HYDRAULIC SEPARATORS
MARK MOGEY, HEAD OF OEM & ROI SALES AT ALTECNIC, OUTLINES HOW HYDRAULIC SEPARATORS CONTRIBUTE TO THE EFFICIENCY OF HEAT PUMP INSTALLATIONS… Shaping the future of energy-conscious heating and cooling systems
Mark Mogey, Head of OEM & ROI Sales at Altecnic.
ISSUES CAUSED BY SHORT CYCLING
With heat pumps playing an important role in the decarbonisation of heating, hydraulic separators also play a key role in ensuring a heat pump system can operate efficiently. WHY ARE HYDRAULIC SEPARATORS NEEDED? Hydraulic separators serve as a crucial component in heat pump systems, addressing challenges associated with varying flow rates and temperatures. These separators help ensure the efficient and consistent operation of heat pumps by managing the different requirements of the heat source and the distribution system. In systems which anticipate the use of a booster pump, it is suggested that separating the primary and secondary circuits using a hydraulic separator is required. This is to avoid interference between these circuits due to variations in the flow rates and head generated by the circulation pumps. A BALANCING ACT Heat pump systems often encounter variations in demand
whirling movements to facilitate the release of micro-bubbles. The bubbles, fusing with each other, increase in volume and, rising towards the top of the unit, are released through a float-operated automatic air vent. • Hydraulic separation Through this, the component keeps the hydraulic circuits connected, totally independently from each other. • Removal of ferrous particles A patented magnetic system also attracts ferromagnetic impurities in the water. The ferromagnetic particles are trapped in the collection zone, preventing recirculation. These functions are available up to 50mm in our SEP4 549 Series Combination Hydraulic Separators. To limit heat loss, the 548 and 549 are supplied complete with pre-formed shell insulation to guarantee perfect thermal insulation. This insulation also provides the tightness required to prevent atmospheric water vapour from entering the unit. INTEGRATION IS KEY Integrating a hydraulic separator into your heat pump installation ensures a balanced, stable and energy-efficient operation. As the demand for sustainable HVAC solutions continues to grow, the partnership between heat pumps and hydraulic separators will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy-conscious heating and cooling systems.
Short cycling, where a heat pump turns on and off frequently, can significantly impact its efficiency and lifespan. Hydraulic separators play a crucial role in preventing short cycling by ensuring that the heat pump operates within its optimal temperature range. This not only enhances energy efficiency but also contributes to a longer operational life. Selecting the highest-performing hydraulic separator will ensure that the heat pump system can operate as intended, with some even adding the extra security of dirt and air separation. FINDING THE RIGHT HYDRAULIC SEPARATOR Caleffi 548 and 549 hydraulic separators keep the primary and secondary circuits hydraulically connected yet are able to function totally independently from each other. They combine different functional components, each of which will satisfy the specific needs of HVAC systems such as heat pumps. These functions consist of: • Dirt separation The dirt separator separates and collects any impurities in the circuits as they collide with the surface of the internal element. • Deaeration This utilises the combined action of several principles of physics: the widening of the cross section decreases the flow velocity and the technopolymer mesh creates
Caleffi 549
hydraulic separator.
and supply temperatures, especially in climates with
fluctuating weather conditions. Hydraulic separators act as a balancing mechanism, allowing heat pumps to work seamlessly even when faced with varying load demands. They help maintain a stable system, preventing inefficiencies and unnecessary wear and tear on components.
Caleffi 548 hydraulic separator.
For more information, contact Chris Reilly, Country Manager for Ireland: T: +353 (0)85 215 2288 E: chris.reilly@altecnic.co.uk - www.altecnic.co.uk
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