Buffer tank in a modern heating system

An integral part of modern heating systems of any buildings is a thermal battery. This device (tank or buffer tank) is designed to store and store the heat energy received from various sources and use it then as necessary in the systems of heat and water supply. In this case, the heat accumulator almost completely prevents heat loss and substantially reduces the resource consumption.

a brief description of

In fact, the buffer capacity of the heating system is a tremendous thermos in the form of a vertical steel tank - a cylinder with insulated walls. Its height, as a rule, is much larger than the diameter (3-5 times). Insulation with heat-resistant foam rubber reduces the loss of heat through the walls of the tank.

In the heating system, the thermal battery occupies a place between the heat circuit and the heating devices, so that the heated water enters first into the tank, and only then into the radiators and other heating appliances.

Advantages of buffer tanks

The heat accumulator (buffer capacity) makes it possible to efficiently use the energy of heat sources, which may be temporarily unavailable. For example, solid fuel boilers produce heat only during the burning of firewood or coal, the heat from solar systems can be used only on sunny days, the energy from an electric boiler or heat pump for saving is better to use at night at a reduced rate. While these sources are working, the heat comes in correctly, but what to do when the firewood is burnt or the sun hides behind the clouds? Here, in this case, the main advantage of buffer storage is manifested: accumulating excess heat energy during intensive operation of heat sources, the buffer capacity stores it for a fairly long time (up to 6 days) and, as necessary, consumes it for the needs of the consumer.

The thermal battery makes it possible to correctly and accurately reconcile the processes of generation and return of thermal energy in terms of power, time and temperature. In addition, the buffer tank protects the heating system from overheating of the boiler.

Principle of operation

The principle is really simple. The heat generator of any kind during operation gives its heat energy to the buffer capacity (by association with the battery, the charging process takes place). Then the heat is consumed by the heat supply system to maintain a comfortable temperature in the premises (the process of discharge).

The buffer tank is a necessary element of the combined heat supply system, it is possible to simultaneously connect high-temperature (gas boilers, solid fuel, electric) and low-temperature (power installations on the basis of heat pumps, solar collectors) heat sources.

Calculation of buffer capacity

Calculate the volume of the storage tank so that in the rooms there was a comfortable temperature with the possible minimum size of the tank, it is quite difficult, it is only possible for a specialist heating engineer. Practice shows that the smallest volume of capacity can be taken at the rate of 25 liters per 1 kW of boiler power (but not less), the optimal volume is twice as large.

The feasibility of using heat accumulators (buffer tanks) is proved by European experience both economically and in terms of safety and reducing the risk of overheating of the coolant. The only drawback is the large capacity and the need for additional space for its installation. Nevertheless, at the present time, the storage capacity is not just an advantageous option, but the most important element in combined heat supply systems.