The control valve for heating needs to be repaired. Ball valve for heating: types, sizes, characteristics
In any heat supply system, there are many different nodes that directly perform a particular task. Perhaps the most important thing is assigned to taps for heating - they regulate the flow of water in the system. And even the heat that batteries give us can be reduced or enlarged by taps. Today, the building materials market has a fairly rich selection of control devices. But what you need to choose for your read in our guide.
Types of ball locking mechanisms
It turns out that not everything is so simple with cranes today. Due to the fact that ball locking mechanisms have gained immense popularity and their scope is very wide, this has created a demand. Well, since there is demand, there will naturally be supply. Therefore, today there are a lot of different modifications of such devices.
Here are the main types of such equipment:
- Flanged locking devices– area of application, as in living conditions, as well as in production. The peculiarity of the operation of such valves is that they are full bore. In other words, they can be completely open, or completely closed.
They don't have a middle ground. They are mainly installed on the pipeline. Due to the fact that these types of cranes work under high loads, they are durable, reliable and especially durable.
- Clutch locking mechanisms- it is precisely such structures that can be qualified as taps for heating. Due to the design of the fastening, namely the threaded connections at the edges, they received such a definition. This locking mechanism is used in plumbing systems, in heating systems and even gas supply regulation.
Hence the conclusion that not all locking mechanisms of this category can be used as ball valve for heating. When choosing, it is imperative to know the exact technical characteristics of a particular crane.
Taps for heating radiators
Very often, when installing a heating system for his home, a novice heating engineer is faced with the question of which taps are suitable for radiators. As a rule, there are no special divisions here, and in order to install a regulating device on a battery, a conventional ball locking mechanism is sufficient.
But do not forget that in order to release the air lock that forms after the system is filled with water, another element must be installed on the radiators. This is a needle faucet for heating, popularly called it Mayevsky crane.
The design of such a device differs from the usual one in that a needle fitting acts as a locking mechanism here. Thanks to this design, it has become an indispensable assistant in the removal air locks in the heat supply system. As a rule, it has a very small cross section and is not used to pass or block water.
Important! We would like to draw your attention to the fact that in addition to the Mayevsky tap for air removal, an additional air vent is used in the heating system. If you are mounting autonomous system do-it-yourself heat supply, remember that such an air outlet must be installed on the pipeline of the heating system. And, as a rule, at the highest point of the pipeline device. Thanks to such a device, air will be automatically removed from the system.
Some technical characteristics of such cranes
What you need to know first when choosing locking devices? Of course, this is the material from which a particular bolt mechanism is made. Due to the fact that such devices are constantly in contact with liquid, water, they must be made of a material that is not susceptible to corrosion.
Therefore, all taps for heating are made of brass and have a protective metal coating on top. But not infrequently retail you can find a fake, as a rule, these are silumin fakes.
Outwardly, this alloy is similar to brass, but in composition it is very brittle and highly susceptible to corrosion. Of course, its price is much lower than the brass locking mechanism, but after a year of operation, corrosion will simply eat this fake, and it can leak under pressure.
Important! We strongly recommend not to save on locking equipment. Cheap silumin alloy will rot, and this miracle of technology can fall off suddenly when you try to open or close the water. Thus, you can harm not only yourself, but also your neighbors. Be careful beware of fakes.
Here are the main technical data of the locking equipment:
- The material from which the faucet is made is brass.
- Scope - regulation of water supply, both hot and cold. For drinking and technical. Steam regulation. It is allowed to use for supplying, locking non-aggressive liquids.
- The operating temperature is one hundred and fifty degrees Celsius.
- Working pressure - 1.6 MPa.
If the ball valve for heating meets the above characteristics, be calm, it will serve you for a long and faithful service.
Quality is a guarantee of reliability
The heating system must be, first of all, safe. Since it works under pressure this security, and provide locking mechanisms.
The calculation of such a system must initially take into account emergency situations, and in the event of one, you must quickly and easily de-energize the emergency section or device. By planning everything correctly, you will, first of all, ensure your safety, but also of course those around you.
High-quality components - a guarantee of safety
All these conditions are taken into account by the manufacturer of locking mechanisms for domestic use. Therefore, today such taps are most suitable for use in plumbing, in systems autonomous heating. The installation instructions for heating systems strongly recommend the use of safe and high-quality equipment.
The advantages that they have over conical and cylindrical valves are simply undeniable. Just the simplicity of the design allowed them to take such a place of honor in the market of shutter mechanisms.
Inside the faucet is a simple spherical valve with a hole through which the liquid passes. A fitting is attached to the valve, which allows you to close and open the valve with a handle.
An important point is that such valves cannot be repaired. They are practically disposable. But on the other hand, heating taps are installed for a long time, and they must be of high quality, thereby ensuring the safety of the water supply system as much as possible.
Here are the main benefits from the manufacturer:
- The service life is up to fifty years, the equipment does not require repair, maintenance. No need to lubricate, disassemble.
- Increased tightness completely eliminates the appearance of leaks during the warranty period of operation.
- Independent installation location. Can be installed both horizontally and vertically. If conditions require, you can install diagonally. Opening or closing is carried out by turning the lever ninety degrees.
The heating system requires periodic maintenance. For this, shut-off valves are installed, including a ball valve for heating. What types exist, the principle of operation and reviews - we will consider all these issues in more detail.
Design features
For heating, it does not differ in the complexity of the design. Due to this, it has become widespread. Included stop valves includes:
As you can see, the ball valve for heating has a simple design. Over time, the rubber seal may need to be replaced. Removable composite models make this easy to do. Polypropylene brazed will have to be dismantled by a specialist.
Features of work
The ball valve for heating can only be used as a shut-off valve. Some are also used as a control device. But if you set the middle position, then the ball itself in the tap will eventually lose its surface smoothness, and this will significantly reduce its service life. It should be understood that the heating system implies not only shutoff valves, but also a bypass, an air vent. Only such a kit will ensure uninterrupted operation of heating.
Device advantages
The popularity of shutoff valves of such a plan was obtained due to the following advantages:
- The ability to completely block the flow of coolant. This allows you to repair radiators without completely turning off the heating.
- Ease of construction and installation.
- A wide range of.
- Low price.
- Reliability and durability. If high-quality equipment is bought and properly operated, then the service life of these devices is at least 10 years. The body is not subject to corrosion.
The disadvantages include the recommendation for use as control valves.
Classifications
According to the classifications, there are the following types of ball valves for heating:
Let's take a closer look at the last classification.
Types of ball valves for installation
Each model has its own device and connection features:
Each device has its own installation nuances. Therefore, you should carefully consider the selection of devices.
Marking
For heating systems they have a digital and letter designation:
- KSh - ball valve.
- Letter designations: M (coupling), F (flange), Sh (fitting), P (through).
- Letter designation: E (electric drive), Pn (pneumatic drive), if there is no designation - manual control.
- DN XXX - passage diameter. For example, DN 1 (1/2) in.
- PN XXX - working pressure.
- XX - characterizes the model in terms of resistance to the working and environment.
After reading the marking, you can easily choose the required option.
When buying, you should pay attention to the following indicators:
- Passage diameter. The peculiarity lies in the fact that on the cranes there is a designation of the internal size. If the parameter is 1 (1/2) inch, then a pipe with a passage of 40 mm or an outer diameter of 46 mm will fit it.
- Operating pressure. For heating systems, a parameter with a margin is always selected. Recommended value from 20 bar.
- Manufacturer. It is recommended to give preference to Russian or European manufacturers. Chinese production uses silumin for such devices, which is not reliable and resistant to aggressive environments.
- Body material. Brass products are considered the most reliable. They are recommended for heating systems. There are many fakes on the market, so you should request a product certificate. And also study appearance products. If it has sagging and other visible defects, this should alert.
- In the inner space, consider the locking ball. If it has a smooth mirror surface without defects, then this is a guarantee of a long service life.
- Price. Ball Valves for heating, the price of which is significantly lower than the average market price, most likely, will also turn out to be a poor-quality fake. Their cost starts from 500 rubles.
- Handle material. It is advisable to choose metal. Plastic is brittle and degrades over time.
- Check locking mechanism. It should open and close without much effort.
PPR pipes PN20/25
Today, many are trying to independently understand the device of engineering communications and carry out the installation of various systems with their own hands. The heating assembly technology is described in detail, and it is not difficult to find training material that will allow you to understand the algorithm of actions. But before assembling, it is necessary to solve one problem - to understand which one will allow you to assemble a reliable and efficient system. Let's designate the basic requirements for these elements and describe the pros and cons of the most popular products.
Existing Requirements
To understand which pipe for heating is better, you need to familiarize yourself with all existing materials and compare the list of their technical characteristics with the basic requirements for such products.
What should be considered when browsing the range?
- The temperature of the coolant operating inside a particular system. Usually, water heated to 80 degrees runs in central heating. Almost all pipes on the market can withstand this temperature.
- The quality of the coolant. Very often, to increase the heating efficiency, salt mixtures are added to the water, which increase the nominal temperature indicators. In some situations, there is a sharp increase in degrees. A plastic pipe for heating such water hammer may not withstand.
- Working pressure in the system. It can also be different. Typically in systems central heating pressure up to three atmospheres is maintained. However, it often jumps, sometimes increasing many times over. From negative consequences such surges primarily affect pipes and batteries, so experts advise choosing their more stable and reliable varieties.
- mechanical strength. This property is directly related to operating conditions. Pressure surges and a sharp increase in the temperature of the coolant are typical mainly for systems used for heating apartment buildings. To provoke such changes in the autonomous chain is possible only in the event of a gross violation of operational rules. Therefore, it is important to consider where and how tubular elements are used.
Pipe types
There are several options available to choose from. Today, a heating pipe is made of steel, polypropylene, metal-plastic or copper. Which one to choose? This question can only be answered by comparing the operational advantages and disadvantages of each variety.
Steel pipe
Used to assemble the system in apartment buildings. High-carbon alloys are used as the main raw materials, providing high mechanical strength. This option has several advantages:
Pipe connection
- Durability.
- Resistant to pressure surges.
- No thermal distortion.
- Affordable price.
Among the disadvantages is the possibility of development of corrosive processes. Steel is afraid of oxygen, therefore, if there is no water in the steel riser for a long time, rust begins to actively appear. This leads to leakage and rapid failure of the entire system.
Decreases over time and throughput steel outline. And all because salt deposits accumulate very quickly inside, which are formed due to the use of low-quality coolant.
Another disadvantage is the impossibility of self-assembly. It is possible to assemble a steel structure only using special equipment. Only those who have certain skills can work with it. No less important are threaded connections. All this complicates the installation and increases its final cost.
Polypropylene
Also suitable. Although its direct purpose is to create a cold water supply where it is necessary to achieve a supply of clean water. If it is required to use polypropylene for hot water supply, reinforced varieties are selected. The aluminum foil layer allows this material to deform when heated.
Polypropylene products
This choice has both positive and negative sides. The advantages include:
- High service life - polypropylene with proper operation can be used for 50 years.
- Such pipes are not subject to corrosion. In addition, they have smooth walls on which salt deposits are not deposited, so the throughput of the pipeline does not decrease over time.
- Water moves through propylene pipes almost silently, which cannot be said about steel risers.
- The main advantage of the described option is the ease and accessibility of installation. A special soldering iron allows you to connect the two elements. It and connecting fittings create a very reliable one-piece connection, which is almost impossible to destroy. Making a choice in favor propylene pipes, you minimize the risk of leaks. And this is the most important thing.
There are few disadvantages of polypropylene, but they still exist. Under the influence high temperatures polypropylene begins to melt, so experts do not recommend using it in fire hazardous areas. Will not withstand the material and powerful water hammer. Pressure above 7 atmospheres will lead to breaks in existing highways.
Top tip! Before the purchase polypropylene pipes for heating installation, carefully evaluate the quality of the reinforcing layer. It is better to give preference to products with fiberglass reinforcement.
metal-plastic
Pipe device
Enjoys the greatest popularity. And all because she has a number of valuable performance characteristics, which should be discussed in more detail.
Why is metal so good plastic pipes? The fact that they are not subject to corrosion and decay. These products are the best technical specifications- they are strong, durable and withstand internal pressure well. Pipes are produced in a convenient footage, so you can create a line with a minimum number of joints and ensure the necessary tightness of the system.
Metal-plastic is a very flexible material capable of acquiring a complex configuration. But such a pipeline can only be assembled using a special tool. And this is the only drawback of such products.
Copper
Selection of copper piping
Our review would be incomplete if we did not mention copper pipes. They are characterized by very high mechanical strength and good corrosion resistance. These two characteristics ensure the long-term use of the assembled line, its durability and reliability.
Copper pipe is also very flexible, so it is very easy to assemble plumbing with a minimum number of joints. The main thing during installation is to avoid contact between copper and alloy steel. These two components do not get along with each other, since their contact inevitably leads to the rapid development of corrosion processes.
If it were not for the main drawback of copper - its very high price, this type of pipe would be used everywhere. But high durability fully compensates for the negative aspects of this choice. Investing in a copper piping assembly is sure to pay off with long-term operation and system reliability.
Ball Valves
Installation of a heating system is impossible without the use of another important element - a ball valve. This locking device consists of two parts - movable and fixed. The movable part rotates around its axis and blocks the coolant flow, reducing its speed.
There are two types of ball valves on sale today - brass and steel. Which ones are better?
brass taps
Standard faucet
Brass ball valves for heating are best suited. And all because they have the largest operational resource. They are made of forged brass, which is completely safe for use in such systems. Their nominal pressure is 1.6 MPa, and the maximum allowable working temperature- 150 degrees.
During use, such a shutter does not require repair and Maintenance. If the brass faucet begins to leak, you only need to tighten the nut, which will press the seal ring, and the valve will again be in working condition.
The simple design of the valve ensures the highest possible tightness of the system, which prevents leakage and allows the valve to operate for a very long time. The brass faucet can be installed in any convenient position. Opening or closing occurs due to the rotation of the controlled lever by 90 degrees.
Note! It is the design of the handle that reduces the risk of injury. The handle also has an anti-corrosion brass coating. Therefore, over time, the appearance of the product will not change.
Steel cranes
The design of steel taps is different in that they do not have bolted connectors, which could cause leakage. Such products are made from the highest quality alloys. The main part - the valve body - consists of a solid spherical part and cylindrical nozzles. The spherical part is devoid of bolted connectors, has a minimum wall thickness and low weight. But, despite this, such a part is able to withstand the maximum possible pressure.
Let's outline the advantages of this option:
Water supply control
- Steel cranes do not require additional maintenance.
- They provide the highest closing speed of the coolant flow in the heating system.
- Opening and closing the shutter is quite simple.
- The product demonstrates high temperature stability.
- For today steel cranes have the best value for money.
- Steel ball valves can be installed on any pipes.
Generalization on the topic
We brought detailed overview range of parts that are used for installation heating system. It is made up of different elements. Most important component- reliable and safe pipeline. What is the best pipe for heating? Such a question is asked by any layman who dreams of independently assembling the system. In fact, everyone has to solve one dilemma - to choose plastic or metal.
Plastic is easy to install, environmentally friendly, looks aesthetically pleasing, but metal pipes have a higher heat transfer coefficient. They are able to operate at critical pressure and temperature of the coolant, providing security guarantees in case of unforeseen situations.
Corrugated pipe
Therefore, it is so important to pay attention to the rationality of the choice. The final verdict can only be made after a thorough analysis of the individual characteristics of the operation of the heating system. Of course, when comparing the two indicated options, it is important to take into account the durability of the material, its physical and mechanical properties, and the ease of installation of the pipeline.
If we take only these indicators, then plastic pipes will win. However, they are inferior to copper counterparts in the ability to work effectively in high-risk environments. And here everyone must determine for himself what is more important for him. Each listed species is attractive in its own way. But the last word will still remain with the consumer. It is he who will decide which pipe for heating suits him best. Another important element heating systems - a reliable shutter. Steel ball valves can be used with all listed pipes.