Selection rules, functionality and the best models of water flow sensors for a boiler and pump
The introduction of a water flow sensor for the boiler into the heating system and hot water supply makes it possible to secure communications from such a phenomenon as "dry running". This is how experts call the emergency activation of the pump in conditions when there is no water in the circuit, there is a high probability of engine overheating and failure of connecting components.
The water flow sensor for a gas boiler is a device combined with a pump through the nozzles, it monitors the pressure indicators in the water supply system. The standard equipment of the node in question includes:
- relay;
- wide inner chamber;
- make-up output channel;
- set of plates;
- compact float inserted into a stationary flask;
- small control valve mounted at the outlet.
The sensor acts as follows: if there is no working fluid flow in the system, the device automatically turns off the pumping station so that the circuit does not run dry, when water appears, the units start again.
Through the branch pipe, the liquid enters the apparatus; a petal or valve is provided on its inner wall. The reed switch is isolated from other components and is responsible for the connection to the power supply. The design also includes springs of different sizes.
When the pressure of water acts on the valve, it is displaced relative to its axis, and the magnet, located opposite, approaches the switch. Such a movement causes the contact to close, as a result of which the pump is connected. When the flow of liquid stops, when the pressure decreases, due to the weakening of the compression, the valve returns to its original position. Beckons moves, the contact is disconnected, the pump stops working.
Devices that monitor the flow of water are often built into circuits that need constant and comprehensive monitoring of the indicators of the life support system, into equipment operating in a complex automatic mode. Typically, such a sensor is used in tandem with a gas boiler and a pump, improved bundles are equally effective for hot water supply and for heating in the private sector.
The flow sensor is installed on the pipeline through which the liquid from the water supply is supplied. When water enters the system, the device sends a signal received by the boiler board, as a result, the operation of the circulation pump is suspended. The boiler control board activates the nozzles that provide heating of the running water, due to which the temperature of the liquid in the heat exchanger begins to rise. When the tap is closed, the sensor notifies the system about the stop of the water supply.
Modern communication systems are based on autonomous water supply - in this case, the most comfortable living conditions are created. Here, the entire functionality of the flow sensor boils down to the fact that when any of the devices introduced into the water supply system is activated, the pump is connected and water flows. Therefore, when choosing a model, it is important to consider its size and throughput.
Varieties of the lineup
According to the type of execution, the units are classified into choke and relay, they are also typified according to the indicator of working pressure.
Relay devices are installed on pumps that do not have high power. As a rule, relay sensors serve as a rational addition to single chamber instruments. Experts warn that this class of devices exhibits low conductivity. On the profile market, there are models characterized by vertical placement of plates. The upper limit of their working pressure is 5 Pa. Representatives of the P48 series are often introduced into protective systems, they minimize the likelihood of leaks, attract with stability and reliable operation.
Choke devices that functionally complement pumps have become widespread. They can be distinguished by the characteristic horizontal placement of the plates; in the samples with advanced technology, two valves can be seen. Here, too, the maximum pressure in the system should not exceed 5 Pa, but the protection class differs from the previous version - P58. The level of permeability of the unit is in direct proportion to the dimensions of the choke.
If we consider the mechanism for triggering a device, you can use one of two scenarios:
- a model operating on the principle of a Hall sensor - it gives signals both about the presence of a water flow and about the parameters of its supply (that is, speed);
- Reed switches operate on the principle of a magnet - a magnetic float is provided in their case, it moves along the inner cavity in proportion to the increase in fluid pressure, thereby influencing the location of the reed switch.
Low pressure devices are rational for installation on pumps, the power of which does not exceed 4 kW. The parameters of the camera have a direct impact on the degree of passability of the device. The profile market is filled with two float models of sensors for pumps. A rich assortment range and loyal value contribute to their widespread use.
The design of high-pressure devices provides for a single elongated fitting, in which the plates are placed in the horizontal direction. It is recommended to use similar samples in tandem with centrifugal pumps. Here protection class P70 is provided, the maximum pressure mark is at the level of 6 Pa.
Instrument selection criteria
- the level of electricity consumption;
- maximum head;
- priority method of installing a boiler, pump, sensor directly;
- weight range of attachments, which will not damage the boiler's performance;
- requirements for the quality of the passed water;
- device performance.
The markings of the nodes usually indicate the models and full characteristics of the equipment, in tandem with which a particular device will fully function. The cost of production is influenced by factors such as body material, type of fixation, weight, power consumption and operating head.
The strengths of the units:
- simple installation - installation can be done on your own;
- the ability to coordinate all parameters of the flow of water or working fluid;
- the ability to automatically turn off the pump in the event of an abnormal situation;
- rich assortment and flexible price range.
When choosing, it should be borne in mind that when the springs are weakened, the correct operation of the unit will be questioned. Not every heating system can incorporate such a component; here you need to delve into the specification.
Review of products from the best manufacturers
Companies, whose assortment includes double-circuit boilers, offer users highly specialized additional equipment, among which flow sensors occupy a special niche.
The products of the Electrolux concern are combined with the GCB 24 X FI and GCB 24 XI series, their weight is only 150 g, the maximum working pressure is 1.5 Pa. The dimensions of the devices are compact - 40x115x45 mm, the pressure range does not exceed 3 bar, the upper mark of the permissible environmental humidity is 70%.
Viessmann Vitopend WH1D
The Wisman flow sensor is installed in the gas boiler on the left side of the valve body. This element is necessary to control the parameters and performance of the hot water flow. The model is designed for the Vitopend and Vitopend 100 series.
Ariston GENUS CLAS B 24
The Genus Ariston sensor is needed to coordinate the heating of water by a gas boiler. With the flow, a signal is sent to the electronic board of the latter, as a result, the equipment goes into operation mode. A magnetic float is enclosed in a composite plastic case, it acts on a reed switch, the contacts of which are closed (the boiler starts to produce hot water) or open (heating is provided).
Grundfos UPA 120
The device protects the pump from idling, is introduced into individual water supply systems. The functionality of the automation needs to ensure a steady flow of liquid at least 90-120 l / h. The protection class of the device is IP65, the power consumption of this budget model does not exceed 2.2 kW. The limits of operating temperatures are kept in a positive range - from 5 to 60 ° C, 8 A is an indicator of the maximum consumed current.
It is widely used in domestic water supply systems, the basis for its activity is the actual water consumption. The sensor is able to monitor the pressure level in the water supply system. The pump starts only when the minute water flow reaches 1.5 liters. The degree of protection of the unit is IP65, the operating voltage is used in the range of 220-240 V. Power consumption is kept at around 2.4 kW.
Immergas 1.028570
Initially, the model was developed for use with boilers of the same brand, it is compatible with double-circuit gas equipment of the Victrix 26, Mini 24 3 E, Major Eolo 24 4E series. The device can be used with boilers of turbocharged and chimney versions. The sensor is enclosed in a plastic case, equipped with a threaded element for insertion into the system. An additional option is the ability to receive hot water at a stable temperature at the outlet.
A significant segment of water flow sensors for a boiler is supplied complete with heating equipment, so the need for their installation arises only in the event of a breakdown, when you have to think about a commensurate replacement. A rare case when a separate installation of the device is planned is the need to increase the pressure of the fluid supplied to the system. A similar situation occurs if the central water supply is characterized by low pressure, barely reaching the needs of the boiler. In order for a gas appliance to be able to provide the proper quality of hot water supply, it must deal with a good pressure.
To solve this problem, an additional circulation pump is mounted and equipped with a water flow sensor (the introduction of components into the system should be done in this order). With the beginning of the flow of water, the device activates the pump, which leads to an increase in pressure.
Homemade models are made from a camera that will be used in conjunction with three horizontally mounted plates. It is important that the latter do not come into contact with each other and do not touch the bulb.
For the simplest modifications, the introduction of one float is sufficient. The fitting should be mounted in tandem with two adapters, the maximum allowable valve pressure is 5 Pa.
