How to select and install a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems, operating principle. What is a hydraulic accumulator and why is it needed? Pressure accumulators for water supply
Hydraulic tanks for water supply systems are presented in the form special devices included in household and industrial systems water supply
The installation of these products is carried out in order to reduce excess pressure in the system. Hydraulic tanks are often called membrane tanks.
This is due to the fact that there is a rubber gasket inside the device -. It divides the device into two parts.
1 Description of the design and purpose of the tank
Membrane tanks for hot water supply systems are presented in the form of a special container. Expansion tank, which controls the required level of pressure in the system and ensures water supply to the house, is presented in the form of a rubber bulb.
It is connected to the tank body using a special flange. The flange has threaded connection, and the connection diagram demonstrates in detail its connection to the water main.
Membrane tanks for water supply systems, providing optimal pressure, are designed in such a way that the space between the body and the membrane is filled with air. The pressure inside this space is 1.5-2 bars.
The circuit of the presented device has a number of features that make it possible to maintain the nominal pressure, both in domestic and industrial installations. The hydraulic tank circuit is quite simple; the device consists of:
- Housings with rubber membrane;
- Flange;
- Nipple;
- Air removal valve;
- Fitting securing the membrane.
Pressurized water flows through the plumbing system into the membrane.
As a result, the membrane increases in size. The expansion tank contributes to a significant increase in air volume.
Between the wall and the membrane this volume decreases, which subsequently leads to the fact that the pressure increases significantly.
The hot water supply system of a private house is designed in such a way that when a normal pressure level is established, the relay contacts open.
The air that accumulates in the space between the membrane and the housing exerts pressure on the bulb with water that is inside.
The scheme by which water is supplied to a private house is designed in such a way that when you open the tap supplying water, the built-in membrane will be directly activated. The air pressing on it will push water out of the tank straight into the tap.
1.1 Classification and description
Hydraulic tanks are divided into two types: vertical and horizontal. This division arose due to different ways mounting devices.
What these products have in common is that in all modifications, air will gradually accumulate in the part where the water is located.
In vertical modifications, air removal is carried out using a special nipple.
In devices horizontal type everything is somewhat more complicated - it requires availability ball valve and sewer drain.
Products painted red are intended to provide... Despite the fact that the membrane in such units is quite strong, they cannot be used in supply systems cold water Not recommended.
Devices of blue color designed for inclusion in cold water supply systems. The operating threshold of safe pressure for blue modifications in most cases does not exceed 8 bar.
In both variations, the membrane is made using food-grade rubber, which is safe and does not contain harmful substances. human body impurities.
The price of expansion tanks in most cases depends on the characteristics of the modification, the type of device and the manufacturer.
Aquasystem hydraulic tank, floor-mounted:
- Working volume: 80 l;
- Maximum operating temperature: +100 °C;
- Position: horizontal;
- Maximum operating pressure: 10.0 bar;
- Price: 70-75 $.
Hydraulic tank AFCV 50, wall-mounted:
- Working volume: 70 l;
- Maximum operating temperature: +95 °C;
- Position: vertical;
- Maximum operating pressure: 8.4 bar;
- Price: $67-72.
Hydraulic tank Aquapress ACR 8, universal:
- Working volume: 90 l;
- Maximum operating temperature: +99 °C;
- Position: vertical;
- Maximum operating pressure: 9.0 bar;
- Price: 45-50 $.
When choosing a unit, the most simple solution there will be a purchase of a 24-liter modification. It must be installed as close to the pump as possible.
In order to choose the right product, you need to keep in mind several criteria that affect the efficiency calculation.
You need to know exactly the pump performance parameters. As a rule, this value is equal to 40 l/min.
The value of peak water consumption is also taken into account. On average, the maximum water flow rate for a shower will be 10 l/min, for a toilet – 7 l/min, for a kitchen – 6 l/min.
With such water consumption values, a tank with a volume of 100 liters is quite suitable. You should pay attention to those units that can provide an internal operating pressure of 1.5 bar. This indicator should be checked at least once a year.
1.3 How to install the hydraulic tank correctly?
When installing the unit, be sure to follow the recommendations indicated by the manufacturer.
Ideally, installation should be done qualified specialist, however, with due respect general rules you can do it yourself.
Before installation, you should take into account not only the weight of the product, but also the nominal volume of water that will subsequently be contained in it.
The installation is carried out in a heated room - overcooling of the unit is extremely unacceptable.
It is important to comply with all requirements for the conditions of the installation site, which are specified by the manufacturer.
During the installation process, it is important to prevent static loads and mechanical damage to the unit body.
To avoid the occurrence of extraneous noise and vibrations, it is necessary to secure the device using pre-prepared rubber gaskets.
The storage tank for water supply must be installed in such a way that upon completion of installation it can be easily accessed.
1.4 How to replace the hydraulic tank membrane? (video)
A modern autonomous water supply must be equipped with a container for storing a certain amount of water. Of course, the simplest version of such a device is a plastic or metal tank installed somewhere in the attic.
However, hydraulic accumulators for water supply are confidently replacing conventional storage tanks, since they are more convenient and have a better effect on the condition of the system.
The article we have proposed describes in detail the types of hydraulic accumulators and provides the rules for selection. We conveyed in detail how the equipment is installed and adjusted. The recommendations we provide will ensure trouble-free operation of the device and extend its service life.
A hydraulic accumulator, also known as a hydraulic tank, also known as an accumulator or pressure tank, is different names the same device.
On the outside it is really a metal tank, and on the inside the container is divided into two parts by a special rubber gasket, which is sometimes called a membrane.
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System autonomous water supply – profitable solution for private households. To maintain constant pressure in the water supply for uninterrupted operation household appliances and equipment, a special device is provided - a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems.
It helps smooth out sharp fluctuations in water pressure, preserve the working life of the pump and power the system during a short-term power outage.
What is a hydraulic accumulator
A hydraulic water tank is a special sealed device made of metal with an internal elastic membrane, designed to constantly maintain stable pressure in the water supply.
In addition, the device is used to solve the following problems:
- Precautions pumping equipment from wear. The pump will turn on when the water tap is opened if the accumulator tank is completely empty. This will result in more unused pump starts and longer pump life.
- Maintaining constant pressure in the water supply system, preventing pressure drops and water hammer while simultaneously using several water intake points.
- Maintaining an optimal supply of liquid in the water supply system, which ensures water supply in conditions of frequent power outages.
How a hydraulic accumulator works and works
The design of the hydraulic accumulator is quite simple; it consists of a metal tank, which is divided by an internal rubber membrane into two chambers - for water and air.
For the manufacture of the membrane, durable butyl is used, resistant to mechanical damage, chemical and biological influences, which fully complies with sanitary and hygienic standards.
The membrane is fixed to the body using a flange with an inlet valve.
The pumping station supplies compressed air to the hydraulic accumulator tank. When withdrawing fluid from the system air gap reduces internal pressure in the hydraulic tank and prevents possible diaphragm rupture. Water is supplied to the device through the inlet pipe.
The connecting pipeline and the pressure pipe must be identical in size to prevent possible hydraulic losses in the pipeline.
In devices with a volume of over 80 liters, a special valve is installed to remove air from the liquid. For small appliances with a capacity of 24 liters, it is recommended to install additional element– adapter or tap.
How does the tank connected to the system work? The principle of operation of the hydraulic accumulator provides for the following:
- Pump under high pressure forces water into the membrane. After reaching the permissible pressure level, the relay sends a signal to turn off the equipment.
- If there is a slight drop in pressure, the supply equipment turns on automatically and the cycle repeats. Proper adjustment of the pressure switch allows you to adjust the permissible switching frequency.
- During operation of the tank, air masses can accumulate inside the membrane, which leads to a decrease in the operating efficiency of the device. In this case, maintenance is carried out on the tank to bleed off residual air masses. The frequency of activities is determined by the internal volume of the tank and the frequency of its use.
Selecting the optimal tank volume
The volume of the hydraulic accumulator is selected individually, taking into account the general needs of a particular household. It is important to know that the volume indicated in the technical data sheet is standard size hydraulic tank Consequently, the liquid reserve in such a device is 50%, the rest is compressed air. No less important are the dimensions of the tank. Thus, a 100-liter tank is a container 85 cm high and 45 cm in diameter, which requires enough free space for installation.
When choosing the volume of a hydraulic tank, the average daily level of water consumption from each water intake point per number of consumers is taken into account:
- Pumping equipment capacity is from 1.6 to 2.1 cubic meters per hour, from 2 to 3 consumers - a tank with a volume of up to 25 liters.
- Equipment productivity is up to 3.6 cubic meters per hour, from 4 to 8 consumers - a tank capacity of up to 65 liters.
- Equipment productivity is up to 5 cubic meters per hour, up to 10 consumers - a tank with a volume of 100 liters or more.
A 25-liter hydraulic accumulator is capable of meeting the daily needs of a family of 3 people. This volume is enough to operate a compact system: a cold water tap, a sanitary unit and a water heater. When using additional household appliances and equipment, the capacity volume increases.
Permissible pressure level in the tank
Air pressure in the accumulator is important technical parameter pressure tank, which is unchanged and indicated by the manufacturer on the device body.
To determine the pressure level, the parameter of the height of the injected liquid in the operating system should be taken into account. In this case, the pressure should always remain less than this indicator.
The calculation is performed using the following formula: per 1 meter of communications – 1 meter of water column pressure (1 bar).
Datm. = (Bmax+6)/10, where
Vmax – maximum height of the water intake point – shower, boiler. To do this, measure the height at which the point is located relative to installed tank and is substituted into the formula to determine the working pressure.
Example: for a household with 2 floors, the operating pressure of the air masses in the hydraulic tank will be (8 + 6)/10 = 1.4 atmospheres. If the internal pressure is lower, then the water will not rise to the second floor.
The standard factory pressure value is 1.5 atmospheres. However, it may be different in different devices, so for an accurate measurement it is necessary to use a pressure gauge attached to the tank nipple.
The maximum pressure value in modern hydraulic tanks does not exceed 10 atmospheres.
Installation diagram of a hydraulic accumulator with a surface pump
Before connecting the hydraulic accumulator, the operating pressure must be checked, which should be 0.3-1 bar lower than the pressure of the pumping equipment.
To install the hydraulic tank you will need:
- five-pin fitting;
- regulating pressure switch;
- pressure gauge;
- sealant.
The fitting is used to connect a hydraulic tank, surface pump, and measuring equipment. The fifth outlet element is intended for supplying a water supply pipe.
Installation is performed in the following order:
- The fitting is connected to the tank via a flange connector with an inlet valve or a durable hose.
- A pressure gauge, a control relay and a water pipe laid from the pumping equipment are fixed to the fitting.
- Next, the relay is connected. To do this, the top cover on the housing is dismantled to expose the working contacts - for the pump and the network. The supply wire from the pumping equipment is connected to the corresponding contact, and the electrical wiring wire is connected to the other contact.
Important! Some relay models are produced without special labels, so it is recommended to entrust the connection to specialists.
- Threaded connections are carefully sealed.
- A test run of the pump is carried out and the functionality of the entire system is checked.
Installation diagram of a hydraulic accumulator to a submersible pump
The hydraulic tank connection diagram is similar to the previous one, the difference lies in the method of installing the pump.
The water supply system from a submersible pump uses check valve, which prevents water from leaving the membrane back into the hydraulic structure. The valve is mounted in front of the supply pipe on the pumping equipment; in some cases, an internal thread is made on the cover for this purpose.
A fitting is used for connection required diameter With external thread. After installing the valve, a supply water pipe of the required length is connected to it.
The length is determined quite simply: the end of the rope with a sinker is lowered into the hydraulic structure and the top point of the structure is marked. Next, the rope is raised and the length is measured from the sinker to the top point. The height from the point to the place where the pipe from the hydraulic structure is laid into the ground, as well as the length of the pumping equipment with the valve, is subtracted from the finished value. The optimal pipe length is when the equipment rises above the bottom of the well or well to a height of up to 35 cm.
Preventing air locks
In any water supply system there are air masses contained in the water. Penetrating into expansion tank, they are released from the liquid medium and accumulate, which can cause the formation air jams at various parts of the system.
To combat plugs, the vertical hydraulic tank is equipped with special valve fittings located in the upper part of the structure, which help remove excess air masses and equalize the pressure of liquid and air in a sealed membrane.
The horizontal tank is equipped with an additional pipeline unit, including a drain, an air outlet nipple and a ball valve.
Regardless of the installation method, bleeding of excess air from hydraulic accumulators is carried out after the liquid has been completely drained.
Prevention, repair and troubleshooting
Any types of hydraulic accumulators for water supply systems require comprehensive maintenance and timely prevention.
There are reasons why expansion tanks fail great amount, but the main ones are the high frequency of pumping equipment switching on, water supply through a check valve, low water pressure, low operating pressure in the hydraulic tank, damage to the internal membrane or outer walls of the housing, and incorrectly selected tank volume.
In order to eliminate serious breakdowns and prevent the emergency condition of the tank, regular inspections and preventative maintenance of the device are required.
Some breakdowns can be resolved as follows:
- Air pressure is increased by forcing it through the nipple hole using pumping or compressor equipment.
- The damaged surface of the membrane or housing is restored in the service center (service center). If there is serious damage, they are replaced.
- The pressure difference is equalized by significantly increasing the differential, taking into account the operating frequency of the installed pumping equipment.
- The sufficient volume of the hydraulic tank is determined before starting installation work.
To ensure uninterrupted operation of the system, there should be no air pockets in it. The frequency of inspections is once every 3 months. During this period, full control is carried out over the set pump response thresholds, relay settings, the tightness of the housing, the serviceability of the membrane and the absence of leaks.
Incorrect adjustment of any element of the system can affect the performance and durability of the hydraulic tank.
Hydraulic accumulator for hot water and cold water supply has been successfully used in private households. Proper connection and configuration of the device will ensure long service life and effective work water supply systems.
Often homeowners are faced with the problem of a sharp increase in pressure (jumps) of cold water in private sectors. You can turn a blind eye to this if the owner is not interested in anything other than the water supply. But when a washing machine is installed in the house, Dishwasher, this will become a problem. In this case, hydraulic accumulators for water supply systems, which stabilize the pressure, save household appliances from breakdowns. Some models are spacious and allow you to use water for some time after the supply has stopped, which is not uncommon in the private sector. Today we’ll talk about the types of storage tanks for water supply, connection diagrams, and also find out which manufacturing companies offer such products on Russian markets.
Read in the article:
What is a hydraulic accumulator: the role of the unit in water supply
A hydraulic accumulator, also called a hydraulic tank or membrane tank- This is a water tank included in the water supply system. Inside there is a membrane on which air presses, which allows you to turn the pump on and off as needed. Why is it installed?
Why do you need a hydraulic accumulator in cold water supply and hot water supply?
The hydraulic tank performs several functions:
- maintaining water pressure at a given level (adjustable);
- protection against pressure surges;
- increasing the service life of the water pump, turning it off periodically;
- node protection plumbing system from water hammer;
- increasing the service life of household appliances connected to cold water supply;
- the ability to use the water supply for some time after the supply is cut off.
Regardless of whether the water supply system of a private house is subject to pressure drops or water hammer, such a device will not be superfluous in the scheme. After all, preventing an emergency is easier than eliminating its consequences.
Construction of hydraulic accumulators for water supply to private houses
This unit consists of two parts - the hydraulic tank itself and a membrane that divides its internal volume into 2 sections, one of which is filled with water and the other with air. Hydraulic tanks of 100 liters or more are equipped with a valve through which air accumulated in the water is released. Smaller devices are equipped with a special valve or tap for these purposes.
The membrane for the hydraulic accumulator is made of butyl - a special rubberized material that is resistant to bacterial influences and meets all the requirements of sanitary and epidemiological standards.
The principle of operation of a hydraulic accumulator in a water supply system
The operating algorithm of such devices is divided into four stages:
- Water supply by pump to the internal membrane.
- When the required pressure is reached, turn off the pump and stop the water supply.
- When the taps are opened, the flow from the tank is shown when the pump is turned off.
- A decrease in pressure in the tank causes the membrane to sag in reverse side, the pump turns on again.
The pressure switch, as well as the amount of air pressing on the membrane, can be adjusted within the range specified by the manufacturer.
Related article:
In the publication we will look at what it is, scope of application, design features, principle of operation, advantages and disadvantages, selection criteria, models and manufacturers, do-it-yourself installation.
Good to know! The larger the storage capacity, the wider the range of settings. Large tanks allow you to turn on the pump less often, which increases its durability.
Hydraulic accumulators need to be serviced periodically. The fact is that the air supplied with water accumulates inside, which leads to a decrease in the performance of the tank. Once every 2-3 months, the accumulated air is released through a special tap or valve (if automatic release is not provided). Automatic hydraulic tanks only require visual inspection and leak checks every six months. Air pressure is adjusted as needed.
Types of hydraulic water tanks: separation by location and other parameters
Let's present this section in tabular form for ease of understanding:
| Separation | Designation | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|
| Location type | Horizontal | The volume of such tanks is larger. The vertical position allows the air release valve to be installed from above. This makes maintenance easier. The only limitation in installation is the volume of the room. |
| Vertical | Compact options in which a tap is installed to vent air. The disadvantage is that in some models you have to completely drain the water to bleed the air, which is not economical. | |
| Energy storage | Pneumatic accumulation | Diaphragm, balloon or piston. The problem arises when the partition wears out - expensive and labor-intensive repairs are required. |
| Balloon or pear | Most popular. When worn out, the pear is replaced with a new one independently, without the involvement of professionals. | |
| Mechanical storage | Weight or spring. Work is based on kinetic energy. Quite voluminous and work autonomously. |
How to choose a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems of a private house
Before purchasing, you should consider all the parameters of the hydraulic tank. Special attention worth paying attention to:
- tank volume;
- type of location;
- type of energy storage;
- nominal pressure;
- cost of the selected model.
When purchasing, you should ask your sales consultant about the availability and cost of replacement membranes or cylinders for the selected model and how accessible they are in principle. It would be useful to check the accompanying documentation and certificate of conformity, as well as clarify the warranty period for the device.
Related article:
: what it is, device and principle of operation, types, how installation is performed, review of models, average prices, useful tips and recommendations – read our review.
Important information! If planned self installation, you need to find out if this is a reason to void the warranty. Some manufacturers oblige buyers to hire professional installers - this is prescribed as one of the clauses of the warranty service agreement.
It is quite difficult to understand the range of such products. Today, products from various companies are presented on store shelves. In order to help the reader, we will consider the most famous and popular among the population.
Which company is better to buy a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems?
As an example, here are the 5 most famous and popular brands (one model from each manufacturer) with some technical characteristics.
| brand, model | Tank volume, l | Operating water temperature, ˚С (max) | Pressure, atm. (max) | Dimensions (VShG), mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | 99 | 8 | 480×460×600 | |
| 20 | 99 | 10 | 492×250×250 | |
| 12 | 70 | 10 | 310×280×280 | |
| Stout | 50 | 100 | 10 | 770×382×382 |
| 24 | 90 | 6 | 290x265x265 |
The 50 and 100 liter Gilex hydraulic accumulator models are very popular. They are made from high-strength steel, which ensures reliability and durability. Here's what netizens say about this brand.
MarEvo512, Russia, Moscow: Last week we had to replace an old hydraulic accumulator that had worked for eleven years with the exact same model. The Gilex brand hydraulic accumulator is a metal tank with a capacity of 50 liters with horizontal installation... I can confidently recommend such a hydraulic accumulator, because 11 years of impeccable year-round operation gives me the right to do so, although the manufacturer plays it safe and gives a service life that is half as long. I rate the Gilex hydraulic accumulator “excellent” and have no doubt that it will work long years, like its predecessor...
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_5225199.html
We calculate the required volume of the hydraulic accumulator for the water supply system
The volume of the accumulator depends on the number of consumption points (shower, sink, toilet), as well as on the number of residents (a secondary indicator). It is worth considering the power (type) of the pump.
| Pump | Power, W | Location | Hydraulic accumulator tank volume, l | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Surface | ≤ 1000 | Horizontal | 24 |
| ≥1000 | Horizontal | 50 | ||
| Submersible | ≤500 | 24 | ||
| 500-1000 | Horizontal or vertical | 50 | ||
| 1000-1500 | Horizontal or vertical | 100 | ||
Stages of installing a hydraulic accumulator for do-it-yourself water supply systems
The installation of the purchased hydraulic accumulator is carried out in several stages. The first thing to do is check the pressure in the air chamber. This is done simply, using a car pump or compressor equipped with a pressure gauge. The pressure is made slightly greater than the value at which the pump turns on. Top level is set with a relay and set one atmosphere above the primary level.
Selecting a hydraulic tank connection diagram
The most convenient connection diagram for a hydraulic accumulator with a five-terminal manifold is considered. Installation is carried out according to the diagram, which is in technical documentation. A manifold with five outputs is screwed to the hydraulic accumulator fitting. The remaining 4 outputs from the manifold are occupied by a pipe from the pump, water supply to the home, a control relay and a pressure gauge. If you do not plan to install a measuring device, then the fifth output is muted.
Connecting the accumulator to the water supply system
After assembling all the components, the pump is first lowered into the well or well (if the system is equipped submersible pump), or a hose (if the pump is surface). The pump is supplied with power. That's all, actually.
Important! All connections are made with the winding of FUM tape or flax. It should be understood that the pressure in the system will be quite high. However, you shouldn’t be too zealous either; everything is good in moderation. Otherwise, there is a risk of the nuts on the fittings breaking.
Having dealt with the installation, you can move on to the issue of replacing the membrane, which more often fails in models with a vertical arrangement. Here we will compose step by step instructions with photo examples.
| Photo example | Action to be performed |
|---|---|
 | First, unscrew the bolts of the flange of the dismantled hydraulic tank. They are wrapped “into the body” or tightened with nuts - depending on the model. |
 | Once the bolts are removed, the flange can be easily removed. Let's put it aside for now - to remove the failed bulb, you need to unscrew another nut. |
 | Unfold the container. At the rear there is an inflator nipple. The nut also needs to be removed. There can be two of them, one of which acts as a locknut. This is done with a key of 12. |
 | Now, with a little effort, the pear is pulled out through big hole, from the flange side. |
 | We lay out the new pear and expel the air from it. This is necessary to make it more convenient to install it in the tank. |
 | Having folded it in four lengthwise, we insert it completely into the container, including the part that was outside when dismantled. This is done so that it is possible to get the nipple into the hole intended for it. |
 | The next stage is not for people with full physiques. Experienced craftsmen they say that in order to install the nipple for the hydraulic accumulator in place, sometimes you have to call your wife for help - they say, she has a thinner hand. |
 | Once in the hole, you must tighten the nut so that during further assembly it does not go back. In this case, everything will have to start again. |
 | Straightening seat pears and tighten the nuts on the nipple. There's only a small matter left... |
 | ... - install the flange in place and tighten the bolts. When tightening, do not overdo one screw. Having tightened everything a little, we begin broaching according to the system of opposite units. This means with six bolts the order is 1,4,2,5,3,6. This method is used in tire shops when pulling wheels. |
Now it’s worth taking a closer look at the required pressure.
What pressure should be in the accumulator: check the system for operability
The factory settings of the hydraulic tanks imply a set pressure of 1.5 atm. It does not depend on the volume of the tank. In other words, the air pressure in a 50-liter accumulator will be the same as in a 150-liter tank. If the factory settings are not suitable, you can reset the indicators to ones that are convenient for you. home handyman meanings.
Very important! You should not overestimate the pressure in hydraulic accumulators (24 liters, 50 or 100 – it doesn’t matter). This is fraught with failure of mixers, household appliances, and pumps. 1.5 atm., installed from the factory, were not taken from the ceiling. This parameter was calculated based on numerous tests and experiments.
The cost of various models of hydraulic tanks on the Russian market
You can buy a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems in large construction hypermarkets, specialized stores or on online resources. When choosing a tank, it is better to immediately purchase a volume with a reserve. Of course, you can later buy another one and connect it in parallel with the first one (this is allowed), but the price of a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems of 100 liters will be lower than the cost of two containers of 50 each. Let's consider some models of such devices with their technical characteristics and prices, as of January 2018.
| brand, model | Pressure (max), atm. | Water temperature (max), ˚С | Tank volume, l | Cost, rub. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 100 | 24 | 1800 | |
| 10 | 70 | 100 | 11800 | |
| 10 | 100 | 80 | 6000 | |
| 10 | 99 | 20 | 1300 | |
| 8 | 50 | 100 | 6000 | |
| STOUT | 10 | 100 | 80 | 4500 |
If we take average values, then the price of a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems of 50 liters (the most common) is not so high. Which means big hole purchasing this desired device It won't break the family budget.
Conclusion
The installation of hydraulic accumulators in the water supply systems of a private home is necessary. This will save you a lot of problems and unnecessary costs. Having once paid a small amount for a hydraulic tank, you don’t have to worry about the performance of your dishwasher or washing machine, durability of the pump and mixers.
And finally, we suggest watching an educational video on installing such tanks:
The hydraulic accumulator is a special element of industrial and household systems heating and water supply. Its installation is dictated by the need to stabilize excess pressure by accepting a certain volume of liquid. Why exactly is it customary to install hydraulic tanks for water supply systems?
This issue should be discussed in more detail:
- Firstly, there is the need to accumulate and maintain a certain volume of liquid;
- Secondly, when accumulating liquid, it is possible to neutralize excess pressure;
- Thirdly, this will reduce water hammer, which is often present in central water supply systems;
- Fourthly, even when the pump is turned off, the hydraulic accumulator makes it possible to maintain a certain pressure in the system;
- Fifthly, the hydraulic accumulator prolongs the life of the pump, which has to be turned on much less often;
- Sixthly, the hydraulic accumulator smoothes out water shortages during peak water consumption.
The hydraulic accumulator is otherwise called “Expanzomat”, but the name expansion tank is more widely used.
For a clearer and more accurate understanding of the purpose and location of the hydraulic tank in the water supply system, one should recall the structure and purpose of well-known water towers. Their main purpose is to accumulate a supply of water and create pressure in the system, which is colloquially referred to as pressure. The design of the water tower and its location did not allow for compensation of water hammer and smoothing out excessive pressure.
However, the similarity between a hydraulic accumulator and a water tower is that both devices improve the operation of the water supply system, and in the first case this occurs due to the use of potential energy compressed air, and in the second - as a result of the action of the potential energy of raised water.
Color
Hydraulic accumulators are used not only in plumbing, but also in heating systems. It is worth considering that the vast majority of manufacturers mark hydraulic accumulators in color, with blue ones for water supply systems, and red ones for heat supply systems. Sometimes there are also colorless devices; in any case, to eliminate doubts, you should read the technical documentation.
The difference between blue and red accumulators is as follows:
- The design of blue hydraulic tanks allows you to independently replace the membrane. They use food grade rubber.
- In red hydraulic tanks self-replacement membranes is not always possible. They use technical rubber.
Device
A hydraulic accumulator is a container in which water is accumulated, a bulb or membrane, and a filter, usually located inside. In addition, it is equipped various systems input-output, pipes and valves, as well as devices and structures that ensure stable operation of the water supply system outside. Based on the type of design, hydraulic accumulators can be classified into those equipped with a rubber bulb or membrane, which are located inside the device.
The shape of the membrane is similar to the outer shape of the tank, while the membrane reliably separates the air outside and the water inside. A filter is installed in the lower part of the tank at the water inlet, and a spool is placed in the upper part - the air inlet. In some cases, water may be introduced from above.
Hydraulic tanks with a bulb have a similar design, however, in some models the water connection can be made from the side, in which case the structure is horizontal. In this case, the pear can be attached either from two sides of opposite sides, or to one wall.
Ecological cleanliness
There is a lot of controversy regarding the difference in the quality of water that passes through a rubber bulb or membrane. Many are inclined to believe that water in contact with natural material rubber pear is environmentally safer. However, among experts there are statements that pears and membranes are made from quality materials, which do not affect the composition and environmental purity of water.
How to choose
The simplest solution is to purchase a 24-liter battery and install it as close as possible to the pump - in this case, the stability of the system is guaranteed. At high level The water consumption of such a tank, of course, will not be enough, so to correctly determine the volume, it would not be a bad idea to do some simple calculations.
There are several criteria to consider when performing calculations:
- Pump on/off frequency. It is considered optimal to turn on the pump no more than once every 2 minutes. You should start by determining the pump performance, which should be indicated in the device passport. Typically, this figure is 40 l/min. The space in the hydraulic tank is divided in half - in the lower part there is water, and in the upper part there is air. Based on this, we can conclude that you will need a hydraulic accumulator with a volume of up to 100 liters.
- Peak water consumption. The maximum water flow for the shower is 10 l/min, for the toilet – 6 l/min, for the kitchen – 8 l/min. A total of 24 liters per minute. Remembering that in a hydraulic accumulator half of the volume is allocated to water, we can conclude that a 100-liter tank will be quite enough to resolve the issue.
Note. If you want to resort to more accurate calculations, you should use UNI - the international calculation method. To complete it, you will need to fill out several tables and understand the presented formula.
The decision regarding the water reserve in case of a shutdown should be made subjectively, based only on your needs. If you focus on pressure, you need to understand that its value must exceed the pressure in the water supply system.
Normal operation of the tap is ensured at a pressure of 0.5 bar, this pressure is provided at a height water pipes 5 m or more. It is necessary to ensure pressure at a level no less than the sum of these two values. Typically, manufacturers guarantee a pressure of at least 1.5 bar, but this indicator must be checked at least once a year.
Installation in a water supply system
It would not be amiss to draw attention to the fact that the installation of the hydraulic tank should be carried out taking into account the manufacturer’s recommendations. It is optimal if installation work is entrusted to specialists. True, the owner of the house, in an effort to save money, always tries to carry out the work himself. There is nothing wrong with this, if “your hands are positioned correctly,” then you just need to follow the instructions, however, there are a number of points that you should pay especially close attention to:
- Do not install a hydraulic tank whose body is damaged;
- When performing installation work, you should take into account not only the weight of the tank itself, but also the volume of water that will be placed in it after installation;
- In some cases it may be necessary to drain the hydraulic tank, so this should be taken into account during installation;
- The hydraulic accumulator should be installed in a heated room - freezing is not allowed;
- Conditions at the installation site must meet the requirements set by the manufacturer;
- The accumulator housing must be protected not only from the possibility of mechanical damage, but also from moisture;
- Any elements of the accumulator, as well as the supply parts of the system, should not experience static loads;
- If you decide to install a hydraulic accumulator with a volume of 500 liters or more, then it would be a good idea to determine in advance its dimensions and the possibility of delivery to the installation site.
Possible malfunctions and their elimination
In most cases, hydraulic tank malfunctions can be repaired, and this can be done not only by a specialist, but also by the owner of the device.
Thus, frequent turning on of the pump can simultaneously signal several shortcomings:
- Lack of compressed air inside the device - the problem is eliminated by pumping air with a conventional car pump.
- Membrane damage. The membrane should be replaced and only the original product should be installed.
- Deficit difference between the pressure at which the pump turns on and off. It is necessary to configure the pump on/off parameters by adjusting the pressure switch.
- Damage to the body. This is perhaps the only problem that cannot be solved on your own. To restore the integrity of the case, you should seek professional help.
- Water leaking through air valve indicates membrane damage. The membrane needs to be replaced, it is better to contact a service center, but if the issue is resolved independently, then, as stated earlier, you should install the original membrane.
- Air pressure drop below design value. Blow out the nipple or spool and pump air into the hydraulic tank.
Another common malfunction of the hydraulic accumulator is the lack of pressure - a drop in water pressure below normal, which occurs for the following reasons:
- Lack or complete absence of compressed air in the hydraulic tank. The issue can be solved by simply pumping air.
- The pump is unable to create required pressure. The pump must be tested to determine if there is a problem.
Price
The cost of hydraulic accumulators can vary significantly. The price of the device is determined not only by the volume of the tank, but also by the brand. Also, the cost of devices in different regions countries may vary slightly, depending on the amount of shipping costs. There are offers to sell Chinese 24-liter hydraulic accumulators at a price of $30, while online the cost of hydraulic tanks for water supply systems ranges from $28-200.
Results and conclusions
In organizing the operation of a water supply system, the pump is considered the main element. The quality of water supply largely depends on its good condition and power. It should be taken into account that if there is a hydraulic accumulator, the pump ensures that water coming from the water supply system, well or borehole is pumped into it. To be more precise, the injection is performed, in fact, not into the tank, but into a bulb or membrane. The pumping of water into the hydraulic tank stops after reaching the set pressure mark.
When water is consumed, the pump resumes operation after a signal from the pressure sensor. Based on this, we can conclude that the hydraulic accumulator not only protects the pump from overload, but also stabilizes the operation of the water supply system and helps save energy.
The cost of the hydraulic accumulator is quite reasonable, Maintenance and repairs are simple and affordable, and volume and power are easy to calculate.