Water temperature valve. Types of valves for heating systems, their purpose and functional features. Heating air valve

The thermostat is an important engine element. It is a mechanical valve whose main task is to regulate the coolant in the system.

It contributes to the normal operation of the car, preventing engine overheating and, accordingly, extending the life of the vehicle.

Structure and main functions

The thermostat is necessary to ensure that the engine warms up quickly before starting to operate, preventing fluid from moving through the cooling system until the engine reaches the required temperature. After this, the thermostat has a new task - maintaining a normal temperature level.

The operating principle of this valve is simple: it is based on the melting of wax, which is located in a small cylindrical hole towards the motor. Wax melts only at a temperature of at least 80 degrees Celsius.

At the same time, it is modified, becomes wider and helps to squeeze the locking pin out of the cylinder. The result of this process is the unlocking of the thermostat, as well as the launch of the cooling system while the vehicle is running.

The components of the thermostat are:

• inlet and outlet pipes - the first is connected to the engine cooling system, the second to the pump;
• a bypass valve, which at the moment of need closes the smaller cooling circle;
• springs for the bypass and main valves - their purpose is to hold the valves;
• inlet pipe that connects to the radiator;
• wax ball;
• piston;
• frame;
• the main valve, which is necessary to block the main movement of liquid.

When the engine warms up, rotation through the cooling system does not completely stop. The liquid moves around a small circle, where it passes through the pump, cooling jacket and furnace radiator. This way the system does not stagnate. When the main valve opens, the small circle is no longer accessible to liquid.

A thermostat essentially consists of several main parts: a cylinder, a wax and a pin, as well as elements of less important importance. This scheme is considered simple, but at the same time reliable. Therefore, it has not been modified for quite a long time and is used even in new versions of vehicles.

They differ from each other depending on the car model. They can be adjusted to different opening temperatures. It is mainly indicated on the body of the device. Different cars may have built-in housing thermostats, as well as those that do not have one.

But this is not the main difference. The main thing is where exactly the thermostat will be installed: either in the motor block or in a separate housing, which consists of complex two-level circuits.

Reasons for possible breakdown

Like anyone technical element, the thermostat may break. The most common reason is the lack of fluid circulation through the cooling system. If it stops moving around the motor, it overheats.

There is another popular reason. This is corrosion that damages the surface of the cylinder and the locking pin. Because of this, the fluid flow does not stop and the thermostat is damaged. Corrosion can occur after several years of operation of the thermostat, so it should be replaced as a preventive measure.

Advice! Considering that the engine is one of the most expensive parts, it is recommended to change the thermostat every two years.

In this case, you can avoid overheating of the motor and its breakdown. Also, with a new thermostat, it will function much better, and the engine heating process will occur faster. Replacing this element will ensure normal operation of the car and help its owner avoid major engine repairs due to temperature changes.

How to determine the functionality of a thermostat?

To understand whether the thermostat is working or not, it is not necessary to know where it is located. It is enough to warm up the engine a little, but do not bring the heating to the red mark. After this, you can turn off the car and open the hood. It is important to find two radiator hoses near the engine.

By touching them you can understand exactly how the thermostat functions. If the top hose remains hot while the bottom hose never warms up, this indicates that the valve has not opened. This means the thermostat is faulty. Don't think that it's cheaper to repair it.

This part is inexpensive, so for most car models it is easier to replace than to repair. Several criteria for thermostat damage:

1. The functional temperature of the motor takes a long time to rise to normal levels.
2. The engine gets hot too quickly.
3. The engine temperature arrow drops during a trip and rises after braking.

Attention should also be paid to the pipe. He talks about thermostat problems. If it becomes warm within a few minutes after the engine starts running, this indicates that the valve is open.

When the pipe remains cold while all other devices are at high temperature, while the engine is operating long time, this may indicate that the valve is closed and the coolant is not moving through the engine.

But we can assume that the radiator fan indicator may have broken. These signs may indicate mechanical damage to the element, as well as the use of low-quality fluid.

Remember! Due to incorrect temperature when operating a car, the engine suffers greatly, which leads to faster wear.

You can also analyze the operation of the thermostat using boiled water. Since the shell indicates an acceptable temperature for its normal functioning, it can be lowered into a container with heated water, where a thermometer is also located.

Thanks to this, you can see how this element functions. Based on the readings of the thermometer, you can determine the serviceability of the part.

Among the huge variety of shut-off valves that are used on the heating system, there is a rather rarely used element - a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat. It is similar in shape to a tee, but it is designed for completely different functions. How a three-way valve with a servo drive works and why it is needed will be discussed in this article.

Operating principle of three-way valve

A three-way mixing valve is installed in those sections of the pipeline where it is necessary to divide the main coolant flow into 2 circuits:

• with variable hydraulic mode;
• with constant.

Often constant flow necessary for those who are supplied with high quality coolant and in specified volumes. Its adjustment corresponds to quality indicators. Regarding the variable flow, it is used for objects where quality indicators are not key. Here the quantity coefficient indicator plays an important role. In other words, the supply of warm fluid in this case is carried out according to the required quantity.

Pay attention! One of the elements of shut-off valves is an analogue of the device that we are talking about in this article, which is called a two-way valve. What makes it different? It differs from the three-way one in the principle of its operation. The fact is that one of the elements of its design, the rod, cannot block the flow of liquid, which has constant hydraulic parameters.

The rod is constantly open, it is adjusted to a certain volume of liquid. Based on this, users have the opportunity to obtain the required volume, both in terms of quantity and quality. In general, this device cannot stop the flow of fluid for a network with a constant hydraulic flow. But it is capable of blocking a variable flow, which makes it possible to regulate the pressure/flow.

You can create one three-way valve by connecting a pair of two-way valves. But they must work in reverse mode, that is, when one opens, the other must close.

A three-way valve for underfloor heating or other purposes operates with the following sequence:

• hot water flows to the collector, which is one of the elements of the heated floor;
• the degree of heating of the liquid is determined as it passes through the thermomixing valve;
• in the case when the temperature exceeds the set level, a passage opens from where the cooled liquid flows;
• both streams mix internally;
• after the temperature drops to the set limit, the passage for cold water closes.

The disadvantages of three-way valves include the likelihood of sudden temperature changes that can occur when heated water is started, which can have a negative impact on the condition of the pipeline during mixing.

The three-way thermostatic mixing valve is used to:

• if necessary, redirect flows from different pipelines;
• mix flows of diametrically different temperatures to obtain a flow of a set temperature;
• dynamically control the direction of flows to obtain a flow with a constantly set temperature;
• in a plumbing system, this is obtaining a flow with a given stable temperature;
• in a heating system, this means obtaining a separate mixing unit with a consistently constant circulation temperature.

Using regular ball valve can be adjusted manually. In appearance, it is similar to a regular valve, but has such a feature as an additional output. This type of valve is used for forced manual control.

For automatic adjustment, a special three-way valve is used, which is equipped with an electromechanical device to change the position of the rod. It must be connected to a thermostat in order to be able to regulate the temperature in the room.

Types of valves for heating

Without further introduction, let's say that the device comes in two types, which differ in the principle of operation. It happens:

• dividing;
• mixing.

The principle of operation of the device is clear from its name. The design of the mixing device has two outputs and inputs. This is necessary in order to mix different flows of liquid to reduce its temperature. By the way, this is the best option for setting the required mode for a “warm floor”.

The process of adjusting the temperature is quite simple. You only need to know what the current temperature of the incoming liquid streams is in order to accurately calculate the required proportions of each stream in such a way as to obtain the required output indicators. By the way, if installed correctly, this control device can also work to separate the flow.

A dividing valve divides one flow into two, so it has one inlet and two outlets. This device is used mainly for separating the hot flow in domestic hot water systems. Although quite often it can be found in the piping of air heaters.

In appearance, both options are quite similar to each other. But when examining the drawing, where the devices are shown in section, you can see the main differences. In the mixing device, the stem has one ball valve. It is located in the center and blocks the main passage.

The rod of the separating devices is equipped with two such valves installed at the outlets. They work as follows: one of them is pressed against the saddle, closing the passage, while the other opens the second passage.

The control method of modern models is:

• manual;
• electric.

The most commonly used device is a manual control method; in appearance it is similar to a ball valve, but has three outlet pipes. But models with electrical control have automatic control, which is used mainly in private homes. Its job is to distribute heat. For example, the user can adjust the temperature regime in the rooms, and the coolant will flow according to how far the room is from the heating device. As an option, you can attach it to a warm floor.

Three-way valves, like other devices, are divided according to the pressure in the system and the diameter of the inlet. All this is determined by the regulatory acts of GOST. And if these requirements are not met, this can be regarded as a gross violation, especially in cases where it concerns the pressure indicator inside the line.

Where is this device used?

The three-way valve, whose operating principle was discussed earlier, is used quite widely. For example, such varieties as electromagnetic device or a device with a thermal head, can easily be found in modern pipelines, where proportions need to be adjusted when mixing two separated liquid streams, but the volume or power should not be reduced.

In everyday life, the most popular is the thermostatic mixing device, which, as mentioned earlier, helps regulate the temperature of the coolant. It can be supplied both to the underfloor heating pipeline and to heating radiators. And if the valve is equipped with automatic control, then temperature control will be carried out without any problems.

Pay attention! Using a three-pass heating system to balance temperature changes is beneficial not only in terms of creating convenience and comfortable conditions, but also saves your money.

The bottom line is that by regulating the temperature of the coolant at the “return” of the heating device, you can quite significantly reduce the volume of fuel consumed, and in addition, the efficiency of the system itself will increase. On some systems, installing a valve is simply necessary. For example, in a “warm floor” system, this device prevents the floor covering from overheating higher than necessary for comfortable conditions, thereby relieving users of unpleasant sensations.

Regulating devices of this kind are also used in water supply systems in order to obtain a permanent flow at the desired temperature. The most common example is a regular faucet, which allows you to regulate the water temperature by opening and closing valves.

Selection criteria when purchasing

You need to remember that when purchasing, be sure to pay attention to technical specifications devices, which include the following:

1. Diameter of connection to the heating main. Most often, this parameter ranges from 2 to 4 centimeters, although most of it depends on the characteristics of the system. If you cannot find a device of the required diameter, then you need to use a special adapter.
2. Possibility of mounting a servo drive on the device to ensure it automatic operation. This is especially important when the valve is planned to be installed on a warm water floor system.
3. Finally, there is the pipeline capacity. This concept refers to the volume of liquid that can pass through it in a certain time.

There are many manufacturers of three-way valves on the domestic market. The choice of one model or another depends, first of all, on:

• type of mechanism (and let us remember, it can be mechanical or electrical);
• areas of use (DHW, cold water, “warm floor”, heating).

The most popular device is rightfully considered Esbe - a Swedish valve from a company that has existed for more than a hundred years. This is a reliable, high-quality and durable product that has proven itself in many areas. A combination of European quality and modern technology.

Another popular model is the American Honeywell - a true brainchild of high technology. Simple operation, convenience and comfort, compactness and reliability - these are the distinctive features of these valves.

Finally, relatively “young” but promising devices are valves from the Valtec line - the result of joint cooperation between engineers from Italy and Russia. All products are of high quality and are sold with a seven-year warranty. They differ in that they have a very affordable price.

DIY valve installation

We present to your attention several schemes for installing a mixing valve.

A scheme that is used mainly in boiler rooms of heating systems that are connected to a hydraulic separator or to a free-flow collector. The pump, which is located in the second circuit, ensures the necessary circulation of the coolant.

Attention! In the case when the valve is planned to be directly connected to the coolant source on the bypass, which is connected to port B, then it will be necessary to install a valve with hydraulic resistance, which will be equivalent to the same resistance of this source.

If this is not done, then the coolant consumption will be segment A-B will fluctuate depending on the movement of the rod. It is worth noting that this installation scheme provides for possible interruption of coolant circulation through the source if installation is done without circulation pump or hydraulic separator in the main circuit.

If the return overheats, it is allowed to get rid of excess pressure using a jumper, which is mounted parallel to the valve mixture in the circuit.

Carrying out quantitative adjustment by changing fluid flow rates is the main function performed by this three-way thermal valve. It is used where it is possible to bypass liquid to the “return”, but stopping circulation, on the contrary, is extremely undesirable. We also present a diagram for installing a three-way separating valve:

Important! A similar connection scheme has become quite popular in water and air heating units connected from individual boiler houses.

In order to link hydraulic circuits, it is necessary that the consumer's pressure losses be equal to the losses on the valve - balancer in the bypass. The diagram shown here should be used for installation on those pipelines in which there is excessive pressure. The movement of liquid is carried out due to strong pressure, which is formed using a circulation pump.

Simplified mixing elements with temperature lock

An autonomous three-way valve of a simplified type can be installed in simple heating systems of country houses, where heat is obtained from a TT boiler. To function, it does not require a thermal head with a temperature sensor, and there is no rod there.

The thermostatic element, which is installed inside the housing, is adjusted to a certain temperature of the coolant at the outlet, for example. 50 or 60 °C (must be marked on the body).

The mixing valve of this sample always maintains the set temperature of the coolant at the outlet; this setting does not change. This gives rise to positive and negative aspects when using such fittings:

• advantage - cheaper, unlike a unit with a thermal head. The difference is about 30%;
• disadvantage - there is no possibility of adjusting the heating of the exiting coolant. If the factory settings are set to 55°C, then it will constantly supply water at this temperature ±2°C;
• Before purchasing a valve of a simplified design, carefully study the documentation for the solid fuel boiler; it usually indicates the minimum return temperature.

A thermostatic three-way valve is a rather useful thing in the heating system of a private home, which makes it possible to efficiently use the heated liquid, and thereby save fuel. Moreover, this part allows you to increase the service life of solid fuel boilers, and also plays the role of a safety element. On the other hand, you shouldn’t sculpt a valve just anywhere; it’s always better to consult a specialist who is well versed in this.

The heating system often includes control mechanisms and mechanisms that ensure safe operation. They are otherwise called heating system valves. With the help of these adjustment elements, the heat supply parameters change; they also ensure stable operation and perform automatic adjustment. Let's look at the valves and regulators of the heating system, since their purposes and functions differ.

Typically, boiler automation cannot meet the need for water at different temperatures for several circuits of the heating system. A three-way thermostatic mixing valve of the heating system comes to the rescue, which maintains the necessary thermal parameters of the coolant in the circuits of the heating system, as well as in the small circuit of the system.
The valve looks like a simple tee, the metal is bronze or brass. An adjusting washer is installed at the top of this tee, under which there is material sensitive to temperature changes. And if necessary, it presses on the working rod coming out of the body. The main task of the valve is based on maintaining the temperature of the coolant at the outlet within specified limits by adding cold or hot water. During unsuitable temperature changes, the external valve actuator presses on the stem. Next, the cone leaves the saddle and a passage opens between all channels. During operation, the three-way valve is controlled according to temperature by an external actuator.

Heating check valve

In a complex heating system there is quite large number auxiliary elements whose task is to ensure reliability and uninterrupted operation. One of these elements is the heating system check valve. A check valve is installed to prevent flow in the opposite direction.. Its elements have very high hydraulic resistance. Due to this circumstance, there are restrictions on the use of check valves in the system. There is too little pressure in such a system. At minimum pressure, it is necessary to install gravity valves with a butterfly valve; some of them can operate at a pressure of 0.001 bar. Main part check valve is a spring used in almost all models. It is the spring that closes the shutter when normal parameters change. This is the principle of operation of a check valve.

It is necessary to take into account the operating parameters in a particular heating system. Therefore, select a heating system valve that has the required spring elasticity.
Shut-off valves used in heating systems are usually made of the following materials: steel; brass; stainless steel; gray cast iron.
Check valves are divided into the following types: disc valves; petal; ball; bivalve. These types of valves are distinguished by a locking device.

Heating control (shut-off and control) valves

Regulating and shut-off-regulating heating valves systematically change the flow of coolant, from maximum to minimum, with the valve open and closed. Shut-off or shut-off valves control the coolant discretely when the valve is in the fully open or fully closed position. A control valve consists of three main blocks: the body, the throttle assembly, and the valve actuator. The closing and regulating element of the valve is the throttle assembly. When choosing a sleeve, seat, or plunger, you should pay attention to the operating conditions of the valve. The medium and its temperature, the presence of impurities, and throughput are taken into account. The main and important importance in the operation of the valve is the correct direction of supply of the working medium. It is usually marked with an arrow on the working surface of the case.

Thermostatic valve

In modern realities, a thermostatic valve is a prerequisite for modern and reliable equipment in a heating system. The valve temperature is automatically adjusted. The operation of the heating system mixing valve for radiators is to limit the flow level to a separate one. The valve stem makes movements to open and close the hole. Through this hole, coolant enters the radiator. When the valve with a thermostatic head heats up, the inlet opening is closed, as a result of which the coolant flow rate decreases. The thermostatic valve constantly changes its position. And an important factor is the quality of the materials on which this product is made. The product may fail due to sticking of the rod, as well as significant corrosion and breakthrough of sealing materials. But even if the thermostatic valve fails, you can extend its service life by replacing the thermostatic element.

Heating system valves with thermal heads differ depending on the shape and type of supply to the heating system. They can be angular when connected to radiators from the floor, or they can be straight, which connect the pipes to the battery relative to the wall surface. Axial, mainly when connecting pipes from the wall to the battery. When connecting batteries sideways, a special kit is required. It uses thermostatic heads and valves. Batteries that come with a bottom connection are obviously equipped with valve-type inserts.

Pressure regulator

The operation of the batteries and the pump is disrupted due to high or low pressure levels. Correct control of the heating system will help to avoid this negative factor. The pressure in the system plays a significant role, it ensures that water gets into the pipes and radiators. Heat loss will be reduced if the pressure is standard and maintained. This is where water pressure regulators come to the rescue. Their mission is primarily to protect the system from too much pressure. The operating principle of this device is based on the fact that the heating system valve located in the regulator works as a force equalizer. Depending on the type of pressure, regulators are classified into: statistical, dynamic. It is necessary to select a pressure regulator based on throughput. This is the ability to pass the required volume of coolant, in the presence of the required constant pressure drop.

Heating bypass valve

To reset the working medium, use the bypass valve of the heating system thermostat, which operates in the return direction when the pressure increases significantly. As a rule, the pressure increases due to the achievement of the maximum temperature set manually, the supply of coolant to the radiator decreases, as a result of which the pressure increases. Heating system bypass valves are basically designed to ensure a stable difference between the return and supply pipes. When the heat load decreases, the thermostatic valves close, resulting in a pressure difference between the pipelines. As a result of using a bypass valve, the load on the pump is reduced, the return temperature increases, and the boiler is protected from corrosion. The scope of application of the heating system bypass valve is quite wide; it is also used to prevent noise generation in thermostats. Bypass valves are installed not only on an unregulated pump, but also on riser jumpers.

Safety valves

Any source of danger is. Boilers are considered explosive because they have a water jacket, i.e. pressure vessel. One of the most reliable and widespread safety devices that reduces danger to a minimum is safety valve heating systems. The installation of this device is due to the protection of heating systems from excess pressure. Often this pressure occurs as a result of boiling water in the boiler. The safety valve is installed on the supply pipe, as close to the boiler as possible. The valve has a fairly simple design. Body made of brass good quality. The main working element of the valve is the spring. The spring, in turn, acts on the membrane, which closes the passage to the outside. The membrane is made of polymer materials, the spring is made of steel. When choosing a safety valve, it should be taken into account that full opening occurs when the pressure in the heating system increases above the value by 10%, and full closure occurs when the pressure drops below the response value by 20%. Due to these characteristics, it is necessary to select a valve with a response pressure higher than 20-30% of the actual one.

Balancing valve

The balancing valve of the heating system is designed to regulate the coolant passing through. Liquid consumption depends on pressure. The higher the pressure, the more fluid is consumed. This device is installed on risers. A balanced system ensures continuous operation. The manual valve is used as a diaphragm, and the automatic valve maintains pressure and consumption in the risers. A manual balancing valve can shut off the system. The design is a valve type device. Manual valves can be installed in conjunction with shut-off valves.

Flow regulator

Having installed energy metering devices, the question naturally arises of how you can regulate and control the supply of coolant, limit or add its flow. For this purpose, there are all kinds of automatic regulators, the use of which allows you to save money; they work from outside air temperature sensors and return pipeline sensors. Another advantage of temperature controllers is that they control the temperature directly at the radiator installation site, unlike other devices. This advantage gives priority in obtaining a uniform temperature background for a comfortable stay in the room. The regulator will prevent overheating of the air in the room, which sensors on centralized automation cannot always track. It is possible to adjust the temperature for each room separately. Sometimes, when solving the adjustment issue, ordinary taps are installed. Of course, this solution reduces financial costs, but deprives a number of useful advantages. The faucet has limited functionality to open and close. There is a danger of stopping or airing the riser. By adjusting the heating using taps it is impossible to achieve the required temperature. Using automatic regulators, you can adjust the system accurately and efficiently.

Modern heating consists not only of boiler equipment, pipe lines and batteries. It consists of elements that can be called by a general definition - shut-off and control valves. This is an integral part of the system. Each of them is important for changing the temperature regime of the coolant. Special role plays a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat. Connection diagram can be done in different ways, but the principle of operation is the same: regulation or mixing of the coolant.

Read in the article:

Why is it necessary to regulate heat flow in a heating system?

When drawing up a home heating project, it is necessary to perform a heat calculation, thanks to which the optimal equipment performance, mains power and thermal balance in the entire house are selected. During operation, the mode may change due to many reasons:

• change in outside temperature;
• solar activity;
• gusts of wind;
• thermal radiation from household appliances.

As a result, there is a violation of the calculated temperature balance. But you cannot remove or plug individual sections of heating batteries. To eliminate this situation, it is necessary to install additional elements with the help of which the temperature of the coolant is regulated.

The advantages of a three-way mixing valve include:

• simple installation;
• long service life;
• functional features;
• practicality;
• the ability to independently change the temperature of the liquid.

Among the negative aspects, it is necessary to highlight: high cost and inability to operate with contaminated flows

Purpose of a three-way valve for heating with a thermostat: areas of application

A three-way valve with a thermal head is the main element of shut-off valves for the heating main. Based on its operating principle, it is designed to mix or separate coolant flows:

• separation fittings– used to distribute liquid in several directions simultaneously. The tap is included in the water intake systems of an individual home or industrial enterprise;
• mixing fittings is aimed at mixing liquids in order to organize effective thermoregulation. The faucet has 2 holes for incoming flows and 1 for outgoing flows.

The main purpose of the product is to ensure continuous circulation of liquid throughout the heating line to maintain the same comfortable temperature of the coolant and ensure uniform heating of the room.

Heat flow adjustment limit

It is important to know that the operating principle of the unit allows you to regulate the battery operation within certain limits. Limit standards depend on the technical parameters of the products. Each radiator has its own maximum heat output. You can clarify this in the manufacturer’s installation passport.

The design and principle of operation of a three-way valve in a heating system

Externally, the knot resembles a tee. It contains:

• 2 inlet pipe sections (pipe);
• 1 outlet pipe.

The operating principle of a three-way valve is to distribute, switch, and mix the coolant. With its help, you can regulate which of the two streams will go to the output, and in what proportion they will be mixed.

The crane structure consists of the following parts:

• brass (or stainless steel, or polymer) body;
• ball locking unit with through perforation on the walls;
• 2 Teflon rings (saddles) are used to secure the shutter; some models do not have them;
• butterfly handle;
• the spindle is necessary to connect the shut-off valve and the drive. It transmits torque to the bolt;
• sealing parts to ensure the tightness of the unit.

The shutter can be installed in the following modes:

• complete shutdown of the coolant supply;
• mixing liquid;
• division of the coolant flow between two outlets;
• redirection of flow.

Three-way valve for heating with thermostat: diagram and main functions

Despite the external similarity with a tee, the valve performs completely different functions. The unit, supplemented by a thermal head, is the main element of the shut-off valves.

Maintaining a comfortable temperature

To maintain a comfortable air temperature, you need to control the heating. This can be done in two ways. In any case, manipulations with coolant flows are necessary. Thermal mixing valves are recommended for installation in houses with heated floors

Qualitative change in the properties of radiators

To regulate the quality of the coolant, the heat generator must be switched to a lighter operating mode (cold flow is supplied to the batteries).

Quantitative heat flow control

If it is impossible to change the temperature of the coolant in any way, you should regulate the amount of liquid using a three-way control valve. Fewer flows will pass through the pipeline, therefore, the air temperature in the room will decrease.

Such a device is a three-way valve with a thermostat. With its help, you can limit (increase) the amount of liquid that passes through the heating system. In other words, a smaller (larger) amount of coolant will pass through the batteries, and the temperature balance of the room will change accordingly.

You can install the regulator on the battery and the three-way unit separately, but to increase efficiency it is recommended to install a mixer with a thermostat.

Types of three-way valve actuators

Types of three-way valve actuators

The unit is externally similar to a regular tee, with a valve installed on top. The operating principle is based on the rotary mode of the valve, which changes or shuts off two flows.

According to the type of control, the drive can be:

• manually adjustable;
• electric;
• thermostatic.

The operating principle of each of them is different. Manual control is carried out using thumbwheels (rotary knobs). In order to change the temperature, you need to turn the tap to the desired position. The big disadvantage is the unevenness of the coolant and the heating system takes a long time to warm up. The operating principle does not allow you to constantly adjust the tap manually to achieve a comfortable temperature balance.

This product is equipped with a thermostat – gas or special liquid. The thermostat is located in a certain cavity inside the assembly. It responds to even the smallest fluctuations in the coolant.

As the temperature rises, the thermostat expands and sets in motion a piston system, which stops access to hot flows.

The main advantage of the product is absolute autonomous operation.

Motorized 3-way valve

This valve is equipped with servo drives and an electronic control unit, thanks to which the temperature regime of the coolant in the heating line is controlled and regulated. The main advantage of such control is maintaining the specified parameters in offline mode.

The principle of operation is as follows: the electronic unit measures the temperature of the coolant at the outlet, analyzes and gives a command to the drive through the controller, which, by changing its position, regulates the amount of cold and hot flow in the system.

Types of thermostats for radiators

Related article:

Will help in maintaining a comfortable microclimate in each room. This article describes the design options for these devices, methods of their installation, as well as several popular models of thermostats with prices and characteristics to make your choice easier.

Installation of thermostats is possible on battery passage plugs. With their help, the liquid supply to the product is partially or completely blocked. A faucet equipped with a thermostat works on the same principle. It is enough to set the parameters once, and the entire system will subsequently function in the specified mode. Electronic components have particular accuracy and functionality.

The principle of operation of the thermostat

Classification according to the method of controlling the temperature of the flows

Advantages and disadvantages of three-way valves with thermostat and electric drive

It is recommended to install a three-way valve in houses with solid fuel boilers. This is due to condensate falling out at the beginning of the furnace. The valve cuts off cold flows. At the same time, the heated coolant is started along a short circuit.

An electric magnet or an electric motor can be used as a drive in such units. The advantages of fittings supplemented with an electric drive include precise regulation of the flow temperature. However, due to the fact that the fluid movement does not stop at any position of the rod, energy costs and coolant consumption increase.

How to choose the right three-way valve

Before choosing a three-way valve, it is important to familiarize yourself with the principle of its operation and decide on the type of product. In addition, you should pay attention to the manufacturer. There are many low-quality analogues from unknown manufacturers on the plumbing products market. Heating system repairs and consequences will be expensive. Therefore, in this case, savings are inappropriate.

Key points to pay attention to when purchasing:

• copper and brass fittings has a longer service life;
• manual crane more reliable than electronic. However, its functionality is significantly lower;
• electronic three-way valve with actuator costs much more, and fails more often. The main advantage is a large set of functions.

Review of models and manufacturers of three-way valves

To do right choice, you need to compare the parameters of different models, clarify information about the manufacturer and compare prices.

We offer a short overview of leading manufacturers.

Three-way valve with electric drive "Esbe"

Manufacturer's shut-off valves "Esbe" It is distinguished by high quality, accuracy and affordable cost. In the manufacture of shut-off valves, a special brass alloy is used. Three-way valves are equipped with a servo drive.

We can highlight the VGR131 DN25 sample with an electric drive and this is an indicator of the highest quality of the manufacturer. Not all products are equipped with a servo or electric drive.

Three-way valves "Navien"

Manufacturer "Navien" known in the production of boiler equipment. Three-way valves are manufactured to regulate the flow of solid fuel equipment. The production of both three-way valves and boilers by one manufacturer, Navien, is a significant plus. This guarantees the efficient operation of the entire heating system.

Danfoss three-way valves

Quite a popular German manufacturer "Danfoss" produces three-way valves with electric drive, which are easy to operate, durable and reliable. The taps are quite compact. The most important thing is to choose the right model, then the result will be achieved.

In addition to the above advantages, we can note:

• accuracy of temperature control;
• sustainability;
• simple maintenance;
• the work is fully automated.

Price overview

Before you go to a retail outlet to purchase a three-way tap, you need to clarify all the technical points regarding the mixer and heating line. In addition, you can use our advice and look at reviews of manufacturers.

We offer an overview of proven manufacturers and the estimated cost of fittings:

• Swedish manufacturer "Esbe" offers faucets from RUB 3,900;
• "Honeywell" offers convenient and simple three-way valves for heating with a thermostat at a price of 5,500 rubles;
• "Valtec" entered the market not so long ago, but the products have proven themselves only with positive side. Cranes can be purchased at a price of 3,500 rubles;
• faucets manufacturer "Danfoss" offers at a price of 3,550 rubles;
• products "Heimer" can be called leaders in the budget line. They can be bought from 2,000 rubles.

The nuances of installing a three-way valve in a heating system

In order to correctly install a three-way mixer, it is important to know some of the nuances on which the uninterrupted and efficient operation of the heating system will depend.

Each product comes with instructions; strict adherence to them is necessary to avoid troubles:

• Follow the instructions on the body to set the valve to the correct position.

The symbols on the body mean:

1. A- straight move.
2. IN– perpendicular or bypass stroke.
3. AB– input and output are combined.

• It is important to determine the crane model. This determines where the coolant will come from to the tap;

• In a symmetrical (T-shaped) pattern the liquid enters the holes from the end and leaves after mixing through the center;
• in an asymmetrical (L-shaped) pattern the warm flow enters through the end hole, the cooled flow from below. After mixing, the coolant exits through the second end hole.

After this, it is necessary to prepare the heating system. First, turn off the water, then check for sediment in the line, which can damage the mixer. For installation you need to select convenient place with open access.

Conclusion

The benefits that three-way valves with thermostats bring to the heating system are very important. You can independently control the flow temperature. The action of a faucet can easily be compared to a household mixer, in which the water is made hotter or cooler depending on need. Before purchasing, you need to take into account the cross-sectional size, pipe capacity, additional installation of a drive, with which control is carried out automatically.

We hope that the review was useful to you. Join the discussion on this topic in the comments. We are happy to answer all your questions.

In order to correctly install the three-way valve, you can watch the video: