In heating systems today use special thermostatic devices. They allow you to automatically maintain the air heating mode set in the room. Thermostatic valves are used to lower the temperature in the heating system. Residents of the upper apartments of multi-storey buildings have such problems, since there most often the heat supply is upper and the wiring is vertical.
In our article we will consider what this valve is and how it works.
How is this element
The temperature controller in the heating batteries is a bowl-shaped housing.
The device can be confused with an ordinary radiator tap, which is installed at the entrance and exit of the battery. But instead of the traditional valve, a nut is used here. She quick-detachable, cap type. Using this nut, the device head is attached to the housing.
Thermostatic valves have a graduation, with which you can set the desired operating mode. On one side of the device is connected a pipeline. On the other hand, there is a union nut and conical sealing system. Next is the external thread, which is screwed into the plug of the radiator.
The 3/4 thermostatic valve can be easily mounted on any radiator. The union nut allows you to mount to different types of radiators at any time. It is suitable for quick assembly / disassembly. In the upper part of the instrument housing there is another nut. It helps to fix the head itself directly.
Principle of operation
Thermostatic valves are basically a cylinder that is filled with a heat agent (this element of plumbing is called a bellows). As a thermal reagent, liquid or gases can be used. But anything will not do for this. The volume of coolant must be temperature dependent. There are also devices with solid components. However, they are not popular because of the long reaction time.
During heating, the working substance begins to increase in volume, thereby stretching the cylinder. The latter begins to put pressure on the piston, which in turn drives the locking cone on the valve.
The cone completely or partially blocks the flow of the heat agent, which means that the working substance in the thermostatic head begins to cool. During cooling, the volume of the substance decreases, and as a result, the elastic element raises the locking cone. The coolant will again flow into the radiator, and the head will heat up again.
So, thermostatic valves help to accurately control the temperature with high accuracy (up to one degree Celsius).
Types of heads by design
There are thermal control devices by type of construction. They are selected depending on the characteristics of the pipeline of a particular heating system and the method of installation to the radiator.
It is necessary to take into account the peculiarity of the installation of the head. This node was always located horizontally. In this position, the device will be more efficient. The head will be better washed by air currents.
On sale there are independent devices without radiator valves or with them. The Danfoss thermostatic valve, for example, has just such an arrangement. But the company produces completely different systems. Instead of the scale on this product, a special scheme is applied, according to which it is possible to precisely configure.
But the use of such equipment is not always advisable. In this case, instead of automatic solutions, you can use valves of a different type. The difference here is that the adjustment is carried out not in automatic, but in manual mode. Adjustable valves and thermal heads are installed on the supply line. At the return exit from the battery, it is recommended to install simpler fittings.
Types of Elements
A thermal head is called only the upper removable part of the device. It can be manual, mechanical type and electronic. Most serious manufacturers of this type of equipment make the valve body fully compatible with all types of thermocouples.
So, if the radiator has a built-in thermostatic valve, then you can install any type of head on it. The most reliable is a mechanical part equipped with a thermostat.
Many manufacturers make several modifications of such solutions. They vary in cost and technical specifications. With regard to specific figures, manufacturers from Europe offer mechanical systems at prices ranging from 15 to 25 euros.
There are also models that are protected from vandalism. Remote sensor systems available. Such solutions are acquired and installed if the current conditions do not allow temperature control on the radiator itself. For example, a battery is installed behind a cabinet or chest of drawers. The cost of such models starts from 40 euros.
Manual thermostats are the same radiator control valves . The principle of operation is the same. But you must rotate the handle manually to change the amount of liquid or gas passing through. The difference is that if necessary, you can remove this element and replace it with an electronic or mechanical one. The price of such heads is up to 4 euros. A reliable choice in this category is the Luxor thermostatic valve.
Electronic solutions are the most expensive options. They differ in the most massive body. Among other things, manufacturers provide a place for batteries.
These devices are very different from the first two types. It offers more functionality. For example, in addition to the basic function of maintaining temperature for a long time, it is possible to program heating for specific days or times.
Often after 9 a.m. all the inhabitants of the apartment leave it, and return only in the evening. And then there is no need to maintain a high temperature in the room. Electronic systems allow you to set lower temperatures on weekdays. You can set even 6 degrees, and in the evening the system will again heat the air in the room to comfortable temperatures. After work, you will return to a warm and warm room. These solutions provide the opportunity to save significantly without harming convenience.
Thermal heads by substance type
According to the working substance, gas and liquid systems are distinguished. Gas are more inertial. This means that their reaction is faster. However, there is no significant difference with the liquid device. There is no sense in overpaying for gas.
The main thing is by no means the type of a specific substance, but its quality. Liquid systems are not less quality, but it is easier to produce. They are offered in a wider range at an affordable price.
Products & Brands
Today, there are many manufacturers who produce such solutions. There is a huge range of equipment at any cost and for any requirements. Below we will consider the most popular brands.
Oventrop Thermostatic Valve
This is a domestic manufacturer that manufactures various technical devices.
These include underfloor heating systems , thermostats for heating systems and a host of other equipment. Many catalog items are issued in Germany.
Oventrop thermostatic valve is an inexpensive, but high-quality solution. Products are highly reliable and have positive user reviews. Among the lineup there are many devices for different tasks.
Danfoss
This company is the inventor of the described equipment. For more than 60 years, the products of this manufacturer personify the best quality, high reliability and assortment. This technique helps to save a lot.
Among the popular products can be distinguished thermostatic valve RA-N. It is designed for two-pipe systems, equipped with a built-in function for pre-setting the bandwidth. The device is made in a durable cast bronze case and is protected from corrosion as much as possible.
As you can see, these solutions are a great option when you need to save on heating or when the apartment or house is very hot. These devices can make life more comfortable.