• What can be cooked from squid: quick and tasty

    When the accumulator is filled with water, the pressure in it and in the system is equalized. When you open any tap, fluid is consumed and it falls. When the lower threshold value is reached, the pump is automatically switched on (by a signal from the corresponding relay). The pressure rises, and the flask is filled with the missing amount of water. This process characterized by dynamics, and at competent setting the accumulator, the pressure in the system remains unchanged.

    But provided that the frequency is observed Maintenance device. This mainly concerns the timely bleeding of excess air accumulated in the tank. Conducting frequency technological operation depends on the capacity of the accumulator and the features of the water supply scheme. General recommendations are indicated in the product passport.

    Installing a hydraulic accumulator

    It is mounted according to several typical schemes, depending on the characteristics of the system.

    For submersible pump

    Even the smallest flow of water initiates the activation of the pumping device. Therefore, the accumulator must be installed in the circuit after the check valve. This allows you to optimize the operation of the pump and ensure its guaranteed resource.

    For station

    Essentially the same pump with additional equipment. Some models are not initially equipped with a hydraulic accumulator, so it is purchased separately and installed independently. In this scheme, the main task of the GA is to protect the system from pressure surges, which is observed when the pump is started. Connection - at the section of the line up to the pumping device.

    For the booster station

    Such schemes are implemented with a large and constant water consumption. As a rule, the pumping device includes at least two pumps working in turn. As can be seen in the diagram, the accumulator is connected to the pipe supplying the consumer with water.

    For DHW system

    With this activation, the accumulator performs the function of an expansion tank. If the device is not installed, the flow from the shower head will be unstable due to the change in pressure. Plumbing will also begin to work incorrectly, and this reduces its resource and leads to frequent breakdowns.

    Features of mounting a hydraulic accumulator

    • Fastening is made on a solid basis, and always with the use of shock absorbers. For example, rubber gaskets. We must not forget that GA is constantly in dynamics, and rigid fixation will lead to destruction of the surface material or breakage of fasteners. It is impossible to install the device directly on the water supply pipe, since in addition to vibration, the weight of the accumulator is added along with the liquid. Such installation is guaranteed to lead to leaks or rupture of connections.
    • To connect the accumulator with the pipeline, you must use a flexible hose. The reason is stated above.
    • The filling of the tank with water is done gradually, with a small pressure. This is necessary in order to eliminate the risk of damage to the flask if it cakes - with a sharp jump in pressure, the rubber goods may not have time to straighten out, and it is easy to break it.
    • The place for installing the accumulator is selected taking into account the possibility of quick access to the device, its visual inspection from all sides and maintenance work (replacement).
    • If the GA is small in tank volume (up to 50 liters), then shut-off valves (valve, tee) are mounted to bleed air bubbles - such devices are not equipped with pneumatic valves. This means that it is necessary to provide for where and how to drain (drain) water from the container.

    The pressure setting in the air compartment is made based on the design parameters of the water supply system and the manufacturer's recommendations. You only need a pump (if necessary), a pressure gauge (you can use a car) and wrenches. But it is better to entrust all the required calculations to a professional - the slightest mistake will lead to system malfunctions with all that it implies.

    Calculation of GA capacity

    Choosing a hydraulic accumulator, focusing on the volume of the tank, is a losing business. There is such a concept - the capacity of the container. Much here depends on the pressure in the air compartment, and often in a HA with a capacity of 200 liters, in fact, there is only a third of water. The table shows how the difference between the maximum and minimum pressure values, to which the relay is adjusted, affects the real volume.

    To calculate, you can use the formula:

    V = K x Amax x (Pmax + 1) x (Pmin +1) / (Pmax- Pmin) x (Pb + 1)

    • Amax - water consumption (l / min).
    • Pmax and Pmin (bar) - pressure threshold values ​​at which the pump is switched off / on.
    • K - coefficient determined by the total capacity of the pumping equipment (if several products are installed in the system).
    • Pb (bar) - pressure in the air compartment of the accumulator tank.

    The capacity for accumulating liquid in the water supply system is the most important element after the pump, so its choice must be taken seriously. There are many different options execution of this unit, so that people can conveniently use the water supply. Selection criteria are based not only on the volume of the accumulator, but also on the method of attachment, internal structure.

    Purpose of the accumulator

    Hydraulic accumulators are used in heating systems, cold and hot water supply

    The main function of the accumulator is to accumulate liquid and maintain pressure in the water supply system. For this, this unit is equipped with a pressure gauge and a relay that maintain a certain interval, at the extreme points of which the pump is automatically turned on and off.

    The hydraulic tank and the expansion tank should not be confused. The second is needed in the heating system to compensate for losses during evaporation of hot liquid, as well as to take on excess air that occurs when water is heated in a boiler.

    Water hammer is a dangerous phenomenon for plastic pipes... It arises when the liquid moves on the opposite side: the abrupt closure of the valve stops the flow, and it begins to move in the opposite direction, colliding with a wave coming from the pump. At a certain point, too much liquid accumulates in the pipe, which is capable of breaking plastic and even metal. The accumulator restrains the formation of water hammer, since it is a buffer between the pump and the point of water consumption.

    If the plumbing system of a private house is not equipped storage capacity This means that a powerful submersible pump or station will turn on every time someone upstairs opens a tap. The pump resource is limited by the number of on-off cycles, and also has an indicator - the maximum permissible frequency of switching on. On average, the equipment should be turned on 5 times per hour. Constant operation of the unit affects the details much less than frequent switching on. The hydraulic accumulator, due to the liquid reserve, allows to reduce the response rate by 2 - 3 times, therefore, its other function is to protect the electrical part of the pumping equipment from wear and tear.

    If the electricity is suddenly turned off, residents can continue to use the water in the house as long as the pressure in the hydraulic tank is maintained. The principle of operation of a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems is based on the balance of water and air inside the tank.

    There are cases when a hydraulic accumulator is not only unnecessary, but can even harm the pump. It is about the constant operation of pumping equipment when watering the garden. In this case, the tank cannot be installed, since the equipment will often turn on and off. When watering, it is better if it works in a constant mode - this way the engine overheats and wears out less.

    Residents can decide for themselves whether to install the tank or not, if the pump is equipped with a soft start system that prevents water hammer.

    Application area

    The accumulator can be installed not only in a private house, but also in a high-rise building, so that when the water is turned off in the city, residents have a small supply. This allows you to maintain pressure and use household appliances - a washing machine or dishwasher.

    A hydraulic accumulator with a membrane resistant to hot temperatures is used in a hot water supply system as an expansion tank, so when buying, you need to clarify what function it will perform. A membrane for cold drinking water will not withstand boiling water. Rubber is also different - in the hot water supply it is technical, in the water supply system it is food grade. The hydraulic tanks are connected to a boiler and a double-circuit boiler.

    In addition to household use, HA is used in many areas of industry, for example, in the engineering industry.

    Types of storage tanks

    Membrane storage

    For domestic needs, two types of tanks are used:

    • Membrane. The rubber is secured in a retaining ring. In such a tank, the liquid comes into contact with the walls, but only in one half of the accumulator. The second half is occupied by the air mixture, which can be vented or pumped in as needed.
    • Balloon. The liquid enters a rubber bulb attached to the neck at the entrance to the tank. The water does not come into contact with the walls and does not affect the metal. On the other hand, there is a possibility of pear bursting and liquid leakage through the nipple. In such a model, the membrane can be replaced.

    There is also a version without a membrane, but for use in a private house in a water supply system, such a hydroaccumulator device is inconvenient. The air will mix in the tank and leave with the water, so it will have to be constantly monitored and pumped in. This should be done daily. Membraneless tanks are suitable for storing water for irrigation, outdoor showers.

    Models of accumulators are produced in vertical and horizontal design. This is for convenience only. For example, in small room bathroom GA can only be installed under the ceiling in a horizontal position by attaching it to the wall. If the technical room is located in the basement, it is better to buy a hydraulic tank with legs and screw it to concrete floor bolts.

    Principle of operation

    Bladder accumulator

    The principle of operation of the GA is based on a change in pressure inside. This happens thanks to additional equipment - a pressure gauge and a relay. The incoming water flow fills the rubber bulb until the pressure rises to the specified level. Then the sensor is triggered and the pump turns off automatically. In the house, a tap is turned on and the liquid is used for household purposes until the pressure drops to the lower indicated level. The sensor is again triggered and the pumping equipment is turned on. This is how a hydraulic accumulator works in a water supply system.

    When the hydraulic tank is connected to the heating system, it is triggered when the pressure in the boiler rises due to steam during heating. Excess steam is sent to the accumulator, from where it can be vented if necessary. The heating system is losing fluid and pressure drops. In this case, the GA gives a signal to replenish the water so that the quality of heating does not decrease.

    Accumulator device

    The body is made of various materials - durable plastic, metal or of stainless steel... Stainless steel is more expensive, so there are fewer such models on sale. Plastic is also not recommended - it can crack on impact.

    The membrane is made of food grade rubber if it is intended for storing drinking water. There is also technical rubber if it is designed for other uses. Temperature conditions membranes matter: in hot water systems, a heat-resistant one is installed, for cold water - an ordinary one. This must be taken into account when purchasing a replacement membrane.

    A pressure gauge is a device for measuring and regulating pressure. Relay - a sensor that is triggered when the lower or upper limit of air compression is reached.

    You can bleed air or pump in a new portion through the valve using a bicycle or car pump.

    A coarse filter is installed in the housing in case the water contains solid fractions - sand or stones. They can build up in the membrane and damage it. The filter is placed in front of the entrance to the rubber bulb.

    Advantages and disadvantages of the hydraulic tank

    Pneumatic accumulators have the following advantages:

    • affordable cost;
    • possibility self-connection to the system;
    • simple device;
    • replaceable membrane;
    • the ability to connect to any type of pump, as well as install several tanks in parallel, so that the operation of the water supply system does not stop in the event of a breakdown of one of the accumulators;
    • the ability to select the GA of the required volume, but it must be borne in mind that the volume indicated in the instructions is the total number, the water in it will be 2/3 less;
    • you can independently disassemble the structure and find a breakdown, as well as repair and replace parts without calling the master at home.

    Among the disadvantages is the need for separate room if the tank is large and connected to a surface pump. Such nodes are usually very noisy, so they are isolated from living quarters. When purchasing an inexpensive hydraulic tank, frequent repairs may be required, which entails additional costs.

    Criterias of choice

    First of all, it is necessary to decide what functions the hydroaccumulator will perform. Several completely different models may be needed - for plumbing, hot water supply and heating. In this case, it is necessary to calculate the required volume of each. Here you cannot do without a specialist who will help you decide.

    The next criterion is budget. Imported models are more expensive, but they are made of high quality materials from durable materials, the service life of which is longer. If you choose among domestic GAs, you need to select not the cheapest ones, since they will work longer.

    Having decided on the functions and budget, you can proceed to the technical part. Much depends on the quality of the wellbore fluid. If the source does not have a filter on the casing, it is necessary to buy a model of a hydraulic tank with a filter so as not to clog the water supply system.

    You should calculate the amount of fluid consumed by all family members per day and find out how much tank volume you need to install. You should provide a margin in case you need to purchase any household appliances or cut down a bathhouse. For a family of 4 living in the house, a 50 liter tank is needed. At the same time, the house has Washer, shower, bathroom and faucet in the kitchen. A specialist can calculate the optimal volume of HA using a special formula, which includes the maximum allowable number of inclusions, indicators of lower and upper pressure, maximum water consumption per hour.

    It should be borne in mind that unused liquid stagnates and a sludge smell may appear in it, therefore, a tank that is too large is not needed.

    Installation and connection

    Wiring diagram for deep well pump

    You can use your own skills and experience to install. All connection stages are described in the instructions. The upper and lower pressure thresholds are preset. You can leave the factory settings, at which the lower limit is 4 bar, the upper limit is 8 bar. If the system does not work correctly, the settings are changed by twisting the large and small springs.

    The tank is placed after the pump, connected using a fitting with three and five inputs. Two of them are for the relay and pressure gauge, the rest for pipes and flexible hoses to reduce vibration transmitted from the pump.

    Before starting, using a pressure gauge, check the pressure of the air mixture inside again. Then you can turn on the system. If the relay operates correctly, the installation process is complete and the water supply can be operated.

    Features of operation

    During the operation of the accumulator, the following rules must be observed:

    • check the pressure 2 times a year, if necessary - more often, pumping a new portion or bleeding off excess;
    • watch for leaks - they may indicate a rupture of the rubber membrane and the need for replacement;
    • monitor the operation of the pump - its frequent activation also indicates that the accumulator is not working properly due to settings or breakdowns.

    The less often the pump is turned on, the better. The maximum number of starts should not exceed 30 times per hour.

    If it turns out that one hydraulic tank is not enough, you can build in one more or even more. In this case, the system will function if any of them breaks.

    Service

    Replaceable membrane for the accumulator

    The most weakness tank - rubber membrane. In the process of work, it constantly stretches and contracts. If the air pressure inside is small, the rubber will stretch more, eventually causing it to burst. Then you have to buy a new one and change it yourself.

    If the diaphragm ruptures, the pressure gauge will show sharp jumps and drops in pressure. When you press on the nipple, instead of air, water will flow from there. This means that there is no air left there, and the entire container is filled with liquid. Air mixed with water will come out of the tap in the house.

    When replacing the rubber, make sure that its neck is tightly and evenly laid and fixed with a flange. If the edge slips off, water will leak out and the work will have to be done again.

    Do not use sealant at the joints between metal and rubber. This leads to slipping and leaks due to a loose fit of parts.

    Common malfunctions include nipple breakage when it does not close and releases air. The part can be purchased from a service center and replaced by yourself.

    Prices for hydraulic tanks for water supply systems vary greatly depending on the manufacturer's brand. German, Italian, Swedish manufacturers have been working on the Russian market for a long time, supplying high-quality equipment. Domestic factories compete for them, the products of which do not differ in quality, but are somewhat lower in cost. You should not buy cheap goods made in China, as they are mostly unrepairable and do not last long. No spare parts are supplied for them, so the plumbing system can be idle for a long time.

    Types of hydraulic tanks for water separation by location and other parameters

    We will present this section in tabular form for ease of understanding:

    SeparationDesignationPeculiarities
    Location typeHorizontalThe volume of such reservoirs is larger. The vertical arrangement allows the installation of an air bleed valve from above. This makes maintenance easier. The installation is limited only by the volume of the room.
    VerticalCompact versions, in which a valve is installed for air relief. The disadvantage is that some models have to completely drain the water to release air, which is not economical.
    Energy accumulationPneumatic accumulationDiaphragm, balloon or piston. The problem arises when the baffle is worn out - expensive and time-consuming repairs are required.
    Balloon or pearMost popular. When the pear is worn out, it changes to a new one on its own, without the involvement of professionals.
    Mechanical storageFreight or spring. The work is based on kinetic energy. Quite voluminous, they work autonomously.

    How to choose the volume of the tank

    The volume of the tank can be chosen arbitrarily. There are no requirements or restrictions. The larger the volume of the tank, the more water you will have in case of shutdown and the less often the pump will turn on.

    When choosing a volume, it is worth remembering that the volume that is in the passport is the size of the entire container. There will be almost half the water in it. The second thing to keep in mind is the overall dimensions of the container. A 100 liter tank is a decent one - about 850 mm high and 450 mm in diameter. For her and the harness, you will need to find a place somewhere. Somewhere - this is in the room where the pipe comes from the pump. Usually all the equipment is installed there.

    If, in order to choose the volume of the accumulator, you need at least some guidelines, calculate the average flow rate from each draw-off point (there are special tables or you can look in the passport for household appliances). Summarize all this data. Get the possible expense if all consumers work at the same time. Then figure out how many and what devices can work at the same time, count how much water will leave in this case in a minute. Most likely by this time you will have already come to some kind of decision.

    Selection of accumulator

    The volume of the selected accumulator tank must be greater than or equal to the volume obtained as a result of the calculation. Negative consequences from overestimating the volume of the accumulator, in excess of calculated value- no, no matter how much it is exceeded.

    When choosing a hydraulic accumulator, one should take into account its temperature and strength characteristics. The maximum pressure of the tank must be greater than or equal to the maximum pressure at the point of its connection.

    If the installation of hydroaccumulators is envisaged in the room, then it should be noted that tanks with a diameter of more than 750 mm and a height of more than 1.5 m may not pass through doorway, and to move them will require a means of mechanization. In this case, it is better to give preference to not one, but several tanks, accumulators of smaller capacity.

    When choosing a hydraulic accumulator, it should be remembered that the volume of water stored in it averages 40-50% of the volume of the tank.

    Tank volume main selection criterion

    Most important question- how to choose the volume of the accumulator for water supply systems. To answer it, you need to bring together a lot of data. This is the performance of the pump, and the equipment of the house with water-consuming equipment, and the number of people permanently living in the house, and much more.

    But first of all, you need to decide whether you need this tank only to stabilize the operation of the system as a whole, or if there is a need for a supply of water in case of a power outage.

    Internal cylinders of different sizes

    If the house is small and equipped only with a washbasin, toilet, shower and watering tap, but you do not live in it all the time, you do not need to make complex calculations. It is enough to buy a tank with a volume of 24-50 liters, it will be enough for the system to work normally and be protected from water hammer.

    In the case of country house for permanent residence families equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable life, it is advisable to approach the issue more responsibly. Here are some ways in which you can determine the size of your accumulator.

    According to pump characteristics

    The parameters affecting the choice of the volume of the tank are the performance and power of the pump, as well as the recommended number of cycles of its on / off.

    • The higher the power of the unit, the larger the volume of the hydraulic tank must be.
    • The powerful pump pumps water quickly and quickly turns off if the volume of the tank is small.
    • Sufficient volume will reduce the number of intermittent starts, thereby extending the life of the electric motor.

    To calculate, you need to determine the approximate water consumption per hour. For this, a table is compiled, which lists all devices that consume water, their number and consumption rates. For example:

    Table for determining the maximum water flow

    Since it is almost impossible to use all devices at the same time, a correction factor of 0.5 is used to determine the actual flow rate. As a result, we get that on average you spend 75 liters of water per minute.

    • Let's say the capacity is 80 l / min or 4800 l / h.
    • And during peak hours you need 4500 l / h.
    • With non-stop operation of the pump, its power is quite enough, but it is unlikely that it will work for a long time in such extreme conditions... And if it turns on more often 20-30 times per hour, then its resource will run out even faster.
    • Therefore, a hydraulic tank is needed, the volume of which will allow you to turn off the equipment and give it a break. At the indicated frequency of cycles, the water supply should be at least 70-80 liters. This will allow the pump to be idle for one minute out of every two by pre-filling the reservoir.

    To use this formula, you need to know the settings of the pressure switch that turns the pump on and off. The following picture will help you figure it out:

    Changes in pressure in the accumulator when the pump is turned on and off

    • 1 - initial pressure Pair (with the pump off);
    • 2 - water entering the tank when the pump is turned on;
    • 3 - reaching the maximum pressure Pmax and turning off the pump;
    • 4 - water consumption when the pump is off. When the pressure reaches the minimum Pmin, the pump is switched on.

    The formula looks like this:

    • V = K x A x ((Pmax + 1) x (Pmin +1)) / (Pmax - Pmin) x (Pair + 1), where
    • A is the estimated water consumption (l / min);
    • K - correction factor from the table, determined depending on the pump power.

    Table for determining the correction factor

    You must set the values ​​of the minimum (starting) and maximum (turning off) pressure on the relay yourself, depending on what pressure you need in the system. It is determined by the farthest from the accumulator, and the highest draw-off point.

    Approximate ratios of pressure switch settings

    To adjust the pressure switch, you need to know how to pump a hydraulic accumulator for water supply systems with air, or bleed off the excess. This will require car pump, which is connected to the tank through a spool.

    The volume can now be calculated. Let's take as an example:

    • A = 75 l / min;
    • Pump power 1.5 kW, respectively K = 0.25;
    • Pmax = 4.0 bar;
    • Pmin = 2.5 bar;
    • Air = 2.3 bar.

    We get V = 66.3 liters. The closest standard accumulators in terms of volume have a volume of 60 and 80 liters. We choose the one that is larger.

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    Principle of operation

    The storage tank begins to accumulate excess heat in the upper part of the tank after the room is fully heated. As it cools, the accumulator gradually releases heat into the heating system.

    The capacity of the accumulator depends on how many times a solid fuel boiler will be loaded during the day.

    The operation of the storage tank is based on the use of high heat capacity of water, which, when cooled by 1 ° C, releases several times more heat to heat 1 m 2 of the room.

    To calculate the volume of the storage tank, the ratio is used - 25 - 30 liters of capacity per 1 kW of power of a solid fuel boiler.

    For example, for a 20 kW boiler, the volume of the tank will be from 500 to 600 liters.

    Why do you need a hydraulic accumulator in the heating system, how to choose and configure

    The hydroaccumulator is an integral part for autonomous water supply and heating systems.

    Without this device, it is difficult to ensure an uninterrupted supply of fluid from wells and boreholes.

    Therefore, these mechanisms are very popular among summer residents and owners of private houses, this unit often comes complete with a pump, but it can be bought and installed separately.

    The installation is most often used for water supply needs.

    But no less relevant is the use of a hydraulic accumulator for heating systems (how to expel an airlock).

    This mechanism serves to take on the excess volume of the liquid substance and, thereby, reduce the excess pressure in the line, and, if necessary, return water back to the system in order to maintain the optimal pressure of the working medium.

    In fact, there are three goals, and they are all interconnected:

    • The ability to accumulate the volume of liquid necessary for the normal operation of the heating system.
    • By accumulating water, commandeer excess pressure.
    • Suppression of water hammer in the heating system (how to bleed air through the Mayevsky tap is written here). It is for this reason that even the smallest devices have a rather large thread.

    Thanks to the design capabilities of the accumulator (expansion tank), it is possible, in automatic mode, to normalize the pressure of the coolant in case of a change in temperature.

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    Role in the heating system

    The main tasks of the accumulator:

    • accumulation of "surplus" of the coolant in itself during its expansion;
    • air removal;
    • replenishment of the volume in case of possible leaks or a drop in the water level (antifreeze).

    There are two types of tanks - open and closed. The second option is used in most modern heating systems. This is a completely sealed hydraulic accumulator with a membrane or a pear (it is used in large containers).

    Hydraulic accumulators are installed only for heating with circulation pump as this system is characterized by high working pressure.

    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 way the pump is installed.

    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 pumping equipment; in some cases, for this, an internal thread is made on the cover.

    For connection, a fitting of the required diameter with an external thread is used. After installing the valve, a supply water pipe of the required length is supplied to it.

    The length is determined quite simply: the end of the rope with a sinker is lowered into the hydraulic structure and a mark is made for the upper point of the structure. Then the rope rises and the length is measured from the sinker to the top point. From the finished value, the height from the point to the place where the pipe from the hydraulic structure is laid into the ground is subtracted, as well as the length of the pumping equipment with a valve. The optimal pipe length is when the equipment rises above the bottom of a well or well to a height of 35 cm.

    The device of hydroaccumulators for water supply of private houses

    This unit consists of two parts - the hydraulic tank itself and a membrane dividing 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 vented. Smaller devices are equipped with a special valve or tap for this purpose.

    The membrane for the 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.

    Sometimes the pear inside the tank bursts - in this case, replacement is required

    What should be the pressure in the accumulator

    In one part of the accumulator there is compressed air, in the second water is pumped. The air in the tank is under pressure - factory settings - 1.5 atm. This pressure does not depend on the volume - it is the same on both a 24-liter tank and a 150-liter tank. More or less can be the maximum permissible maximum pressure, but it does not depend on the volume, but on the membrane and is indicated in the technical specifications.

    Pre-check and pressure correction

    Before connecting the accumulator to the system, it is advisable to check the pressure in it. The settings of the pressure switch depend on this indicator, and during transportation and storage, the pressure could drop, so control is very desirable. You can control the pressure in the gyro tank using a pressure gauge connected to a special inlet in the upper part of the tank (capacity from 100 liters and more) or installed in the lower part of it as one of the strapping parts. Temporarily, for monitoring, you can connect a car pressure gauge. His error is usually small and it is convenient for them to work. If this is not the case, you can use the standard one for water pipes, but they usually do not differ in accuracy.

    If necessary, the pressure in the accumulator can be increased or decreased. There is a nipple for this at the top of the tank. A car or bicycle pump is connected through the nipple and, if necessary, the pressure is increased. If it needs to be vented, bend the valve of the nipple with some thin object, releasing the air.

    What air pressure should be

    So should the pressure in the accumulator be the same? For normal work household appliances a pressure of 1.4-2.8 atm is required. To prevent the tank membrane from breaking, the pressure in the system should be slightly higher than the tank pressure - by 0.1-0.2 atm. If the pressure in the tank is 1.5 atm, then the pressure in the system should not be lower than 1.6 atm. This value is set on the water pressure switch, which works in tandem with a hydraulic accumulator. These are the optimal settings for a small one-story house.

    If the house is two-story, you will have to increase the pressure. There is a formula for calculating the pressure in the hydraulic tank:

    Vatm. = (Hmax + 6) / 10

    Where Hmax is the height of the highest draw-off point. Most often it is a shower. You measure (calculate) at what height its watering can is relative to the accumulator, substitute it in the formula, you get the pressure that should be in the tank.

    If a jacuzzi is installed in the house, everything is more complicated. We'll have to select it empirically - changing the relay settings and observing the operation of the water points and household appliances. But at the same time, the working pressure should not be more than the maximum allowable for other household appliances and plumbing fixtures (indicated in the technical specifications).

    What is a hydraulic accumulator

    A hydraulic tank for water is a special sealed device made of metal with an internal elastic membrane, designed to maintain a constantly stable pressure in the water supply system.

    In addition, the device is used to solve the following tasks:

    1. Protection of pumping equipment from wear. The pump will turn on when the water tap is opened if the accumulator tank is completely empty. This will increase the number of unused pump starts and extend pump life.
    2. Maintaining constant pressure in the water supply system, preventing pressure drops and water hammer while using several water intake points at the same time.
    3. Maintaining an optimal supply of liquid in the water supply system, which ensures the supply of water in conditions of frequent power outages.

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    Installation of a heating accumulator

    The expansion vessel should only be installed in a heated room. If the weight of the accumulator exceeds 30 kilograms, then it is installed on a special stand. The location for placing the expander must be easily accessible for maintenance.

    Heating and water supply systems

    The insert is made into the pipes only on the return line. The tie-in is made between the final radiator, close to the boiler. A check valve and a pressure gauge are installed in front of the expansion tank to constantly measure the pressure in the system.

    It is best to choose a model with a replaceable diaphragm, which can be easily replaced if it breaks down. If possible and desired, the accumulator can be installed without outside help, but if you are not sure or do not want to mess around for a long time, you can hire a specialist. However, in this case, you will not be able to save.

    Heat storage in a solar heating system

    The need to improve the heating system of their own home forces owners to constantly search useful ideas, additional devices that allow you to save fuel, evenly distribute heat inside the house, and increase the heat transfer of radiators.

    The problem of even distribution of heat is especially acute in houses with solid fuel boilers... In them, it is impossible to instantly stop the process of fuel combustion and the supply of heat to the system pipeline. If you turn off the supply tap, hot water accumulating at the inlet can reach the boiling point and damage part of the pipeline. You can distribute the number of kindling over time. Such solutions are labor intensive and ineffective. In this case, it is advisable to use a heat accumulator, which will ensure an even distribution of heat throughout the house, exclude temperature drops.

    In houses where a heat accumulator is built in, heat loss is significantly reduced.

    A hydroaccumulator is a capacity that accumulates heat produced by a solid fuel boiler, storing it for a long time. The device works like a thermos.

    The storage tank consists of the following components:

    • A container made of steel or stainless steel, large (rectangular or round);
    • Four nozzles inside the tank, spaced apart in height. One is the outlet from the heater to the tank, and the other is the inlet of the heating system, the same at the bottom;
    • A safety valve is built into the accumulator at the top;
    • Outside, the container is insulated with a thick layer of insulating material.

    The buffer tank accumulates the heated coolant inside, maintains heat in the house for up to two days after the heating system is turned off.

    When installing a hydraulic accumulator, it is necessary to arrange a piping loop between it and the boiler, including:

    • Circulation pump;
    • Thermo-transfer valve;
    • Expansion tank.

    The storage tank must be insulated, otherwise the generated heat will heat up the room where the accumulator is located.

    The storage tank works like this:

    • From the solid fuel boiler, heated water flows to the upper branch pipe;
    • The circulating pump, when working, expels cold water from the bottom of the heat accumulator into a solid fuel boiler until the entire tank is filled with hot water;
    • The next step is to submit hot water from the accumulator tank to the heating system. With the help of a circulation pump, cooled water is distilled from the heating system to the tank, and from the tank to the system.

    How to connect

    The tank has two technical openings: a branch pipe for connection to the system and an opening on the opposite side, equipped with a valve for relieving excess pressure in the gas (air) chamber.

    At the initial stage of installation, it is necessary to choose the right installation location. It is recommended to cut the accumulator into the water return pipe between the last battery and the heating boiler. Moreover, the closer the tank is to the boiler, the better it is for the stable operation of the system - there will be no sudden pressure drops.

    A check valve and a pressure gauge must be installed in front of the tank to monitor the pressure indicators. The valve has the same task as a hydraulic accumulator. This unit compensates for pressure surges, but it is designed for heavy loads.

    It is important that free access to the tank is provided - in some cases, the owners will have to independently adjust the air chamber valve. It is forbidden to place shut-off valves on the section of the line between the accumulator and the circulation pump! The armature will violate the parameters of the hydraulic resistance

    It is forbidden to place shut-off valves on the section of the line between the accumulator and the circulation pump! The armature will violate the parameters of the hydraulic resistance.

    Calculation of the accumulator

    In water supply systems, with the help of a hydraulic accumulator, a lot of problems are solved, and the calculation for each of the cases is performed according to different methods. The above algorithm for calculating the accumulator allows you to select tanks for solving the two most popular problems and determines the initial pressure of the gas space, the pressure on and off the pump.

    The first option for calculating the accumulator is with the priority of the pump activation frequency. In systems with booster stations, borehole and booster pumps, a hydraulic accumulator tank is needed to reduce the frequency of pump activation.

    Water is an incompressible liquid, therefore, even a short-term opening of one water taps in apartment building, may cause the pump to turn on. Frequent switching on of the pump leads to its rapid wear and tear and failure.

    The switching frequency is related to the electrical power of the pump, so, for example, pumps with a power of more than 8 kW are recommended to be switched on no more than 10 times per hour, pumps whose power is less than 5 kW - no more than 20 times per hour, and pumps whose power falls within the range from 5 to 10 kW no more than 15 times per hour. This dependence is the basis of the above calculation algorithm.

    In addition to the pump power, many more factors affect the permissible switching frequency, for example, the greater the mass of moving parts, the lower the permissible switching frequency

    Therefore, pay attention to the correspondence between the switching frequency values ​​obtained as a result of the selection of the accumulator and the optimal frequency for the previously selected pump, and, if necessary, repeat the calculation of the tank

    The second option for calculating the accumulator is with the priority of the stored volume of water. Recommended for systems in which interruption of the water supply is not allowed, but there are interruptions in the supply of electricity or water from the centralized water supply systems.

    Conclusions and useful video on the topic

    This video describes in detail the principle of operation of a hydraulic accumulator:

    To calculate the volume of the accumulator, you can use special calculator programs. One of these options is presented in the following video:

    Replacing the hydraulic tank membrane is not too difficult. It is covered in detail in this video:

    A hydraulic accumulator is an important part of a modern autonomous water supply system. Of course, this device is more complicated and more expensive than a regular one. storage tank.

    But all the costs are fully paid off, since in the presence of a hydraulic tank, the quality of tap water is better, and the service life of the pumping equipment increases significantly. Finally, it is simply convenient, because there is always a stable water pressure in the water supply system, which is taken care of by reliable automation.

    Please write in the block form below. Ask questions about points of interest in the information provided, share useful information, post photos and tips. Perhaps your recommendations will be useful to site visitors.

    In order to prevent the pump from turning on every time the tap is opened, a hydraulic accumulator is installed in the system. It contains a certain volume of water, sufficient for a small consumption. This allows you to practically get rid of short-term pump starts. Installing a hydraulic accumulator is a simple procedure, but a certain number of devices will be required - at least - a pressure switch, and it is also desirable to have a pressure gauge and an air vent.

    Functions, purpose, types

    Installation site - in a pit or in a house

    In the water supply system of a private house without a hydraulic accumulator, the pump turns on whenever there is a water flow somewhere. These frequent inclusions lead to wear and tear on the equipment. And not only the pump, but the entire system as a whole. After all, every time there is an abrupt increase in pressure, and this is a water hammer. To reduce the amount of pump activation and smooth out water hammer, a hydraulic accumulator is used. The same device is called an expansion or membrane tank, a hydraulic tank.

    Appointment

    One of the functions of accumulators is to smooth out water hammer, we found out. But there are others:


    It is not surprising that in most private water supply systems this device is present - there are many advantages from its use.

    Views

    The accumulator is a sheet metal tank divided into two parts by an elastic membrane. The membrane is of two types - a diaphragm and a balloon (pear). The diaphragm is fastened across the tank, the balloon in the form of a pear is fixed at the inlet around the inlet pipe.

    By design, they are of three types:

    • for cold water;
    • for hot water;
    • for heating systems.

    Heating tanks are painted red, water tanks are blue. Expansion tanks for heating are usually smaller and more low price... This is due to the material of the membrane - for water supply, it must be neutral, because the water in the pipeline is potable.

    According to the type of location, accumulators are horizontal and vertical. The vertical ones are equipped with legs, some models have plates for hanging on the wall. It is the models that are elongated upwards that are more often used in the independent creation of water supply systems in a private house - they occupy less space... The connection of this type of accumulator is standard - through a 1-inch outlet.

    Horizontal models are usually equipped with pumping stations with surface-type pumps. Then the pump is placed on top of the container. It turns out compactly.

    Principle of operation

    Radial diaphragms (in the form of a plate) are mainly used in gyro-accumulators for heating systems. For water supply, a rubber bulb is mainly installed inside. How does such a system work? While there is only air inside, the pressure inside the standard is that which is set at the factory (1.5 atm) or which you set yourself. The pump turns on, starts pumping water into the tank, the pear begins to increase in size. The water gradually fills an increasing volume, more and more compressing the air that is between the tank wall and the membrane. Upon reaching a certain pressure (usually for one-story houses this is 2.8 - 3 atm), the pump is turned off, the pressure in the system stabilizes. When you open a tap or another flow of water, it comes from the accumulator. It flows until the pressure in the tank drops below a certain mark (usually about 1.6-1.8 atm). Then the pump turns on, the cycle repeats again.

    If the flow rate is large and constant - you type a bathroom, for example, - the pump pumps water in transit, without pumping it into the tank. The tank starts to fill up after all the taps are closed.

    The water pressure switch is responsible for turning the pump on and off at a certain pressure. In most hydraulic accumulator piping schemes, this device is present - such a system works in optimal mode... We will consider the connection of the accumulator a little lower, but for now let's talk about the tank itself and its parameters.

    Large tanks

    The internal structure of accumulators with a volume of 100 liters and above is slightly different. The pear differs - it is attached to the body both above and below. With such a structure, it becomes possible to fight the air that is present in the water. For this, there is an outlet in the upper part, into which a valve for automatic air release can be connected.

    How to choose the volume of the tank

    The volume of the tank can be chosen arbitrarily. There are no requirements or restrictions. The larger the volume of the tank, the more water you will have in case of shutdown and the less often the pump will turn on.

    When choosing a volume, it is worth remembering that the volume that is in the passport is the size of the entire container. There will be almost half the water in it. The second thing to keep in mind is the overall dimensions of the container. A 100 liter tank is a decent one - about 850 mm high and 450 mm in diameter. For her and the harness, you will need to find a place somewhere. Somewhere - this is in the room where the pipe comes from the pump. Usually all the equipment is installed there.

    If, in order to choose the volume of the accumulator, you need at least some guidelines, calculate the average flow rate from each draw-off point (there are special tables or you can look in the passport for household appliances). Summarize all this data. Get the possible expense if all consumers work at the same time. Then figure out how many and what devices can work at the same time, count how much water will leave in this case in a minute. Most likely by this time you will have already come to some kind of decision.

    To make it a little easier, let's say that the volume of a hydraulic tank of 25 liters is enough to meet the needs of two people. It will ensure the normal functioning of a very small system: a tap, a sink and a small one. In the presence of other household appliances, the capacity must be increased. The good news is that if you decide that the existing reservoir is not enough for you, you can always install an additional one.

    What should be the pressure in the accumulator

    In one part of the accumulator there is compressed air, in the second water is pumped. The air in the tank is under pressure - factory settings - 1.5 atm. This pressure does not depend on the volume - it is the same on both a 24-liter tank and a 150-liter tank. More or less can be the maximum permissible maximum pressure, but it does not depend on the volume, but on the membrane and is indicated in the technical specifications.

    Pre-check and pressure correction

    Before connecting the accumulator to the system, it is advisable to check the pressure in it. The settings of the pressure switch depend on this indicator, and during transportation and storage, the pressure could drop, so control is very desirable. You can control the pressure in the hydraulic tank using a pressure gauge connected to a special inlet in the upper part of the tank (capacity from 100 liters or more) or installed in the lower part of it as one of the trim parts. Temporarily, for monitoring, you can connect a car pressure gauge. His error is usually small and it is convenient for them to work. If this is not the case, you can use the standard one for water pipes, but they usually do not differ in accuracy.

    If necessary, the pressure in the accumulator can be increased or decreased. There is a nipple for this at the top of the tank. A car or bicycle pump is connected through the nipple and, if necessary, the pressure is increased. If it needs to be vented, bend the valve of the nipple with some thin object, releasing the air.

    What air pressure should be

    So should the pressure in the accumulator be the same? For normal operation of household appliances, a pressure of 1.4-2.8 atm is required. To prevent the tank membrane from breaking, the pressure in the system should be slightly higher than the tank pressure - by 0.1-0.2 atm. If the pressure in the tank is 1.5 atm, then the pressure in the system should not be lower than 1.6 atm. This value is set on the water pressure switch, which works in tandem with a hydraulic accumulator. These are the optimal settings for a small one-story house.

    If the house is two-story, you will have to increase the pressure. There is a formula for calculating the pressure in the hydraulic tank:

    Vatm. = (Hmax + 6) / 10

    Where Hmax is the height of the highest draw-off point. Most often it is a shower. You measure (calculate) at what height its watering can is relative to the accumulator, substitute it in the formula, you get the pressure that should be in the tank.

    If a jacuzzi is installed in the house, everything is more complicated. We'll have to select it empirically - changing the relay settings and observing the operation of the water points and household appliances. But at the same time, the working pressure should not be more than the maximum allowable for other household appliances and plumbing fixtures (indicated in the technical specifications).

    How to choose

    The main working body of the hydraulic tank is a membrane. Its service life depends on the quality of the material. The best today are food grade rubber membranes (vulcanized rubber plates). The body material is important only in membrane-type tanks. In those in which the "pear" is installed, water is in contact only with rubber and the material of the body does not matter.

    The flange should be made of thick galvanized steel, but stainless steel is better.

    What's really important about pear tanks is the flange. It is usually made of galvanized metal. In this case, the thickness of the metal is important. If it is only 1 mm, after about a year and a half of operation, a hole will appear in the metal of the flange, the tank will lose its tightness and the system will stop working. Moreover, the warranty is only one year, although the declared service life is 10-15 years. The flange usually decays after the end of the warranty period. There is no way to weld it - a very thin metal. Have to look in service centers a new flange or buy a new tank.

    So, if you want the accumulator to serve for a long time, look for a thick galvanized flange or thin one, but made of stainless steel.

    Connecting the accumulator to the system

    Typically, the water supply system of a private house consists of:


    In this scheme, a pressure gauge may also be present - for operational pressure control, but this device is not necessary. It can be connected periodically to carry out test measurements.

    With or without 5-way union

    If the pump is of the surface type, the accumulator is usually placed near it. In this case, a check valve is installed on the suction pipeline, and all other devices are installed in one bundle. They are usually connected using a five-way union.

    It has leads with different diameters, just for the device used for piping the accumulator. Therefore, the system is most often assembled on its basis. But this element is completely optional and you can connect everything using ordinary fittings and pieces of pipes, but this is a more laborious task, besides there will be more connections.

    How to connect a hydraulic accumulator to a well - a diagram without a five-way choke

    With one inch outlet, the fitting is screwed onto the tank - the fitting is located at the bottom. A pressure switch and a pressure gauge are connected to the 1/4 '' outlets. The pipe from the pump and wiring to consumers are connected to the remaining free inch outputs. That's all the connection of the gyroaccumulator to the pump. If you are assembling a water supply circuit with a surface pump, you can use a flexible hose in a metal winding (with inch fittings) - it is easier to work with it.

    A clear diagram of the pump and accumulator connection - use hoses or pipes where necessary

    As usual, there are several options, you can choose.

    Connect the accumulator to submersible pump similar. The whole difference is where the pump is installed and where to supply power, but this has nothing to do with installing a hydraulic accumulator. It is placed in the place where the pipes from the pump go. Connection - one to one (see diagram).

    How to install two hydraulic tanks on one pump

    When operating the system, sometimes the owners come to the conclusion that the available volume of the accumulator is not enough for them. In this case, you can install a second (third, fourth, etc.) hydraulic tank of any volume in parallel.

    There is no need to reconfigure the system, the relay will monitor the pressure in the tank on which it is installed, and the viability of such a system is much higher. After all, if the first accumulator is damaged, the second will work. There is one more positive point - two tanks of 50 liters each cost less than one per 100. The point is in a more complex technology for the production of large-sized containers. So it is also more cost effective.

    How to connect a second accumulator to the system? Screw a tee onto the input of the first one, connect the input from the pump (five-outlet fitting) to one free output, and the second container to the remaining free output. Everything. You can test the circuit.

    The hydraulic accumulator is an expansion tank for water supply that performs several tasks at the same time. In principle, a hydraulic accumulator is a container divided into two parts by an elastic membrane - for air and water. The air pressure in the air cavity is 1.5-2.0 bar. The water entering the container increases the fill volume by stretching the membrane. At the same time, the pressure in the air cavity of the tank increases. When a certain pressure is reached, the automatic shutdown of the feed pump is triggered. When you open the water tap, i.e. when the pressure in the network drops, the air squeezes water from the accumulator into the network, replenishing the volume loss and compensating for the drop in water pressure. In this way, the system maintains pressure when the pump is off, water hammer when the pump is turned on is mitigated, and the system as a whole has an additional supply of water.

    In working order, the accumulator always contains water and air. The air pressure in the air cavity of the unit can decrease over time, therefore, it should be checked once a year in the hydraulic tank after the water has been completely removed. If the pressure is insufficient, air can be pumped with a conventional hand pump through the nipple. It will not be possible to fill the accumulator completely with water, and the maximum volume of water depends on several factors:

    1. the shape and volume of the accumulator;
    2. initial air pressure;
    3. the elasticity of the diaphragm;
    4. installation levels of the pressure switch for switching on and off the pump.

    Hydraulic accumulators are used with water supply systems of both residential and industrial buildings.

    What is a hydraulic accumulator for?

    We list all the functions of the accumulator:

    • maintaining pressure in the system when the pump is off;
    • creating a reserve of a certain volume of water (storage tank);
    • elimination of the need for frequent switching on and off of the pump;
    • compensation of water volume during peak consumption;
    • leveling hydraulic shocks in the system when the pump is turned on.

    Install the accumulator as close as possible to the pump. If two accumulators are used, then they should be placed side by side to ensure uniform pressure and filling of both containers.

    What hydroaccumulator is needed for water supply systems

    Of all existing species hydroaccumulators for water supply, we will consider in detail the work of two, which are usually used in the water supply systems of individual houses.

    Bladder accumulators

    They represent a thick-walled container, inside which there is an elastic rubber balloon filled with water. The space between the cylinder and the walls of the container is filled with air under a certain pressure. When the cylinder is filled, the air pressure inside the tank increases; when the water pressure in the network (opening the tap) drops, the air "squeezes" water out of the cylinder, making up for the lack of it in the system. At the same time, the total pressure in the system drops, but gradually, "smoothing" the sudden pressure drops between the pump starts.

    Diaphragm accumulators

    The principle of operation of such a device is similar to the balloon one. The only difference is in the design: the membrane tank is divided into two parts, between which an elastic sealed membrane is installed. One part of the container is filled with water, the other with air. When the tank is filled, the air pressure rises; when the pressure drops, the compressed air "squeezes" the water into the system.

    Which accumulator to buy for a private house

    Of the two types of accumulators, when choosing, we recommend stopping at a cylinder-type installation. The water in it comes into contact with the rubber wall, in contrast to membrane models, in which corrosion of the metal wall and water pollution are possible

    For a sufficient supply of water in the event of a power outage, a hydraulic tank of appropriate working capacity is required. Hydroaccumulators of vertical and horizontal types are available. The former are convenient for installation in confined spaces.

    The choice of accumulators in the retail network is now large. You can buy a hydraulic accumulator in a specialized building supermarket or a trading company. Prices depend on the manufacturer, volume and type of equipment. You can find many videos on the Internet about different types hydroaccumulators. At the end of the article, you will find detailed video on this topic.

    How to choose the volume of the accumulator

    If everything is clear with the choice of the design and type of accumulator in shape, then the main characteristic of the hydraulic tank - its volume - requires a detailed explanation. The network has complex mathematical calculations of the required capacity of the accumulator, but we will manage simple guidelines based on the conclusions of the calculations and the operating experience of such equipment:

    • a hydroaccumulator with a tank volume of 20-24 liters is suitable for 3 people living in the house, and a pump capacity of up to 2 m3 / h;
    • a hydraulic accumulator with a tank volume of 50-60 liters is sufficient for 4 - 8 residents and a pump capacity of up to 3.5 m3 / h;
    • hydroaccumulator with a volume of 100 liters or more - for 10 or more residents and pump capacity from 5 m3 / h.

    Consider a few of the most important functions of a hydraulic accumulator with a choice of suitable equipment in terms of volume. Hydraulic tanks for water supply systems must provide:

    Optimum pump operation

    So that the water supply pump does not turn on often (it is considered optimal no more than 1 time per hour), the required volume of the accumulator can be calculated from the pump performance. With the volume of the water cavity in 50% of the total, in most cases, homeowners are quite satisfied with a hydraulic accumulator of 60 - 80 liters.

    Optimal network pressure

    An important characteristic of a hydraulic accumulator is to maintain normal pressure in the network. For these purposes, a minimum volume of a hydraulic accumulator of 24 liters is sufficient with its installation near the pump.

    Reserve water supply

    The problem of creating a reserve stock of water arises, as a rule, in places of frequent power outages. At the same time, the pump often stops, which negatively affects its operation. The solution to the problem here can be the installation of a hydraulic accumulator with a volume of 100 liters or more, the useful volume of the storage capacity of which is up to 50% of the total.

    What should be the expansion tank of the accumulator

    Speaking of the expansion tank of the hydraulic accumulator, it should not be confused with the expansion tank of heating and hot water supply systems. The equipment looks very similar. The fundamental difference is that heating expansion tanks serve to compensate for the thermal expansion of the coolant.

    Working pressure is one of the main characteristics of a hydraulic accumulator. This is the pressure in an empty container without water, and its value is indicated on the body of the hydraulic tank. The specified pressure should not be lower than the pressure of the height of the liquid in the water supply of the house. At a system height of 10 m, the pressure will be 1 bar.

    The pressure when starting the pump must exceed the pressure in the expansion tank of the water supply by more than 0.5 bar. For the most effective work system, the difference must be 1.5 - 3.0 bar.

    The maximum pressure in the tank should not be less than the maximum system pressure in the event of a relay failure. Therefore, the maximum pressure of the containers is usually 10 bar.

    Conclusions: which accumulator is best

    In addition to the technical selection criteria discussed above, we will give a few more considerations regarding the quality of the accumulator materials.

    1. The removable flange in the cylinder is usually made of stainless or galvanized steel. When buying, you should definitely pay attention to this. If, over time, you cannot do without replacing the flange, specify where and for how much you can buy it.
    2. If tap water is intended for drinking, you need to make sure that the material from which the "pear" of the accumulator is made is safe for the health. Well-known manufacturers guarantee the quality of the material, which cannot be said about small, little-known companies. True, this does not matter if such water is not supposed to be drunk.
    3. Otherwise, the choice is made based on the specific operating conditions: the required volume of water, pressure, optimal performance pump, the necessary water reserve in case of emergency shutdowns, installation conditions.