materials are used as efficiently and effectively as possible. Efficiency increases, not only does consumption save, but the microclimate in the house also becomes more comfortable.
The nodes for automation may include:
- temperature regulators;
- sensors for water heaters;
- fans;
- weather-compensated automation;
- heating regulator;
- draft regulators;
- circuit return sensor.
Range
Of the total number of manufacturers operating on the market, the German brands Buderus, Vaillant and Viessmann received the best expert ratings. Their automation, manufactured for gas and solid fuel boilers, is highly accurate and reliable.
Automated Buderus systems very simple and inexpensive. They configure the operation of the device for economical fuel consumption, the necessary comfort parameters, including weather dependence. They are easy to maintain and configure. Control systems ensure that the set comfort values are maintained.
Steam boiler and other types of automation from Vaillant are not cheap, but they are distinguished by a high degree of reliability and durability. Offered for sale wide range products of this brand.
Viessmann pays great attention to advanced technologies, so all its boiler safety and resource management automation is based on the latest developments, compact, environmentally friendly and efficient.
Household heating appliances operating on liquefied or natural gas do not require constant attention and control from the owners. This task is performed by automation for gas heating boilers.
Electronic and mechanical control units integrated into the heat generator regulate combustion and help maintain the required temperature in the coolant.
The automation works properly, accurately and reliably, increases the efficiency of heating equipment, promotes reasonable consumption of energy resources and makes the operation of the heating system simple, comfortable and absolutely safe.
The automatic system protects heating installations from overloads and activates an emergency shutdown of the gas supply in the event of sudden force majeure circumstances. Additionally, the equipment regulates the level of combustion intensity and current fuel consumption, allowing owners to save money on heating the premises.
The automatic unit has flexible settings and allows the owner to set the most convenient operating parameters for the equipment.
By basic principle work and design features automation for gas-powered equipment is divided into:
- energy dependent devices;
- energy-independent devices.
Systems of the first type are complex electronic units that require an uninterrupted electrical supply to operate correctly. The second types of devices are simplified mechanical structures that do not require energy supply.
Type #1 - volatile products
Volatile module is a small electronic device that responds to the supply of fuel. Turns on and off when the main one is activated or closed gas tap. Is different complex design And big amount elements and microcircuits.
Allows owners to solve the following tasks:
- activation or termination of gas supply;
- launch heating system in automatic mode;
- adjusting the power level of the base burner (due to the presence of a thermostat);
- turning off a running boiler both in emergency situations and within a user-specified mode;
- display of current indicators ( general level air temperature in the room, the point to which the working coolant is heated, etc.).
More sophisticated modules have additional functionality and offer users unlimited and most convenient conditions for monitoring the operation and control of the unit. Electronic panels provide full protection heating equipment from malfunction and prevent the boiler from freezing.
If the temperature in the room drops sharply, the “smart” system itself starts the heating equipment and turns it off when the home is filled with comfortable warm air.
The self-diagnosis option available for individual modules prevents malfunctions and facilitates timely detection. faulty parts and nodes in the system. It makes it possible to notice a breakdown as early as possible and replace some small element even before it creates a real problem for the equipment.
Minor breakdowns of the heating system eventually turn into global complications and entail costs associated with the repair and dismantling (full or partial) of the equipment. Self-diagnosis helps to identify a malfunction and makes it possible to eliminate it in a timely manner.
Electronic automation, responsible for the safe operation of the equipment, ensures uninterrupted operation of the boiler, prevents the system from overheating and shuts off the gas supply in the event of a drop in draft or extinguishment of the flame in the burner.
The range of energy-dependent automation on the market today is pleasingly diverse. Useful and necessary mini-units are produced by world-famous brands and small companies that are just trying to earn their place in the sun.
Volatile automation is presented in the form of a control panel, where the user can set the operating parameters of the equipment that are convenient for them. The cost of a “smart” element is high, but the costs are justified, because with the help of a control unit you can reduce resource consumption without any damage to your own comfort
Among the models offered there are both very simple products and more advanced units with a programming option.
On them, the user can choose the ones most suitable for himself and program the system to operate in day/night mode or, based on the weather forecast, set a certain level of heating of the house or apartment for a period of 1 to 7 days.
Type #2 - non-volatile units
Non-volatile automation more simple and practical. Control and adjustment are carried out manually using mechanical rotary toggle switches and are not difficult even for those who are far from technology. The device operates completely autonomously and does not need to be connected to a central electrical system.
For heating a residential building and supplying hot water In the taps, it is enough to turn the control knob in the direction of increasing by 2-3 divisions. If you need to take a bath or shower, the toggle switch must be set to the maximum setting
The product is marked with a digital scale with a list of values from minimum to maximum. To activate, the user selects the desired mark and in this way sets the appropriate operating temperature directly to the boiler.
After these manipulations, it connects and takes control of the specified heating mode. The boiler actively works until the room warms up to the desired temperature. Then the thermostat turns off the gas supply to the system and is activated again only when the room gets colder.
The operating principle is based on the specific design of the device. Thermocouple built into the heat exchanger gas boiler equipped with a special rod. It is made from a special iron-nickel alloy called invar.
The physical characteristics of this advanced material give it the ability to almost instantly capture minimal temperature fluctuations.
If the room becomes too hot or too cold, the size of the rod changes. The connecting valve reacts to this and promptly shuts off or activates the flow of gas to the burner.
The presence of a non-volatile automatic control system allows users to set the most suitable temperature regime in their house or apartment and use fuel economically without overpaying on utility bills
Additionally, non-volatile type automation has sensitive ones. If the pressure in the pipe suddenly decreases or the draft level in the chimney drops for some reason, the supply of the resource is immediately stopped and gas leakage can be avoided.
Non-volatile automation costs quite reasonable money and, unlike electronic analogues, does not require the purchase and installation of a stabilizer that controls voltage and equalizes unexpected surges in the central power grid
Correct operation of the flame sensor is ensured by a special plate. During normal and correct operation of the system, it is in a slightly curved state.
In this way, the part holds the shutoff valve in the “ Open" When the flame becomes smaller, the plate is leveled and the valve closes under its pressure.
Design and operating principle
The automation that controls the work consists of many elements, conditionally divided into two subgroups. The first includes mechanisms that ensure the full and safe functioning of the boiler itself. The second includes devices that make it possible to operate the heating system in the most convenient and user-friendly mode.
Components of a security system
Several modules are responsible for the operational safety of the unit:
- Flame controller– consists of two main parts – solenoid valve and thermocouples. Shuts off gas promptly and reliably and prevents leakage.
- Thermostat– maintains the set coolant temperature and protects the system from overheating. When the coolant cools down to minimum temperatures, the module starts the boiler into operation, and after recording peak-high readings, it turns it off, completely relieving the owners of the need to constantly pay attention to the system.
- Traction control sensor, is responsible for stopping the gas supply to the burner in case of change basic position bimetallic plate, thus preventing gas leakage.
- Safety valve– monitors the amount of coolant in the circuit.
In addition to all the above useful qualities, automation has a number of additional functions, increasing the comfort of using the equipment.
The device performs automatic ignition of the gas burner, selects the most effective operating mode, promotes rational consumption of energy resources and conducts independent diagnostics, saving the owners from all these activities.
Operating principle of security automation
Current normative documents says that the safety complex of gas boilers must be equipped with a device that stops the operation of the entire system and cuts off the gas supply in the event of an unexpected breakdown or any other force majeure circumstances.
To carry out this task, automation must keep under control such parameters as:
- gas pressure in the system;
- presence of an optimal size flame in the burner;
- full, high-quality traction;
- working coolant temperature level.
When in a non-volatile mechanical system the gas pressure drops to a critical level, the supply of the resource immediately stops. This happens automatically due to the presence of a valve mechanism set to a certain value.
Volatile electronic devices are designed slightly differently. In them, the above function is performed by a minimum/maximum pressure switch.
As the number of atmospheres increases, the membrane with the rod bends, opening the power contacts of the boiler itself. Gas stops flowing and is not supplied until the pressure level is restored.
It is prohibited by law to independently troubleshoot problems and somehow interfere with the basic functionality of the equipment. Only a qualified specialist - an employee of the gas supply company - can correct any problems that arise.
If the flame disappears in the burner, the thermocouple cools down and stops producing current. After this, the electromagnetic damper in the valve no longer functions and gas stops flowing to the burner. When the thrust drops, the bimetallic plate heats up intensely, changes shape and acts on the valve, causing it to stop supplying fuel.
The coolant temperature is kept under control by a thermostat. It ensures that the user-selected heating mode is maintained, while preventing the system from overheating and failing.
Nuances of the system's functioning
Volatile electronic automation operates based on information received from sensors. The microprocessor and internal controller analyze this data, process it and provide the system with commands that are optimally suited for a particular situation.
In order for electronic automation to function normally for a long time, it is necessary to call a technician annually to inspect the equipment, diagnose the microprocessor and view memory module reports
Mechanics have a slightly different principle. When the boiler is turned off, the internal gas valve is completely closed. At the moment the equipment is started, the washer on the valve is squeezed out and the passage for the fuel resource to the igniter is forced to open. Ignition stimulates heating of the thermocouple and voltage is generated across it.
This resource uses an electromagnet to maintain the valve in the open position. By turning the washer manually, the user can effortlessly adjust the level and power of his heating equipment.
Review of popular models and manufacturers
The market for progressive gas equipment and related elements includes both domestic and foreign manufacturers. According to the principle of operation, all devices are absolutely identical, but in terms of design there are significant differences between them.
The presence of automatic control in the gas heating system makes it possible to comfortably heat the room and rationally use energy resources. With a reasonable approach, savings can range from 30 to 43%
The cost of modules varies over a wide range. Simple mechanical products with a minimum of functions belong to the budget class and are sold at the lowest price. Advanced electronic panels are valued much higher, but provide the user with more extensive options for individual settings and control of work.
Some devices, such as SABC automation, in addition to basic functions, are equipped with a built-in pressure stabilizer. This allows for more precise adjustment of the operation of gas equipment
Programmable electronic devices are considered luxury. They enable the owner to set an operating plan for the equipment for a long period of time, taking into account seasonal weather conditions and the current outside air temperature.
No. 1 - automatic EUROSIT 630
Automatic non-volatile unit EUROSIT 630 produced by an Italian company Sit Group (Eurosit) In terms of sales, it occupies a leading position in the market.
It is considered universal and works effectively with parapets and power from 7 to 24 kW. Switching on/off, igniting the pilot burner and setting the desired temperature are carried out using one handle with a button.
The Eurosit 630 module is a modern unit for controlling gas equipment. Totally coincides international standards and safety requirements for such devices. Has a European quality certificate and a guarantee from the manufacturer
The product is characterized by a high level of reliability, can withstand significant operating loads and has extensive functionality. Structural elements“hiding” in the housing, to which sensor cables and other connecting tubes are routed.
The ignition time of the heating boiler using the Eurosit 630 automatic system is 10 seconds. Gas is immediately supplied to the system and very soon the room warms up to the set temperature
Inside the unit there is a cut-off valve, a spring valve and a pressure regulator. The gas supply is carried out from below or from the side according to the user’s wishes. In terms of cost, the unit is included in the budget category.
No. 2 - Honeywell 5474 module
The Honeywell 5474 device is manufactured by a German concern Honeywell, which has been specializing in the development and sale of various types automation. Works correctly with household power up to 32 kW.
Honeywell 5474 is a non-volatile device for controlling the heating system. Equipped with micro-flare burners made of heat-resistant of stainless steel. They provide better gas combustion and reduce emissions into the atmosphere. harmful substances and prevent excess soot from depositing in the chimney
Automatic Honeywell system 5474 equipped basic set control functions that guarantee efficient work boiler with absolute safety for users.
The product maintains the specified coolant temperature in automatic mode (from 40 to 90 degrees), turns off the boiler in the event of a fuel supply cutoff or lack of draft the required level in the chimney, occurrence reverse thrust or burner extinguishment.
No. 3 - premium automation from Honeywell
In addition to inexpensive budget models company Honeywell also produces other types of automatic equipment, for example, luxury chronothermostats of the premium ST series or programmed thermostats Honeywell YRLV430A1005/U.
The YRLV430A1005/U device, with the widest possible functionality, has a user-friendly interface and does not cause any difficulties for customers during use. The cost of the product is quite high, but still lower than that of competitors offering models with similar characteristics
These electronic panels allow you to set the most detailed and precise settings for heating equipment, up to changing the temperature several times a day depending on the time of day, weather conditions and personal wishes.
No. 4 - Orion device
Automatic device Orion manufactured in Russia. The device includes a piezoelectric ignition and a draft sensor.
The Orion device looks simple and has minimum set functions. Its capabilities are not too great, but, thanks to its reasonable price and basic control method, the unit is in demand
The device turns off the gas in case of random extinguishing of the burner or lack of the required draft. When the room temperature drops, the thermostat activates the fuel supply and the boiler resumes operation.
The transition to the flame reduction mode when a certain (user-specified) temperature is reached occurs automatically and allows you to save fuel resources.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
A detailed description of the operating principle of automation designed for a gas boiler. Interesting features and nuances of monitoring equipment:
How does the automation of a gas heating boiler work? A visual demonstration of the process of igniting a gas unit:
A detailed description of one of the most popular automation models designed for controlling and adjusting a gas boiler:
An automatically controlled gas heating system is a practical and cost-effective option for home heating equipment.
The mechanical controller is distinguished by its low price, reliability and simple control method. The electronic panel is more expensive, but has advanced functionality that allows you to create the most comfortable conditions in the room.
It is better to purchase mini-units in company stores that sell certified products that meet all the requirements for elements of gas-powered heating systems.
Do you know the intricacies of gas equipment automation that are not mentioned in the article? Did you have any questions while reading the material? Please write comments, share your own opinions and photographs on the topic of the article.
Gas heating boilers are high-risk devices. If used incorrectly or malfunctioning, they can cause poisoning. natural gas, combustion products, may cause a fire or even an explosion. That is why all processes taking place in boiler units must be carried out under constant control, for which the gas automatics for boilers.
Design and principle of operation
All components of automation used in heating systems can be divided into two large groups:
- Devices that ensure proper and safe operation of boiler equipment.
- Devices that increase comfort when using the boiler unit.
The safety automatics for gas boilers include:
In some models of boiler equipment, the manufacturer provides for the presence of an air exhaust device. All devices included in the automatic security system are non-volatile or mechanical. If there are actuators and a control controller, they can operate under electronic control.
Automation for comfort provides the owner of the installation with additional functionality: automatic ignition of the burner; functions of self-diagnosis and selection of the optimal operating mode, flame modulation, etc. This type of automation is optional and is not used in some models.
The operating principle of the electronic security system is based on receiving data from sensors, which are processed by a microprocessor-controlled controller. Based on the data received from sensors and sensors, the controller sends commands to the drives of the safety actuators.
We will consider the principle of operation of the mechanical automation of a gas boiler in more detail. The heating system is not working - the gas valve is closed. To start the boiler, the washer on the valve is squeezed out. This operation forcibly opens the valve, gas flows to the igniter. After the igniter is ignited, the thermocouple is heated. It generates enough voltage to operate an electromagnet that holds the gas valve open.
By turning the washer it is established required power boiler: gas with the required pressure enters the burner - ignition occurs from the igniter. After starting the boiler installation, the thermostat takes over control of the coolant temperature.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeK4dSo3B9Y Almost all boiler equipment safety systems work according to this principle, regardless of the brand. When choosing this system for a boiler, it is recommended to pay attention to equipment of the same brand as the boiler. For example, it is best to look for automation for BOSH gas boilers. trademark.
Functionality of the heating system safety system
All important processes that occur in the boiler unit are controlled by automation. Automation for gas heating boilers provides control over:
- Gas pressure. If it falls below the permissible value, the fuel supply to the burner is stopped. This happens automatically thanks to a valve mechanism adjusted to a specific fuel pressure. In volatile safety modules, gas pressure control is controlled by maximum and minimum pressure switches. These devices consist of a membrane with a rod. When the fuel pressure increases, the membrane bends and opens the power contacts of the boiler installation. When the pressure normalizes, the power contacts are set to the closed position.
- The presence of a flame in the burner. In the absence of a flame, the thermocouple cools down and stops producing the current necessary to operate the solenoid valve of the gas valve, which shuts off the fuel supply to the burner.
- The presence of draft in the smoke exhaust channel. When the thrust decreases, the bimetallic plate of the sensor heats up and changes its shape. The rod connecting the sensor plate to the valve takes it out of operation and the gas supply to the burner stops.
- The temperature of the coolant in the circuit. The thermostat is responsible for preventing overheating and maintaining the temperature of the coolant in the circuit.
Almost everything modern systems security are equipped with monitoring sensors and relays for the presence and pressure of coolant in the system. This type of automation is most often implemented in volatile systems. Any automation can fail due to poor quality, improper operation and maintenance. Next you can familiarize yourself with characteristic malfunctions boiler automation and methods for eliminating them independently. 
You should know that independent intervention in the structure gas installations prohibited by law. That is why we strongly recommend that if a malfunction occurs in your heating installation, you contact specialists who have a state certificate to carry out this work.
Stepping away from the topic, we would like to inform you that we have prepared comparative reviews on gas boilers. You can get acquainted with them at the following materials:
The most popular models of safety systems for boiler equipment
Today, on the Russian market climate control technology More than a dozen automation models from different brands are presented. The popularity of a particular brand depends entirely on demand heating installations same brand. Many owners of domestic boiler equipment ask how the automation works in a Lemax gas boiler? These installations use EvroSit automation from Italian manufacturer. It is this automation system that is in first place in popularity among domestic producers heating devices.
Models in this line have good functionality and are easily integrated into almost any boiler design. Standard functions: gas pressure control; monitoring the presence of flame in the burner and on the igniter; control of coolant temperature and chimney draft. Using the automation of this brand does not cause any particular difficulties for owners, but requires some skills.
- Before starting the device, you must press the adjustment and ignition knob and at the same time the piezoelectric element button.
- After igniting the igniter, it is necessary to hold the knob pressed for 5 to 10 seconds to heat the thermocouple.
- If, after releasing the handle, the igniter does not go out, then you can proceed to turning the washer to adjust the gas pressure. After this, the main burner is ignited.
Automation of this brand is quite widespread in the Russian market of climate control equipment due to its relatively low cost, good functionality and wide model range. Standard functionality: maintaining coolant temperature in the range from 40 to 90°C; control of pressure and fuel supply; automatic stop of the device in case of absence or occurrence; control over the presence of flame in the burner.
Rostov products today are in demand by domestic users on a par with European automation models due to their reliability and low cost. Automatic functionality AOGV systems also quite rich. The standard capabilities of this technology make it possible to stop the operation of the boiler unit if the following situations occur: the coolant temperature exceeds established level; failure of flame in the igniter and burner; low pressure and lack of coolant in the system; any failure in the gas supply system; decrease in fuel pressure below the established norm; in the absence or insufficient traction. How does the automation of a gas boiler AOGV work? The operation of the gas valve is controlled by the voltage generated by the thermocouple. It is this voltage that acts on the valve coil and keeps it open while the burner is burning. Temperature regulation occurs due to a thermostat and valves, which, when the temperature rises or falls, opens or shuts off the fuel supplied to the burner. The exhaust gas removal is monitored by a draft sensor. Do right choice automation for gas boilers is quite difficult. We strongly recommend seeking professional help.
Control of modern gas heating boilers is unthinkable without the use of automatic control systems. It is thanks to them, automatic systems, that owners of private houses have the opportunity to leave their gas boilers unattended, turn them on and off remotely and be sure that the devices are operating in the optimal, most efficient and economical mode.
It should be noted that automation for gas boilers first of all makes their operation safe, and secondly, convenient. It is unlikely that gas heating boilers would have become so widespread if there were no reliable automatic control systems.
Types of automatic systems for gas heating boilers
There are two types of automation for heating boilers:
- Volatile, operating when connected to the electrical network
- Non-volatile, operating without consuming electrical energy
Volatile automatic control systems vary depending on the set of functions they perform. The simplest of them ensure safe, uninterrupted operation of the device, while the most complex models automation systems allow you to heat the house in accordance with the selected operating modes, taking into account whole line parameters. This could be the ambient temperature, time of day, presence or absence of people in the house, and much more.
Non-volatile gas equipment is chosen for installation in houses with an unstable power supply or where there is no electricity at all.
How does non-volatile automation work?
Non-volatile automation controls the following parameters:
- Traction level.
- Coolant heating temperature
- Presence of flame
To control the draft level, a draft sensor is installed in the chimney. If the vacuum in the chimney is sufficient, the boiler works; if there is no draft, or the chimney is blown out by the wind, the gas supply to the gas burner is blocked and the combustion process stops completely. It should be noted that control over the draft level is especially important when operating any heating boiler, because it is the level of vacuum in the chimney that determines whether combustion products will be completely removed or not and whether they will not get inside the room, creating an emergency situation.
Therefore, without exception, all gas heating boilers are necessarily equipped with draft sensors.
The second important parameter is the heating temperature of the coolant. To control it, a thermocouple is used, which changes its size depending on the heating temperature of the coolant. If the water temperature in the boiler is below the nominal value, the thermocouple acts on the connecting valve, increasing the gas supply to the combustion zone.
If, on the contrary, the coolant temperature is too high, the thermocouple transmits a signal to reduce the gas supply to the combustion zone, thereby eliminating the possibility of overheating the water in the boiler and its boiling.
Another important aspect safe work gas boiler is the possibility of gas leakage from the combustion zone. To do this, the boiler is ignited in two stages. At the first stage, the igniter is ignited, providing heating of the thermocouple located in the combustion zone. Gas supply and ignition of the burner is possible only when the thermocouple is heated to a certain temperature.
If for some reason the flame goes out, the temperature of the thermocouple will drop, blocking the gas supply.
A simple example: the pressure in the gas pipeline dropped sharply, the burner went out, and after a few minutes the gas supply was resumed. If there were no protection system, a gas leak would occur.
Volatile automatic control system
The energy-dependent automatic control system allows you to solve all of the above tasks, as well as a whole range of additional tasks. Its main advantage is creating a higher level of comfort.
If a non-volatile system eliminates the possibility of overheating of the coolant and its boiling, then more “smart” energy-dependent automation allows you to control the heating temperature of the coolant with an accuracy of a degree, taking into account the ambient temperature, direction and strength of the wind.
In more complex automatic control systems, it is possible to set operating modes depending on the time of day and days of the week. With the help of automation, any possible emergency situations are excluded. For example, in double-circuit boilers heating systems, a protection system may be provided to prevent the coolant temperature from decreasing below the minimum permissible value when heating water for hot water supply.
Especially when it comes to boilers installed in areas where low temperatures Not unusual. The fact is that when heating hot water in a double-circuit boiler, heating of the coolant stops, which, with prolonged consumption of hot water, can cause overcooling of the heating system, up to its defrosting.
Monitor such situations and turn them off in a timely manner DHW heating Only an automatic control system can do it.
The list of capabilities of automatic control systems for gas boilers is large, and moreover, it is constantly updated with more and more new developments.
How to control the automation system
For driving volatile system For automatic control, a display installed on the boiler itself or a remote control panel remote from the device can be used. For example, the panel can be located in the living room, while the heating boiler itself can be located in a special utility room.
The operation of volatile automation for gas boilers is based on microprocessors; it is not surprising that today more and more effective management computers are used, and in the near future “smart” heating boilers will appear.
The problem of heating and water heating in country houses, to which are connected gas communications The easiest way to solve this is with a gas boiler, which takes central place in the heating system.
When organizing the latter in their home, consumers try to choose the simplest and most convenient boiler to use.
However, we must not forget that gas is highly flammable, explosive substance, which must be used with extreme caution.
Therefore, equipment developers equip heating boilers operating on gas with special automatic devices, which not only control its operation during operation, but also provide high level safety in case of emergency situations.
IN general case Boiler automation devices include:
- gas valves;
- various control sensors (heating, presence of gas, etc.);
- control units;
- security systems.
Goals and objectives of automation.
The efficiency and safety of operating a gas boiler depends on compliance with established operating modes over a long period of time. Moreover, its owner does not always have the opportunity to monitor the compliance of operating parameters with the established values.
In accordance with current regulatory documents automation equipment installed in gas heating boilers must cut off the gas supply in the following cases:
- insufficient draft in the chimney;
- lack of flame on the igniter;
- low or too high pressure gas
Boiler automation helps solve these problems. It is she who is able to ensure that all operational requirements are met, as well as inform the boiler owner about any irregularities in its operation. Currently, all gas boilers are required to be equipped with automatic systems management, which, largely determining their functionality, affect the operation of the heating system as a whole.
The main classification of automation devices for heating boilers involves dividing them into two types:
- Non-volatile - the operating principle of which is based on the use of mechanical devices.
- Energy-dependent - using complex electromechanical components and electronic devices in their work.
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION OF BOILERS EQUIPPED WITH NON-POWER-INDEPENDENT AUTOMATION
Starting a gas boiler equipped with non-volatile automation is carried out manually. When you press the button of the starting system, the washer that shuts off the gas supply to the boiler is squeezed out, the valve is forced to open and the gas is supplied to the igniter, where it is ignited using a piezoelectric element.
Ignition of the gas leads to rapid (up to 30 seconds) heating of the thermocouple, which begins to generate voltage that allows the electromagnet to hold the gas supply valve open. If for some reason the flame goes out, the thermocouple cools and the valve closes, blocking gas access to the burner.
The functionality of boilers with non-volatile automation is extremely limited and comes down to setting the required coolant temperature, which is done manually. For this purpose, a temperature scale is provided on the boiler control panel, according to which it is set working temperature coolant inside the boiler.
During operation, the set temperature is maintained using a special thermostat (thermostat), which opens or closes the gas supply valve as necessary.
The thermostat operates using a thermocouple built into the boiler heat exchanger. Moreover, it is equipped with a special rod made of invar (an alloy of 64% Fe + 36% Ni), which reacts to changes in temperature by changing the geometric dimensions of the part. With the help of this rod, which is rigidly connected to the gas supply valve, the flow of the latter into the burner is regulated.
In addition, boilers equipped with non-volatile automation are additionally equipped with special sensors, which, in the event of a drop in draft in the chimney or gas pressure in the main, will cut off the gas supply to the boiler.
The design of the draft sensor is based on a thin bimetallic plate, which in normal mode is in a bent state and holds the corresponding valve open. When the draft in the chimney decreases, the plate heats up, which causes a change in its geometric shape, and, as a result, the gas supply valve closes.
The gas pressure is controlled by a valve mechanism set to a certain value. If the pressure deviates significantly from the set value, the mechanism is triggered, cutting off the gas supply to the burner.
The advantages of boilers with non-volatile automation are:
- low cost;
- ease of control, accessible to people who, as they say, are not friendly with technology;
- autonomy of operation which does not require connection to the electrical network.
OPERATION OF BOILERS WITH ENERGY-DEPENDENT AUTOMATION
The operation of modern equipment equipped with a volatile boiler automation system is controlled as a result of analysis microprocessor unit control of data received from temperature, pressure sensors, etc. Almost all boiler control elements are mounted inside its body, so when installing the latter, it is enough to connect necessary pipelines and connect the boiler to the public power supply.
Unlike boilers with non-volatile automation, the use of complex electronic devices significantly expands their functionality. In addition to the ability to independently maintain a given coolant temperature, modern control and measuring devices automatically carry out:
- boiler start-up;
- control of the gas supply valve and burner power;
- turning off the boiler in emergency cases.
In addition, automated control units are equipped with special displays that display all necessary information about the operation of the boiler.
The latest models of gas boilers are able to control the concentration of combustion products and control the operation of the pump. These models are also equipped with a self-diagnosis system, which allows you to identify defects in individual system elements during operation.
Automated systems, thanks to the coordinated operation of electronic devices, ensure uninterrupted operation of the boiler in accordance with established operating modes. They also allow the use of special programmers, which allow you to set the temperature regime of the boiler for several days, taking into account the weather forecast.
REMOTE CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT
A gas boiler, which serves as a source of thermal energy for the heating system, is an equipment that operates continuously for a long time. Moreover, it can be considered as a set of devices designed to generate heat and automatic control this process.
When developing such boilers, developers set themselves the task of ensuring its stable operation with minimal user intervention. To do this, introduce into the design various sensors, control devices and actuators.
However, their presence does not exclude the need, and in some cases, the desire of the user, to further adjust the operation of the system at his own discretion. And what more complex system automation, the more opportunities it can provide.
As a rule, the main user and service settings necessary for the normal operation of the boiler are displayed on the main panel located on the boiler body. The consumer can change them at any time. However, the heater is not always located close to the user. For example, in country houses the boiler can be installed either in separate room, and outside the home. In this case, the question arises about remote heating control.
There are several options for implementing remote control.
Room regulators.
By using room regulators the most simple tasks- adjustment of coolant temperature. To do this, a corresponding sensor is built into the regulator body, which is connected to the boiler automation system. More complex devices can be used, equipped with electromechanical or electronic sensors and controls with their own autonomous power supply.
They are connected to the boiler automation via wires or via a radio channel. The disadvantage of these devices is the lack of feedback - you can transmit a command, but you cannot receive information about the state of the system.
Controllers remote control.
The remote control controller is a more complex device connected to the boiler control system via a bus through which coded signals are transmitted.
Using the controller, it is easy to organize not only the control of almost all functions, but also to provide feedback, displaying information about the system status and detected defects on the controller display.
The disadvantages of the system include the need to use control protocols, which make it quite difficult to coordinate heating equipment with the controller.
Telecommunication modules.
A telecommunications module equipped with a modem and a slot for a SIM card in the presence of an appropriate controller as part of the boiler automation makes it possible for the user to keep control of the entire heating system at almost any distance from it.
The telecommunication module is installed anywhere and communicates with the boiler via a bus. The exchange of information between the automation and the user is carried out using SMS messages via GSM communication channels.
Such an organization ensures that the user receives timely information about the state of the heating equipment and the impact on it using appropriate commands sent from mobile phone. The only requirement that must be ensured is the presence of a stable cellular signal.
IN Lately Telecommunication modules that provide communication with the user via the Internet have become widespread. In this case, the module connects to a running computer with Internet access, directly or through a router.
The signals are transmitted to a remote server, by connecting to which you can see in real time and adjust almost all parameters of the boiler equipment.
Messages about any malfunctions and defects are sent to the user by email. With the advent of the Android OS, the interface of which is similar to the interface of boiler control panels, it has become possible to control the heating system using smartphones, which has made remote control of the heating system even more convenient.
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