Radiator valves: device and principle of operation
Control of the heating system is very important. This applies to both energy savings and safety of its operation. One of the devices that help to optimally adjust the heating equipment is a radiator control valve.
About him and will be discussed in this article.
General provisions
There are three devices that can limit or block the movement of the coolant through the radiator:
| Title | Features of operation |
| Ball valve | Works only on manual closing and opening of the channel. It should not be installed in intermediate positions, as this will lead to the appearance of deformations at the edges of the locking ball and, as a result, a decrease in sealing. |
| Cone crane | It allows you to manually change the flow rate, but gets a lot of wear in the event of a complete overlap of the system, losing tightness in that position. |
| Thermal valve | Automatically changes the intensity of the flow, depending on its temperature in one direction or another. |
Thus, if we really need valves for blocking the movement of water into the battery, then it is most efficient to install a simple ball valve. But, if constant monitoring and flow control is required, then it is certainly worth staying at the installation of a radiator valve, which will provide many advantages:
Merits
- Energy Saving. When the room is warm enough, the valve for the heating radiator cuts down the coolant flow, thereby significantly reducing the upcoming utility bill.
Tip: if the house has more than one floor, then first of all it is recommended to equip the highest points with thermostats. Indeed, as we all know from the school course of physics, heat rises, therefore, the valves there will bring the greatest benefit.
- Prevent accidents. If a critical temperature or pressure occurs in the system, the thermostat will completely block the movement of water until the situation normalizes.
Tip: after the full blockage of the fluid supply by the thermostat triggers, it is worth checking its condition and replacing it in the event of deformation. Otherwise, the next time the device may simply not work.
- Simple installation instructions. You can easily replace any stop valve with a thermal valve at any time without calling expensive professional plumbers.
- Attractive appearance, which does not spoil the overall interior of the room.
- Ease of operation. You just need to install the device, after which it will perform its functions automatically.
- Low price, which in comparison with the facilities provided does seem insignificant.
Construction features
The control valve for radiators has the following design:
Device and principle of operation
| Designation in the figure | Item Name |
| one | Fastener |
| 2 | Bellows |
| 3 | Handle for setting the temperature |
| four | Label limit |
| five | Temperature limiter |
| 6 | Spring settings |
| 7 | Heat sensitive fluid |
| eight | Stock |
| 9 | Return spring |
The principle of operation of such devices is very simple. In the event of an excessive increase in the ambient temperature, the temperature-sensitive fluid expands, pulling the bellows, which in turn moves the stem in contact with it in the valve, due to which the supply channel is narrowed.
The amount of coolant as a result is reduced, and the radiator is cooled, normalizing the microclimate in the room.
After the conditions are normalized, the whole process occurs in reverse order, increasing the heating of the equipment.
Variations
Radiator valve for connecting to the bottom or corner thermostat are the most common models.
But it is worth considering a couple of possible options:
- Internal spring, which, as the name implies, is hidden inside the battery. In the event of an increase in pressure in the system, the spring is compressed, and the spool closes the flow of coolant.
- Electronic thermostat.
This option is much more expensive than its mechanical counterparts, described above, but it has significantly enhanced functionality:
- First, it has a display showing the exact temperature in the battery.
- Secondly, its sensitivity is much higher, which allows it to respond to thermal changes much faster.
- Thirdly, such devices can be programmed. That is, you can, for example, set a lower temperature during your absence, which will lead to tangible savings.
Conclusion
Valves for radiators allow you to control the movement through their coolant channels. This saves energy used and confidence in the safe operation of the entire heating system.
The video in this article will introduce you to additional materials that are directly related to the information presented. Take care of the safe and economical operation of the heating system in your own home.