Today, there are many varieties of heating radiators, among which metal structures occupy a leading position. From a technical point of view, radiators are called hollow inside radiators, consisting of several sections. The design is filled with hot water and due to the thermal conductivity of the material, the cold air in the room is heated. In order for metal heating radiators to fully perform their functions, the design should be chosen correctly.
Basic principles of choice
The main parameter for choosing a metal heating radiator is compatibility with the heating system of the house. There are two types of systems:
- Open - for apartment buildings.
- Closed - for private buildings.
Compatibility with the type of heating system is determined by compliance with such parameters as:
- maximum working temperature of the heat carrier;
- material from which the radiator is made;
- system pressure
- heat transfer;
- internet.
These indicators are indicated in the technical specifications for any metal heating radiators. The central heating system requires a more careful selection of the radiator, since it must quietly withstand pressure and temperature drops, poor water quality. Inconsistency of technical specifications with requirements may cause an accident in the heating system or damage to the radiator itself.
Types of Radiators
According to the type of material, radiators are divided into the following varieties:
- aluminum;
- cast iron;
- steel;
- bimetallic.
At cost, heating equipment is divided into the following classes:
- Economy - standard inexpensive heating structures that are available for sale in any hardware store.
- Medium - metal heating radiators with improved properties.
- The highest class - devices made according to the personal requirements of the customer or having a unique design.
According to the type of design, the following types are distinguished:
The characteristics of metal radiators are the main criteria for choosing a design for use.
Aluminum radiators
Aluminum radiators can be divided into two varieties:
- Sectional models are the most popular. Sections are interconnected by means of threads and sealed gaskets. This design is attractive low cost and good heat dissipation. The disadvantages include susceptibility to corrosion of the inner surface and the need to install air bleed valves.
- Cast radiators are a one-piece construction that is cast from metal into a mold. They are characterized by increased durability and resistance to possible water hammer. They have a maximum service life of 20 years.
Aluminum heating radiators are popular for use in apartment buildings with an open type of heating system.
Steel Products
Steel radiators can also be divided into several varieties, which have their own characteristics:
- Panel metal heating radiators are a construction of two stamped parts with channels for water circulation. They differ in affordable cost and good heat dissipation. Users note easy installation due to the light weight of the structure.
- Heating radiators made of metal pipes are considered more durable and reliable than panel ones. Due to the connection of pipes by welding, this design withstands pressure and temperature differences, however, it has a greater cost and increased installation complexity.
Steel metal heating radiators are often used in private homes with individual heating systems.
Cast iron constructions
The appearance of classic cast-iron heating radiators is familiar to everyone, because they were installed in all the houses built in the USSR. They are distinguished by durability and are able to serve several decades.
Cast iron for the production of heating appliances is resistant to corrosion and poor water quality. It calmly tolerates temperature and pressure changes. The heat transfer level reaches 70%, the remaining 30% goes to convection and contribute to the heating of the lower zones of the heated room.
The disadvantages include a large weight, which greatly complicates installation, as well as a rough inner surface, which contributes to the gradual clogging of the structure and poor conductivity of the water. However, this drawback is eliminated by periodic flushing of the system with water under high pressure. The cost of such radiators is relatively low, and the service life reaches 50 years.
Bimetal radiators
This type of heating structures is considered the most optimal, although the most expensive. It combines the best properties of aluminum and tubular products. They are characterized by high thermal conductivity and an optimal service life of 25 years. Light weight contributes to ease of installation.
The design combines an aluminum frame and internal steel elements that are resistant to corrosion. Also, due to some features, bimetallic radiators are resistant to pressure, temperature and the presence of impurities and additives.
Heat transfer as the main criterion for choosing a radiator
The heat transfer characteristics affect the level and speed of heating the air in the room, so it is considered to be the main criterion for choosing a radiator for the home. This parameter depends on the material of which the radiator is made. The best characteristics are observed in copper and cast iron structures.
The choice of a heating product depends not only on heat transfer, but also on a combination of other parameters, such as:
- appearance;
- cost;
- compatibility of the pressure value of the heating system and radiator;
- type of heating system (one- or two-pipe);
- pressure test value;
- compatibility of the maximum allowable water temperature in the system and radiator;
- diameters of pipes and internal section.
For high-quality heating of the room, not only the heat transfer of the heating structure plays a role, but also the correspondence of its size to the area of the room. Large rooms require a large surface of the heating element.
The optimal radiator width should be at least 60% of the window size. At the same time, it should be located under the windowsill at a distance of 6 cm from the floor and 10 from the window.
Radiator decoration screen
A screen for metal heating radiators is used to decorate the latter under the general interior of the room. With it, you can not only add comfort to the house, but also hide the external defects of old cast-iron structures. In addition, it is often used to protect children from accidental touching a heated structure.
Screens are made of materials such as:
- A metal that has high thermal conductivity and does not interfere with the circulation of heated air in the room. In addition, it is durable, environmentally friendly and easy to install.
- Wooden have decorative qualities and are installed mainly to enhance the features of the decoration of the room. Often used to equip country houses.
- Thermoplastic is a relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain material. However, it is subject to aging under the influence of high temperatures and have a limited service life.
- Silicate glass is often used for decorative purposes, as there is a choice of colors, textures and other decorative elements.
Often screens do not have functional characteristics and are installed only as a decorative element.
Reviews of metal heating radiators indicate good quality characteristics of products, thanks to which there is a quick heating of the room and maintaining the desired temperature. Their choice depends on financial capabilities, personal wishes and design requirements.