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TECHNICAL
Balancing valve
By Patrick Gordon of Calafrica ( technical @ calafrica . co . za )
This issue Patrick looks at the Thermostatic Balancing valve .
Q – How does a Thermostatic Balancing Valve work ? passage reopens , to ensure that all the branches of the system reach the required temperature .
The Thermostatic Balancing Valve is used to automatically balance the temperature between the recirculation loops in a domestic water distribution system . This ensures that all parts of the system reach the required temperature . This model is also equipped with a bypass mechanism that is used when you are required to disinfect the system against Legionella .
So how does it work ? In domestic hot water distribution circuits , it is a requirement to prevent the growth of Legionella . This is attained by ensuring the correct temperature in the complete system . It is often difficult to achieve this due to the varied friction losses in the system . This valve is used to balance the different loops within the circuit and helps maintain a uniform temperature distribution .
A thermostatic regulator , installed on each branch of the recirculation circuit , automatically maintains the set temperature . This device modulates the medium flow rate in accordance with the water inlet temperature by means of the action of a dedicated internal thermostatic cartridge . When the water temperature approaches the set value , the Main Seat progressively reduces the passage . The medium flow rate supplied by the recirculation pump is thus distributed to the other network branches , resulting in effective automatic thermal balancing .
The temperature is set at the desired value by turning the adjustment knob . The graduated scale shows the temperatures at which the indicator can be set .
After adjusting the temperature , the setting can be locked at the desired value by using the control knob . For this purpose , unscrew the locking screw at the top of the control knob , remove the knob and then put it back on so that the internal reference couples with the protrusion on the knob holder nut . When this block is used , the reference of the indication of the temperature values on the knob is lost .
To further facilitate an easy installation , a preformed insulation shell is also available .
All images supplied by Patrick Gordon
On reaching the set temperature , the main seat ( 1 ), governed by the thermostatic sensor ( 2 ), modulates the closure of the hot water outlet ( 3 ), thereby aiding circulation towards the other connected circuits . If the temperature decreases , the opposite action occurs and the
For any further information regarding this topic please feel free to contact Patrick Gordon on : + 27 ( 0 ) 83 303 1437 PA
www . plumbingafrica . co . za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline August 2023 Volume 29 I Number 6