Metal radiators are the main traditional source of heat for any type of room. In this element of the heating system should be most effectively expressed functional and decorative features. And in this respect, the potential of bimetallic radiators is not fully exhausted. These products can be considered direct heirs of cast iron batteries, since they basically still contain ferrous metal, and the strength calculation rests primarily on its gross rigidity.
Alternative to obsolete cast iron batteries
It is the quality of radiator batteries that comes first. The main task of these products is to withstand any pressure in the heating system. And in this respect, if you ask yourself which bimetallic radiators are better to acquire and install, the answer will not be in doubt. These are those that guarantee high strength, durability of use, and, of course, having a beautiful finish. Original, high-quality made bimetallic radiators are able to withstand pressure up to 35 atmospheres. Even for the most serious heating systems, more is a lot.
The fact that bimetallic batteries are more qualitative than pig-iron ones is explained by the fact that they combine all the best properties of the old type of radiators and are combined in composition with the most versatile material – aluminum. Let’s consider what comes out of it: durability, strength, high thermal conductivity and heat transfer, elegance. Neither cast iron nor aluminum by themselves can combine this complex of quality indicators, which are represented by one product – a bimetallic radiator made of steel and aluminum.
But a clear answer to the question of which radiator is better: aluminum or bimetallic, obviously not. The choice depends on each specific situation and preferences of the customer.
The modern market of such products is full of various samples, so there is plenty to choose from. The main criterion is personal preferences, if they do not go against a real need. But aesthetics do not give heat. Therefore, pragmatic arguments should also be considered. The main thing is what distinguishes radiator heating batteries – this is the material that is their basis and gives them certain qualities. The primary ones are strength, efficiency, and wear resistance. It is best to pay attention to products that have universal qualities.
And such a device is bimetallic radiators. Of all radiators designed for water heating systems, these products are the most durable. Modern design is deceptive, because its surface is decorated with aluminum, and it seems that the way it is. Understand the difference can only be if you check the weight. Bimetallic will be about half harder. But this does not affect the installation of radiators. The main thing that the fixture was reliable. For these batteries there are no restrictions on the type of heating system.
To better understand which heating radiators are better: aluminum or bimetallic, it is necessary to fully study their technical and structural features. The production of aluminum batteries is carried out by casting. This makes the design monolithic, which is an advantage of this type of device. It also ensures that the radiator is resistant to wear and never leaks, and this is one of the main advantages when using steam heating.
Also, aluminum radiators have high heat dissipation, which favorably affects their use. It is important at the time of purchase to make the right choice of radiator. Errors are possible, but they are not connected with technical indicators, but with the possibility of replacing a real aluminum radiator with a product with metal substitutes in its composition. There is always a risk of acquiring a fake, but it is not a problem if you buy goods from reputable manufacturers. Nobody canceled the quality rule, and it constantly operates: original products made of high-quality materials cannot be sold at half price. And to save on things that will depend on comfort in the house for many decades is not worth it.
Buying a bimetallic radiator is an investment in your own well-being. Such a product will generously give off heat, and it can be said that it will help to save money on dwelling heating. This also contributes to the special ribbed design of the radiator. Its structure is made so that contact with air and circulation in the room were the most effective. Strengthen the rate of thermal conductivity can a special composition of the metal alloy. This allows you to limit the small size of the radiator, which is very convenient and profitable.
Installation of bimetallic or aluminum heating radiators is much more profitable than cast iron batteries. The latter can no longer provide the level of economy of heating, which is required at current prices for heat carriers. Also, modern bimetallic, as well as aluminum, radiators are valued by the fact that they are practically not affected by corrosion and can successfully withstand an aggressive acid environment in heating systems. The versatility of modern bimetallic radiators consists also in the fact that they can be used in open or closed heating cycles.
With high-quality manufacturing, the design of bimetallic radiators is complete and practically invulnerable to leaks. In fact, this is a kind of aluminum radiator, but with its additional advantages. The combination of steel and aluminum makes the radiator a good and effective intermediary in the transfer of heat into the surrounding space. Compared to an aluminum radiator, a bimetallic can withstand more than twice the internal atmospheric load, which indicates its strength.
Which radiator is better to choose for an apartment and a private house. Characteristics and design. Which radiators are better to use in the apartment, and which in a private house.
Despite the fact that the usual atmospheric pressure in urban heating systems is relatively low, and the strength of aluminum radiators is sufficient, there is always a risk of a breakthrough due to a sharp pressure jump due to hydraulic shock. Therefore, the use of bimetallic batteries in heating systems is always a guarantee of reliability and protection from emergency situations.
Installation of bimetallic radiators is always recommended to start with the study of technical documentation and manufacturer’s recommendations. This is a responsible matter, so it would be right to entrust this work to a specialist who has the official right of access to the performance of such functions. First, the entire heating system is flushed. But it is impossible to use alkaline solutions for washing and to clean the connecting elements with abrasive materials. All radiators must be equipped with manual or automatic valves for air and vapor release. A quality and serviceable valve will close immediately after the air has been vented. The radiator tank must be completely filled with the heat-carrying fluid.
Before the direct placement of the bimetallic radiator, a selection is made of the places where the brackets will be mounted. They are installed with the help of dowel fixing fittings, or planted on cement mortar. The location of the radiator must be horizontal, and the intervals between the sections must be placed on the stops of the brackets. Supply communications are connected to radiators via taps and thermostatic valves. The air vent valve is located at the top of the product. Between the walls and the radiator it is necessary to leave the distance recommended according to the instructions. These devices should be provided with free access, they should not be closed by curtains or other things. Properly installed bimetallic radiators will allow you to never think about what is the problem with heating. Having established bimetallic radiators, you should not return to this question any more.
