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Hydronic Radiator
Operation
- Radiators are manufactured in the USA of cold
rolled low carbon steel and should be used only in closed
closed hydronic systems to assure no corrosion of any system
components.
-
Proper radiator operation depends on adequate flow of water
to the panel, which can only be accomplished when all the
system air has been fully vented from the panels.
-
Radiators should each be vented, with the system pressurized
but in a static state (pumps off). Venting may need to be
done periodically to assure a closed system.
-
DO NOT
OVER-PRESSURIZE RADIATORS:
Most radiators are standard pressure construction. Standard
pressure radiators should be tested with NO MORE THAN 50
PSI.
-
Radiator Operating Pressure Ratings:
Standard Pressure - 56 psi max (Tested at 74 psi)
Medium Pressure - 85 psi max (Tested at 110 psi)
High Pressure - 128 psi max (Tested at 184 psi)
-
Radiators expand a maximum of
0.016 inch per linear foot of length if heated to 215°F.
Piping attached to the radiator must provide the necessary
expansion compensation.
-
Flexible piping and elbowed
piping are two simple ways to provide the 1/8 inch to 1/2
inch (typical) of flexibility required in expansion
situations (usually series piping).
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Runtal Radiators require less
flow rate than other hydronic heating products. If flow
noise is apparent, balance the system until the noise is
reduced.
-
For a delta T of 20°F. (T
supply minus T return), divide the total Btu/hr capacity of
the loop by 10,000. This gives the Flow Rate in gallons per
minute (GPM)
-
Many levels of control are
available today for hydronic systems. Runtal Radiators will
provide nice, even heating whether operated by a simple
thermostat to baseboard loop system, or an advanced boiler
reset controller with motorized mixing valves, constant
circulation and 2-pipe distribution.
Radiator
Maintenance
-
Hydronic system
maintenance should include routine checks for piping leaks
(usually indicated by frequent makeup water), and a yearly
diagnosis of the system water pH to evaluate its corrosive
potential.
-
Internal radiator
maintenance depends entirely on the system water makeup and
proper venting. Hydronic system additives are available to
passivate and protect against freezing. These additives will
not significantly reduce the output of Runtal Radiators.
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External radiator
maintenance consists of keeping the surfaces clean, and any
paint nicks or deep scratches painted with touch-up to
prevent any surface rust.
- Radiators can be
painted after sanding with fine grit paper to dull the high
gloss and by wiping with solvent or a tack rag. Use only
oil-based enamel paint (alkyd, acrylic, urethane, epoxy) –
do not use latex or lacquer paint. Use urethane or epoxy
enamel for radiators located in harsh environments. Spray
the paint to achieve an even coating, and let dry completely
before heating the radiator.
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