Thermostatic valves: description and operation principle

In heating systems today use special thermoregulating devices. They allow to automatically maintain the set in the room mode of heating the air. Thermostatic valves are used to reduce the temperature in the heating system. Such problems exist among residents of the upper flats of multi-storey buildings, as there is often a top coolant supply, and a vertical distribution.

In this article we will look at what this valve represents and how it works.

How this element works

The temperature regulator in the heating batteries is a cup-shaped body.

The device can be confused with an ordinary radiator valve, which is installed at the inlet and outlet of the battery. But instead of the traditional valve, a nut is used here. It is quick-detachable. With this nut, the head of the device is attached to the body.

Thermostatic valves are calibrated, with which you can set the desired mode of operation. A pipeline is connected to the body of the device from one side. On the other hand, there is a union nut and a conical sealing system. Next comes the external thread, which is screwed into the cap of the radiator.

Thermostatic valve 3/4 can easily be mounted on any radiators. The union nut allows you to mount the radiators of different types at any time. It is suitable for fast assembly / dismantling work. At the top of the case there is another nut. It helps to fix the head itself.

Principle of operation

Thermostatic valves basically represent a cylinder that is filled with a heat agent (this element of sanitary ware is called a bellows). As a thermal reagent, liquid or gases can be used. But anything for this does not work. The volume of the coolant must depend on the temperature. There are also devices with solid constituents. However, they are not popular because of the long reaction time.

During the heating process, the working substance begins to increase in volume, thereby stretching the cylinder. The latter starts to press 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, causing the working substance in the thermostatic head to cool down. During cooling, the volume of the substance decreases, and as a result, the elastic element raises the locking cone. The heat carrier will again flow into the radiator, and the head will be heated again.

Thus, thermostatic valves help accurately control the temperature with high accuracy (up to one degree Celsius).

Kinds of heads by design

Distinguish thermoregulating devices by type of construction. They are selected depending on the features of the pipeline of a particular heating system and the way of installation to the radiator.

It is necessary to take into account the peculiarity of the head installation. This node was always horizontal. In this position the device will be more effective. The head can be better washed by air currents.

On sale there are devices independent without radiator valves or together with them. The thermostatic valve Danfoss, for example, has exactly this layout. But the company produces completely different systems. Instead of a scale, a special circuit is placed on this product, through which you can fine-tune the adjustment.

But not always the use of such equipment is advisable. In this case, instead of automatic solutions, it is possible to use valves of a different type. The difference here is that the adjustment is not automatic, but in manual mode. Adjustable valves and thermal heads are installed on the supply line. On the return of the battery it is recommended to install a simpler fitting.

Types of elements

Thermal head is only called the upper removable part of the device. It can be manual, mechanical type and electronic. Most serious manufacturers of this kind of equipment make the valve body fully compatible with all types of thermocouples.

So, if there is a built-in thermostatic valve in the radiator, then a head of any type can be mounted on it. The most reliable is a mechanical part equipped with a thermostat.

Many manufacturers make several modifications of similar solutions. They differ in cost and technical characteristics. As for specific figures, manufacturers from Europe offer mechanical systems at a price of 15 to 25 euros.

There are also models that are protected from vandalism. Systems with remote sensors are offered. Such solutions are purchased and installed, if the current conditions do not allow for temperature adjustment at 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 thermoregulators are the same radiator control valves. The principle of operation here is the same. But it is necessary to rotate the handle manually to change the amount of fluid or gas passing through. The difference is that, if necessary, you can remove this element and replace it with electronic or mechanical. The price of these heads is up to 4 euros. A reliable choice in this category is the thermostatic valve Luxor.

Electronic solutions are the most expensive options. They differ and the most massive body. Among other things, manufacturers also provide space for battery power.

These instruments are very different from the first two types. More functionality is offered here. For example, in addition to the main function of keeping the temperature for a long time, it is possible to program heating by specific days or times.

Often after 9 am, all residents leave the apartment, but return only in the evening. And then keep the heat in the room is not necessary. Electronic systems allow lower temperatures on working days. 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 provide an opportunity to save significantly without compromising convenience.

Thermal head by type of substance

The working substance distinguishes between gas and liquid systems. Gas is more inertial. This means that their reaction is faster. However, there is no significant difference with the liquid device. There is no sense to overpay for gas.

The main thing is not the type of a concrete substance, but its quality. Liquid systems are not less quality, while they are easier to produce. They are offered in a wider range at an affordable price.

Products and brands

Today, there are many manufacturers who produce such solutions. There is a huge range of equipment for any cost and any requirements. Below we will consider the most popular brands.

Thermostatic valve Oventrop

This is a domestic manufacturer, which is engaged in the manufacture of various technical devices.

These include systems of warm floors, thermostats for heating systems and a host of other equipment. Many items from catalogs are produced in Germany.

Oventrop thermostatic valve is an inexpensive, but high-quality solution. Products are highly reliable and have positive user feedback. 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 represent the best quality, high reliability and range. This technique helps to save considerably.

Among the popular products is a thermostatic valve RA-N. It is designed for two-pipe systems, equipped with a built-in function for presetting bandwidth. The device is made in a durable cast bronze case and is as much as possible protected from corrosion.

Apparently, 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.