In heating systems today, special temperature control devices are used. They allow you to automatically maintain the mode of air heating 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 coolant supply is top, and the wiring is vertical.
In our article we will look at what this valve is and how it works.
How this element works
The temperature controller in radiators is a bowl-shaped body.
The device can be confused with an ordinary radiator faucet, which is installed at the inlet and outlet of the battery. But instead of a traditional valve, a nut is used here. She's quick-releasecap type. This nut secures the device head to the body.
Thermostatic valves have a graduation, with which you can set the required operating mode. A pipeline is connected to the body of the device on one side. On the other side there is a union nut and a conical sealing system. Next comes the external thread, which is screwed into the plug of the heating radiator.
The 3/4 thermostatic valve can be easily mounted on any radiator. The union nut allows mounting to different types of radiators at any time. It is suitable for quick assembly/dismantling work. There is another nut in the upper part of the body of the device. It helps to fix the head itself directly.
Working principle
Thermostatic valves basically represent a cylinder that is filled with a heat agent (this plumbing element is called a bellows). Liquid or gases can be used as a thermal reagent. But anything won't work for that. The volume of the coolant must depend on the temperature. There are also devices with solid components. However, they are not popular due to the long reaction time.
In the process of 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 shut-off cone on the valve.
The cone completely or partially blocks the flow of the heat agent, which is why the working substance in the thermostatic headstarts to cool down. In the process of cooling, the volume of the substance decreases, and as a result, the elastic element raises the shut-off cone. The coolant will again flow into the heating radiator, and the head will heat up again.
Thus, thermostatic valves help to accurately control the temperature with high accuracy (up to one degree Celsius).
Types of heads by design
Distinguish between thermostatic devices according to the 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 can 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 a scale, this product has a special diagram that allows you to accurately adjust.
But it is not always advisable to use such equipment. In this case, instead of automatic solutions, other types of gates can be used. 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. It is recommended to install simpler fittings on the return output from the battery.
Types of elements
Thermohead is called onlyupper replacement part of the device. It can be manual, mechanical type and electronic. Most major manufacturers of this kind of equipment make the valve body fully compatible with all types of thermocouples.
So, if the radiator has a built-in thermostatic valve, then any type of head can be installed on it. The most reliable is a mechanical part equipped with a thermostat.
Many manufacturers produce several modifications of such solutions. They differ in cost and technical characteristics. In terms of specific figures, manufacturers from Europe offer mechanical systems at prices ranging from 15 to 25 euros.
There are also vandal-proof models. Systems with remote sensors are offered. Such solutions are purchased and installed if the current conditions do not allow temperature control on the radiator itself. For example, the 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 here. But it is necessary to turn the knob by hand 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 mostexpensive options. They differ in the most massive body. Among other things, manufacturers also provide a place for batteries.
These devices are very different from the first two types. More functionality is offered here. For example, in addition to the basic function of maintaining the temperature for a long time, it is possible to program heating for specific days or times.
Often, after 9 am, all the residents 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 by the evening the system will again heat the air in the room to comfortable temperatures. After work, you will return to a warm and heated room. These solutions enable significant savings without sacrificing convenience.
Thermoheads 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 point in overpaying for gas.
The main thing is not the type of a particular substance, but its quality. Fluid systems are just as good quality and easier to manufacture. They are offered in a wider range at an affordable price.
Products and brands
Today there are many manufacturers who produce such solutions. There isa huge range of equipment for any cost and for any requirements. Below we will look at 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 produced in Germany.
The Oventrop thermostatic valve is an inexpensive but high quality solution. Products are highly reliable and have positive user reviews. Among the model range 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 represent the best quality, high reliability and range. This technique helps to save a lot.
Among the popular products, one can single out the thermostatic valve RA-N. Designed for two-pipe systems, it has a built-in function to preset the capacity. The device is made in a durable cast bronze case and is protected from corrosion to the maximum.
As you can see, these solutions are a great option when you need to save on heating or when it is very hot in an apartment or house. These devices can make life more comfortable.
