What do we mean by “balancing” a hydraulic plant? How do we do it properly?
Optimal performance is guaranteed in a hydraulic system when it is adjusted and balanced. This happens when the heat transfer fluid flow rates, which supply the system terminal emitters, are equally regulated.
When the adjustment is done correctly, the plant can offer better thermal comfort, low energy consumption, and performance according to design conditions.
The flow rate simple and precise adjustment is assured by balancing valves.
ICMA’s balancing valves allow a proper, precise and gradual adjustment of the hydraulic system’s flow rate. It is possible to set the head loss and the heat transfer fluid flow rate by simply regulating the adjustment display.
What are the benefits balancing valves?
Energy efficiency and comfort
When a plant is not properly adjusted, the terminal emitters don’t function efficiently. Hence, in different rooms the temperature is not the same. This doesn’t only cause discomfort, but an increase in energy waste, as well.
On the contrary, by using balancing valves, the hydraulic system will perfectly distribute water in all circuits, guaranteeing comfort in every room and reducing costs.
For this reason, the European norms recommend using balancing valves as the main energy-saving strategy.
Lower risks of overheating and wear
Nowadays balancing valves are considered essential to maintain the plant’s efficiency by engineers, installers and plumbers.
Their use allows to obtain the performance planned by the engineers and by the customer, by allowing the circulators to work at high efficiency.
Consequently, the plant is less likely to overheat and, moreover, the risk of early wear is prevented.
Reduced differential pressures
In many hydraulic systems, especially in tall buildings, all pressures are different from each other and this causes an under or oversupply of the individual circuits.
Thanks to balancing valves, the differential pressures values are reduced. In conclusion, working irregularity is reduced.
Silenziosità
The high-speed values of the heat transfer fluid in an unbalanced plant can cause annoying flow noises.
However, thanks to balancing valves, these uncomfortable situations can be avoided, assuring a quiet and efficient hydraulic system.
Discover all the products
C298 | Calibration and balancing valve for heating – 1”M e 1”F connections
Calibration and balancing valve for heating, cooling and sanitary systems. Equipped with a calibration display and antitampering setting lock. When the value of the valve is set, it can be opened or closed, but not at a higher kv value than the set one. PN20, max. working temperature 120°C, EPDM gaskets, brass body. 1”M e 1”F connections (revolving nut).
C299 | Calibration and balancing valve for heating, cooling and sanitary systems
Calibration and balancing valve for heating, cooling and sanitary systems. Equipped with a calibration display and antitampering setting lock. When the value of the valve is set, it can be opened or closed, but not at a higher kv value than the set one. PN20, max. working temperature 120°C, EPDM gaskets,brass body.
C300 | Calibration and balancing valve with threaded connections and self-sealing measuring sockets for heating
Calibration and balancing valve with threaded connections and self-sealing measuring sockets for heating, cooling and sanitary systems. Equipped with a calibration display and antitampering setting lock. When the value of the valve is set, it can be opened or closed, but not at a higher kv value than the set one. PN20, max. working temperature 120°C, EPDM gaskets, brass body.
C301 | Calibration and balancing valve with flanged connections and self-sealing measuring sockets for heating
Calibration and balancing valve with flanged connections and self-sealing measuring sockets for heating, cooling and sanitary systems. Flanged body in cast iron. Equipped with a calibration display and antitampering setting lock. When the value of the valve is set, it can be opened or closed, but not at a higher kv value than the set one. PN16, max. working temperature 120°C, EPDM gaskets.
C302 | Calibration and balancing valve with flanged connections and self-sealing measuring sockets for heating
Calibration and balancing valve with flanged connections and self-sealing measuring sockets for heating, cooling and sanitary systems. Flanged body in cast iron. PN16, max. working temperature 120°C, teflon and EPDM gaskets.