Cast iron batteries are already the last century. They were replaced by modern aluminum and bimetallic radiators. How they differ from each other, and which type of radiator to choose from, read our article.
Aluminum radiators: their advantages and disadvantages
Aluminum batteries have replaced heavy cast iron batteries. Aesthetically, they are much more attractive than cast iron, and they can boast of technical characteristics.
The advantages of aluminum radiators over cast iron and steel include the following:
- they have a higher level of thermal conductivity (3.5 times higher than that of steel radiators, and 4.5 times higher than of cast iron);
- the flexibility of the material allows you to cast radiators of various configurations from it;
- increased total surface area of the radiator;
- the ability to regulate power;
- lightness;
- not the highest cost (compared to bimetallic).
However, with a lot of their advantages, aluminum radiators also have a number of disadvantages.
For example, aluminum batteries are sensitive to the pH of the coolant (it should not be higher than 8), to its temperature (it should not exceed 110 degrees Celsius), to the internal pressure in the system (not higher than 16 atm). Even based on these data, we can conclude that aluminum radiators are quite capricious. And if you also consider that experts do not recommend using them together with other types of metals (this accelerates the corrosion process), then it becomes clear that you should not use aluminum radiators for central heating. Their use is justified in local heating.
Bimetallic radiators - characteristics
Bimetallic radiators consist of two components: a core made of steel and an outer shell made of aluminum. The presence of an internal core made it possible to reduce the requirements of such radiators to the quality of the coolant. These two components are very tightly adjacent to each other, due to which there is no loss of the level of heat transfer.
Bimetallic radiators are resistant to pressure surges, strong and durable. Manufacturers claim up to 25 years of warranty on their models, while experts say that with proper installation and operation of bimetallic radiator systems, they will last at least 50 years.
In addition, the decorative appearance of these radiators allows them to be used in apartments and private houses without compromising the interior design.
However, one cannot but mention the high cost of bimetallic radiators. This is one of the main disadvantages of these radiators.
There are two types of bimetallic radiators: monolithic and sectional. Monolithic ones, unlike sectional ones, have a fixed radiator length, but at the same time they are resistant to high internal pressure (up to 100 atm).
And in sectional models, it is possible to adjust the power of the radiator by increasing / decreasing the total length of the battery by adding / removing individual sections.
In addition, bimetallic radiators may differ from each other in the material from which the radiator core is made. It can be made of steel or copper. Naturally, in the second case, the cost of the heating system increases.
What is the difference between an aluminum radiator and a bimetallic one?
Based on what was stated above, we can conclude that the main differences between an aluminum radiator and a bimetallic radiator are as follows:
Based on this comparative characteristic, everyone is free to choose which radiator is better: bimetallic or aluminum.
Power of aluminum and bimetallic radiators
And finally, I would like to note that the power of both types of radiators is identical and amounts to 0.2 kW for each section.
Therefore, when choosing the type of radiator, you need to be guided not by power, but by other battery parameters.
After the heating season is over, many people start thinking about replacing old radiators. A significant percentage of housing in Russia is represented by Soviet-era panel buildings. The cast-iron batteries installed inside them, although they can serve for decades, sooner or later become unusable. They become overgrown with microcracks, rust and become unsafe. As soon as you find the first holes, be sure - it's time to send the cast-iron monsters to their well-deserved rest. The market offers two main types of batteries to replace them. In order not to get lost in the choice, it is important to learn what is the main difference between aluminum heating radiators and bimetallic ones.
To select the right radiator model, it is best to contact a professional repairman. However, if this is not possible, you will have to figure it out on your own and consult with the sellers of specialized stores.
Some sellers will try to confuse you, because their goal is to sell the product at a higher price. In addition, other negligent sellers may try to sell you aluminum radiators under the guise of bimetallic ones, and you should know how to distinguish them so as not to overpay for non-existent additional functions! To avoid falling for their tricks, read this article carefully.
Aluminum radiator - appearance
The radiators, which will be discussed in this article, are presented in the following two varieties:
- aluminum;
- metal.
The first ones are made not from pure aluminum, but from its alloy with silicon, the so-called silumin. When buying these batteries, it is best to give preference to the names of domestic production. The technology of their manufacture takes into account the unsatisfactory quality of water in Russian heating systems. Various chemical additives are often added to it, which are designed to reduce heat loss during water circulation. Due to this circumstance, alloys with reduced reaction characteristics are used for production.
Aluminum radiators are produced in the following two ways:
- Cast under pressure
One of the features of finished products manufactured using this technology is increased resistance to both water hammer and external damage. This happens due to the uniform distribution of the internal stresses of the installation. It is also characterized by precise shapes.
- Blanks are extruded through a die
This method is called "extrusion". After the individual blocks are ready, they will be connected together using a press. This manufacturing technique is much cheaper than casting, but the performance of finished products is much lower. Overseas have long abandoned the production of batteries using extrusion due to its ineffectiveness.
Attention! Whichever of the options listed above you choose, be sure to pay attention to the following point: adjacent to any other metal inside the water supply system, aluminum begins to collapse instantly. The presence of hot water in the pipes makes this process lightning fast. Therefore, you need to connect the battery to the heating system using reinforced polypropylene pipes.
The radiator sections are interconnected by means of nipples and seals. To determine the gasket material that suits you, it is important to know which fluid acts as a coolant for the installed batteries. She may be:
- Plain water. In this case, simple rubber products are perfect for you, reliable enough for proper battery operation;
- Antifreeze based on glycerine, ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. In addition to it, it is best to purchase paronite seals, since rubber quickly degrades under the influence of the above chemical compounds.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Aluminum Batteries
Aluminum radiators are rightfully one of the most demanded on the market. They have become leaders due to the fact that their operation has a number of indisputable advantages:
- batteries very quickly warm up the air in the premises;
- those models that have been injection molded can be equipped with additional sections during use;
- increased working pressure: for standard models it is about 10 - 15 atm., and for reinforced ones - it reaches 25 atm;
- the ability to set a comfortable heating temperature for you;
- the small dimensions of the device allow you to save more free space in the living space;
- installation of batteries does not require much effort due to the low weight of the case;
- an aluminum radiator can become a stylish addition to a modern interior, the main thing is to beat it correctly;
- the cost of such installations is available to everyone.
However, as the saying goes, "the coin has two sides." The presented type of radiators also have disadvantages:
- the serviceability of the aluminum case directly depends on the quality of the coolant. In the event that the pH level of the water rises above 8, corrosive reactions will begin at the joints. Therefore, if you are not sure about the quality of the liquid that will circulate inside the heating system, it is better to refuse this option;
- partial leaks at the joints of the body sections. Low-quality products never last long, therefore, in order to avoid such a nuisance, when buying, give preference to more expensive products;
- mandatory installation of an air vent. It is needed to filter the hydrogen that accumulates inside aluminum radiators;
- short service life of the air vent. Unfortunately, the device will serve you no more than 15 years, after which you will have to replace it with a new one.
- the participation of a specialist is required when installing radiators. Errors made during self-installation will lead to a quick failure of the device. All the money saved by a professional repairman will go to buy new batteries, but you still have to pay for the work.
Features of bimetallic radiators
The second option that the store can offer you is a bimetallic radiator. The prefix “bi” in the word “bimetallic” means “two”. This name is given to this type of battery because they are made from two metals: steel and aluminum.
Let's immediately turn to the positive characteristics of this species:
- steel as part of the material of which the body is made will perfectly withstand any surges in water pressure. It is also not subject to corrosion. These properties of the metal ensure high strength and long years of reliable service of the device;
- steel sheet provides serious protection of the case from external mechanical damage;
- active circulation of the coolant;
- aluminum coating will provide quick heating of the air in the living room;
- the operating pressure of the battery can reach 40 atm .;
- the maximum value of the possible temperature of the coolant is approximately 130 degrees, while aluminum products have only 110;
- durable paint coating of the body. This stability is achieved through a two-stage staining mechanism:
- First of all, the product is placed in a coloring solution and completely covered with paint;
- Then, on top of the dried first painting, another polymer layer made on the basis of epoxy resin is sprayed. Radiators processed using this technology not only look very aesthetically pleasing, but also acquire clearer geometric shapes;
- easy installation and transportation, especially if you resort to the help of professionals. The device of bimetallic batteries is not more complicated than that of simple aluminum ones, however, it is also better to entrust their installation to professionals. As long as the batteries are installed correctly, they will last you for so long;
- the ability to build up additional sections directly at your home. However, if you admit that you still want to increase their number, when buying, pay attention to the design of the radiator case. Some of the models on the market have a solid steel core, so they are not divided into sections.
Let's pay attention to the disadvantages of bimetal devices:
- aluminum used in tandem with steel loses its high heat transfer properties. Due to the presence of a steel core inside the battery, you will have to wait for the air to heat up to the desired temperature a little longer than you are used to;
- increased price. Since the price of steel is higher than that of silicon, the cost of bimetallic batteries also increases by about 30% compared to aluminum;
- increased operating costs. Since bimetallic devices boast increased hydraulic resistance, the amount of energy spent on circulating water will also increase;
- improper use of radiators can lead to corrosion of its steel parts. This will certainly happen if bimetallic batteries are installed in your summer cottage, which is not used in winter. As soon as the heating autumn season comes to an end, it will be necessary to carry out the procedure for draining the water from the system. It is because of this that corrosive processes will begin: the simultaneous contact of steel with air and water instantly starts them.
- The small bore of the tube inside the device is susceptible to fast clogging. This will shorten the life of the device.
Important! The coefficients of thermal expansion for steel and aluminum differ, which is why loud crackling starts to emanate from the battery after a short period of time. This sound does not mean that there is a problem inside the device. Don't worry, your health is safe!
These modern radiators can serve well even in rooms with high humidity levels. Their surface is not subject to corrosion. Such resistance to aggressive environmental influences gives the radiator sheet steel, which covers the body of the device with a protective layer.
Small section water channels are located inside the bimetallic radiators. Due to their modest size, they are quickly filled with hot water coming from a centralized water supply system or an autonomous boiler.
Construction professionals consider purchasing bimetallic batteries and installing them during renovations one of the best functional improvements to an apartment. The use of these devices over time fully pays for the money spent on them.
How to distinguish a bimetallic heating radiator from an aluminum one in appearance?
We have already talked about the advantages and disadvantages of each individual model and you have already decided on which radiator you should buy. The main thing at the time of purchase is not to confuse the products, because in this case all your time spent on assimilating the pros and cons will go down the drain and you will leave your fate to chance.
If you put two different radiators in front of you, you should easily distinguish which one is. The main difference between an aluminum radiator and a bimetallic one is that it is made exclusively of aluminum, i.e. the incoming and outgoing pipe (bends), which should be connected to the general heating system, must be made of aluminum and by knocking on it you will immediately understand what kind of metal it is!
How to distinguish the type of metal by knocking
If you knock on steel, the sound will be more sonorous and “metallic”, but if you knock on aluminum, the sound will be more dull. You need to hear this once and remember for a lifetime, you can describe it in words, but only by personal example you will learn the difference 100%. Find a piece of steel and aluminum at home and tap on it with various means:
- fingers;
- a nail;
- hammer;
- plastic stick;
- wooden stick.
Believe me, the difference will be significant!
In the store, you can do the same manipulation as this or that metal "sounds" you already know.
Second way
Look carefully at the very structure of the radiator, on the reverse side, visually inspect the "integrity of the structure" of bimetallic radiators, you should notice that a "non-integral" structure is noticeable at the places where the coolant passes. Even outwardly, it can be seen that aluminum is poured over the steel inner pipe.
Video - how to choose a bimetallic radiator
Comparison of the fundamental differences between aluminum and bimetallic radiators
In appearance, both presented radiators are very similar to each other. They are made in the form of rectangles made of metal, the shape of their ribs is flat. The number of sections for both types of structures is from 6 to 12 pieces. Their heat transfer also goes almost on par with each other, amounting to approximately 170-200 watts.
Today, it is very popular to play up every household detail of a room, turning it into a fashionable accessory. The same applies to the bimetallic batteries installed in your home. The outer coating of the products is always painted neutral white or gray. However, you can improve the standard store options yourself by covering them with a specialized bright paint. Apply a pattern to the radiator that you like and breathe a special atmosphere into the room.
Important! Before purchasing paint, consult with experts. It is important to choose non-toxic and heat-resistant to keep your health safe.
So, let's summarize and name the main difference in the operation of batteries made of aluminum and bimetal:
- Aluminum batteries are well suited for installation in country cottages and ordinary private houses. It is there that you need to get the maximum heat transfer from the radiators, especially in winter. Subject to low pressure and high quality of the coolant, this is an ideal option for heating suburban housing equipped with an autonomous heating system. It makes no sense to install bimetallic sections, as they can quickly fail;
- Bimetallic batteries were developed just for operation in the conditions of an urban centralized heating network. Impurities from aggressive chemicals have long been added to the water circulating through them to reduce heat loss. The steel core of bimetallic installations easily copes with these impurities, and also withstands hydrodynamic shocks and pressure drops in the system. That is why it is better to use this type for installation in an apartment, office, etc.
Video - choosing between a bimetallic and aluminum radiator
Why are cast iron radiators hopelessly outdated?
It's not fair to say that cast iron batteries are that bad. They have been serving people for almost a hundred years! They were also massively installed in the Khrushchev and Stalinist buildings, located everywhere. These batteries are still used in new buildings, and many residents are in no hurry to part with them. But still, new is new. We have prepared for you a list of reasons that will convince you to part with the cast-iron oldies:
- The heat transfer of one section of a battery made of cast iron reaches approximately 100 W. These indicators for sections of aluminum and bimetallic devices similar in surface area are one and a half, or even two times higher;
- Each section of the cast iron installation requires about a liter of water, while the updated devices require only about 4 liters;
- Unlike light aluminum items, the weight of each section of a cast-iron radiator weighs 6 kilograms. It turns out that the total weight of the battery is approximately 30-35 kilograms. And this is without water!
- Due to inertia, the temperature in such batteries cannot be changed in a short time period;
- The outdated appearance of the devices resembles the times of the USSR. By installing them in your apartment, you take away a few points from the thoughtful design of the room;
- Due to the long heating of the battery, it is inconvenient to use in private houses with an autonomous heating system;
- Imported boilers in country houses are often clogged with finely dispersed clay, which is washed out by water from cast-iron radiators and fail.
Important! Do not spare your money when buying new batteries. The lower the quality of the device, the less it will serve you. If the production technology was not followed during manufacture, other heating installations will have to be purchased again soon. Microcracking, metal corrosion, rapid loss of appearance - this is what awaits overly thrifty buyers. You should also order the installation of the selected batteries from professional builders to be sure of the quality of the work done by 100%.
Remember, it is you who will live in the house that you are equipping.
When choosing heating devices, it is important not to make a mistake and purchase equipment that has optimal technical and operational characteristics. The main aspects influencing the selection of products are battery design features, build quality, heat dissipation and resistance to mechanical and chemical stress.
If these criteria are taken into account, then it will not be difficult to choose which heating radiators are better, aluminum or bimetallic?
What is the difference between bimetallic radiators and aluminum ones?
When determining which is better, an aluminum or bimetallic heating radiator, first of all, you should pay attention to the design features. How the battery is arranged affects performance and heat dissipation.
Bimetallic batteries
Bimetal is a structure made of two different metals. The core is made of copper or steel, and the shell is an aluminum alloy. The design feature does not make it possible to use large-diameter pipes as a core, therefore there is a high probability of battery clogging during operation. It is recommended to regularly flush the sections.
Aluminum batteries
Consist of type-setting sections made by casting or extrusion. The latter method is not used in EU countries. Extrusion type batteries are produced by Chinese and several domestic manufacturers.The design provides for the presence of convection fins that increase heat transfer. The battery consists exclusively of aluminum, which affects the durability of operation.
Which radiators are better, bimetal or aluminum?
The fundamental difference between aluminum heating radiators and bimetallic ones is that the design of the latter provides for a core made of metal that is different from that used for the shell. This affects the parameters and performance of the battery:- Heat dissipation of radiators - in aluminum batteries, one section has a capacity of 200 watts. The power of bimetallic equipment with a steel core is not more than 180 W. The performance of the section of aluminum-copper radiators is also 200 W.
- Maximum pressure - water hammer and pressure surges are the weak point of aluminum models. The maximum pressure is only 16 atm., Which is often not enough for connection to a central heating system.
Bimetallic heating devices with a steel core can easily withstand pressure surges of 20 atm., And some manufacturers make a core that can withstand a water hammer with a power of 40 atm. - The quality of the coolant - the difference between bimetal radiators and aluminum products lies in the use of steel as a core, a material that practically does not enter into a chemical reaction.
Aluminum reacts to any impurities, therefore, the walls of the sections, when connected to central heating, quickly become thinner, leaks appear. In this case, the choice of a heating radiator between aluminum or bimetal is clearly in favor of the latter. - Battery life - bimetal is guaranteed to work for at least 15-20 years. Aluminum batteries are about 5 years less. The service life can be significantly affected by the quality of the coolant and the intensity of heating. The maximum operating temperature for aluminum equipment is 110 ° C, for bimetal 130 ° C.
- Cost - batteries made of aluminum are about a third cheaper than bimetal.
When choosing heating equipment, you should pay attention to the source of heating. The central system uses an aggressive heat carrier and pressure unfavorable for aluminum. In autonomous heating, there are much fewer negative factors affecting the operation of devices.
Which radiator to choose, aluminum or bimetal?
The decisive role in the definition is played by the structural difference between aluminum and bimetal radiators. It is better to install aluminum sections for private heating systems. The pressure in the pipeline, even when using circulation equipment, rarely exceeds several atmospheres, and the owner of the house will be able to monitor the quality of the coolant and thus extend the service life.Bimetallic radiators, without contact of the coolant with aluminum, are recommended for use in multi-storey buildings. But, this applies exclusively to models whose core is made of steel, the copper core can withstand a load of no more than 16 atm.
The difference between bimetallic and aluminum heating radiators lies not only in the design features, but also in the performance characteristics that they affect. If we take into account all the indicators and parameters, then bimetallic heating devices remain of better quality.
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Bimetallic radiators, which, as the name implies, are made from a composition of two metals, began to be produced more than fifty years ago in European countries. They quickly gained wide popularity due to their reliability and operational efficiency when installed in any heating system.
Which bimetallic batteries are best to choose, and what should you pay special attention to? This question always arises for all those who decided to replace old heating devices with more modern options, which are distinguished by both high performance characteristics and a respectable appearance.
Today the production of bimetallic radiators has also been established in Russia. Domestic products are quite popular, and they have fully justified themselves when installed in central heating systems.
Design of bimetallic radiators
General design principles
This type of radiator consists of two main parts, made of different metals.
Their inner part is made of stainless steel or, less often, copper, since these metals are highly resistant to the aggressive environment of the heated coolant. Pipes made of these materials are located vertically and horizontally, and it is through them that the coolant circulates.
The outer part of the radiators is, in fact, a casing equipped with fins, which is made of. This metal has excellent thermal conductivity and heats up quickly, giving off heat to the premises, which is why it was chosen for the outer part of the structure.
The inner and outer parts of each section of the radiator are interconnected by injection molding or spot welding. The sections are assembled into a battery using steel nipples and heat-resistant rubber gaskets designed for temperatures up to 200 degrees. However, in addition to such batteries, there are also monolithic radiators made of the same materials.
The pressure test passport pressure of bimetallic batteries may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer - this indicator depends on the material of manufacture of internal pipelines and dimensional parameters. If, during the pressure testing of certain models, a test pressure of 35 atmospheres was created, then they will be able to withstand hydraulic shocks, during which pressure drops reach 25 ÷ 30. This allows the use of such radiators in central heating systems, which sometimes do not differ in the stability of the coolant pressure.
Due to their high thermal conductivity, bimetallic devices turned out to be even more effective than the familiar cast iron batteries.
In appearance, bimetallic radiators practically do not differ from aluminum models. However, they can be distinguished by their weight, since due to the steel tube "core", bimetallic batteries are heavier than aluminum ones, by about 50%. In order not to make a mistake when choosing, it is imperative to study the certificate of conformity and other accompanying technical documentation, which must be attached to the batches of products, and is located at the seller of a specialized store.
Bimetallic and semi-bimetallic radiators
In addition to bimetallic, semi-metallic radiators are also produced. You need to know how they differ from each other, and which one is better.
- Bimetallic devices
In real bimetallic radiators, only the outer casing of the device is made of aluminum.
The process of their production consists in the fact that the finished completely steel cores, laid in special forms, are poured under pressure with aluminum, which conducts heat well, but is not resistant to aggressive media and high coolant temperatures. In bimetallic versions, aluminum does not come into contact with the liquid medium in any way and only serves as a heat exchanger. A design made according to this principle is ideal for installation in both central and autonomous heating systems.
In some models, the core is made of copper, not stainless steel - such batteries are usually used for installation only in an autonomous heating system, where special antifreezes are used as a coolant. Steel pipes, even stainless ones, do not behave so adequately with some of these antifreezes.
Water is not the only possible type of heat carrier
To dust the circuits of the autonomous heating system, in addition to water, other liquids are also used - this may be due to the peculiarities of the operation of the system or the requirements of the boiler equipment. More about - in a special publication of our portal.
- Semi-metallic batteries
For semi-metallic radiators, the inner channels are made of different metals. So, vertical pipes can be stainless steel, and horizontal - aluminum, as in conventional aluminum radiators. The opposite option also happens. In a word, they do not "pull" on full-fledged bimetallic ones.
Be careful - instead of full-fledged bimetallic radiators, there is a chance to purchase lower quality and reliable semi-bimetallic radiators This type of battery is not suitable for central heating, since the coolant there is often not of high quality and is fashionable to contain a sufficiently high concentration of alkali. In contact with aluminum, such a composition can cause corrosive processes, which, among other things, will "capture" steel elements installed in combination with aluminum. In addition, the differing thermal expansion of these metals can even lead to displacement of elements when exposed to extremely high temperatures, which is fraught with the occurrence of leaks and even more serious accidents.
Such radiators are often confused with bimetallic ones - outwardly they are generally indistinguishable. Not really versed in the intricacies, they are often preferred because of the more affordable cost. However, as can be seen from the description, they differ quite significantly in their reliability.
As a last resort, a semi-metallic version of the radiator can be installed in a stand-alone system. But nevertheless, if it is decided to make the heating of a house or apartment as reliable as possible, then it is better to refuse from semi-metallic radiators, and opt for real bimetallic samples. Be sure to consider this when buying.
Monolithic or sectional bimetallic radiators
As already noted, collapsible bimetallic radiators are produced, which consist of sections fastened together with nipples, and monolithic non-collapsible ones.
In the sectional version, each of the sections inside the horizontal pipe sections on both sides has a multidirectional thread designed for screwing in connecting nipples with sealing gaskets.
This design is the main significant disadvantage of sectional batteries, since these joints can be damaged from, for example, a low-quality coolant, which significantly reduces their service life until the next preventive intervention. In addition, leaks most often occur on the connections of the elements, under the influence of high temperatures and high pressure in the system.
To avoid these unpleasant moments, another technology for the production of bimetallic radiators was thought out. It consists in the fact that, first, a one-piece welded copper or steel collector is made, which is placed in a special shape and poured with aluminum under pressure. These bimetallic batteries are called monolithic.
And this bimetallic radiator is a monolithic assembly Both types have their own advantages and "vulnerabilities".
The lack of a collapsible circuit has already been mentioned. And the main advantage of such batteries is that if one of the sections is damaged, it will not be necessary to completely change the whole, since it is quite enough to make a bulkhead - to replace or simply remove only the failed element.
In the event of any leak in a monolithic radiator, it only remains - they have practically no maintainability.
Selected comparative characteristics of radiators of both types are shown in the table:
Cost is often the decisive criterion. The fact is that the monolithic type of radiators has a higher price than the sectional type, and this difference can be up to 20%.
When using monolithic bimetallic batteries, it will not be possible to vary the total thermal power - to reduce or increase the number of sections. Therefore, before purchasing them, it is necessary to carefully calculate what power is needed to heat a particular room. It will not be difficult to choose the right option, since monolithic bimetallic radiators are produced in different sizes, both in length and in height.
When choosing between sectional and monolithic batteries, the features of the heating system should also be taken into account. For example, if they are planned to be installed in an apartment of a high-rise building, then it is better to choose a monolithic type of devices, since the pressure in the heating system of high-rise buildings is often quite high, water hammer is not excluded. and the connecting assemblies of the sectional batteries may not withstand it and give leaks.
Selection criteria for bimetallic radiators
When choosing a specific model, in addition to the characteristics already mentioned above, there are other points that will directly affect the quality of operation of heat transfer devices and the duration of their operation.
- The design of the radiator must withstand water hammer and high pressure. This is especially important to consider when installing them in a central heating system. Be sure to pay attention to the pressure test indicator.
- The battery material must be inert to the aggressive environment of a low-quality coolant with an increased level of alkali or acidity. This factor also mainly concerns batteries installed in multi-storey buildings.
- The material of manufacture must also resist the occurrence of electrochemical corrosion.
- Radiators must be resistant to mechanical stress, that is, their outer casing must have sufficient strength. To check the quality of the aluminum (aluminum alloy) used, try to bend the rib with your fingers. In a low-quality product, the ribs bend easily, and sometimes they can even crack or break.
- Internal ribbed channels should be made of one metal, and it is better if it is high quality stainless steel.
- The wall thickness of the inner pipe must be at least 3 ÷ 3.5 mm.
- An important element in the sectional design of the battery are gaskets, since the reliability of the joints will depend on their quality and elasticity, therefore they are most often made of rubber or silicone. You can check the quality of the O-ring by bending it several times with your fingers. If the gasket is stiff and inelastic, then it will obviously not last long.
Particular attention to the quality of the nipples - they must be made of durable steel - In the sectional radiator, high-quality steel nipples should be installed, in which the internal "antennae" will not break off when the sections are twisted and the threads will not be "gobbled up". The fact that the nipple is of poor quality can be recognized by the softness of the metal of manufacture.
If this element is of poor quality, then when untwisting or twisting the battery, the hooks for the key will definitely break off, and then the nipple will have to be sawed with a grinder, and then removed from the section holes.
- The width of the front part of the radiator fin should not be less than 70 mm, since if this parameter is smaller, the heat transfer from the device is significantly reduced. It is best if the section size in the section is 80 × 80 mm - such parameters are guaranteed to give high heat transfer.
Optimum depth and width of sections - about 80 mm Some manufacturers use a marketing ploy - they reduce the price of their products by reducing the size of the sections, which significantly reduces the total thermal power of the device. Therefore, when choosing a radiator, it is advisable to have a tape measure or a ruler in your pocket so that you can check the optimum size.
- In a high-quality battery, the thickness of the protruding ribs should be at least 1 mm.
If the thickness of the fins is less than 1 mm, then this most likely indicates an insufficient quality of the product, since the strength of the radiator casing is reduced in it, as well as the heat transfer is not so high - due to the low heat capacity of too thin heat exchange plates.
But on this model, the thickness of the ribs is clearly underestimated - you should think about it ... - You also need to know that if a manufacturer saves on high-quality nipples and gaskets, this means that the entire product, with a probability close to 100%, is not of high quality, and it is better to abandon it right away.
- It is not worth buying devices for which the manufacturer gives a warranty period of only 1 ÷ 2 years, despite the fact that the service life of bimetallic sectional batteries is 25-30 years, and monolithic ones - even about 50. Such a small guarantee suggests that the manufacturer himself is not confident in his products.
Advantages and disadvantages of bimetallic radiators
Positive their qualities include the following:
- Bimetallic radiators fit perfectly into modern interiors of both residential and office premises.
- This type of radiator is often available in different colors. If the desired color is not found, then self-staining is allowed. For this process, special heat-resistant paint compositions are used that can withstand temperatures up to 150 degrees.
- Smooth surfaces and rounded corners make these radiators safe enough from the point of view of the possibility of injury, and therefore suitable for installation in children's rooms.
- The advantage is a fairly long guaranteed service life, subject to the selection of high-quality radiators and their correct operation.
- Bimetallic radiators can be installed in any heating system, even with a low-quality coolant.
- This type of device, unlike other modern radiators, is capable of withstanding high intra-system pressure and temperatures up to 130 degrees.
- One of the key advantages of such batteries is their very high heat dissipation.
- Such devices, as a rule, are equipped with a thermostat, which allows you to set the desired temperature for their heating. Its correction occurs almost immediately, due to the small cross-section of the channels.
- The number of radiator sections for each specific room can be easily calculated independently using the mathematical formula that will be given below. Correct calculation will help to avoid unnecessary costs when buying radiators, their installation and further operation.