Gas boilers, like any other equipment designed to work with blue fuel, require constant attention. Any problems, emergencies can cause a gas leak and provoke a fire or explosion. Adequate operation of gas equipment is possible only if a number of rules are observed. Keeping track of everything manually is clearly not the best way. That is why automation is used for gas boiler, able to adjust all gas work and provide an adequate response to any emergency situation, preventing an accident.

Why do you need

The gas is burned in the boiler, and the released heat is transferred to the coolant, from which the room is heated through radiators. During the combustion process, the gas must be strictly dosed based on the required heat output, mixed with oxygen-saturated air, and make sure that the exhaust gases go into the chimney, and not into the living space. All this should be monitored by automation.

The control unit has the following tasks:

• Ensure gas ignition.
• Control the combustion process, dose the gas supply, providing the necessary thermal power.
• Monitor the level of draft in the chimney or flue duct.
• Turn on the gas supply when the coolant temperature drops below the minimum set threshold.
• Turn off the gas supply when reaching the maximum set temperature coolant.

In any incomprehensible situation or in the event of a problem, the task of automation is extremely simple - turn off the gas supply, if possible, notify the user about the presence of a problem.

Gas supply and distribution are controlled by valves. These are mechanical devices capable of completely blocking the gas flow through the channel. To be more precise, in gas equipment valves close the channel by default and open it only if this is permissible according to the operating conditions of the device. The valve drive can be either mechanical or electronic, depending on the design of the automation.

The control unit is guided by the readings of temperature and pressure sensors. Based on the indications, permits for gas supply or interruption of work in case of an emergency are determined.

According to the principle of operation and design, automation for gas boilers can be:

• mechanical (non-volatile);
• electronic.

It is impossible to say for sure that one of them is better, because each has its own advantages and serious disadvantages. The interchangeability of blocks is almost zero, so you should familiarize yourself with their characteristics and features in advance, choose a boiler with the necessary control unit already installed.

Mechanical

Mechanical automation for gas boilers does not require an electrical connection. This is the main advantage. However, it is not always completely mechanical. It can use a built-in power source - a battery or an accumulator - and use other sources, such as a thermocouple that generates EMF under the influence of high temperatures. All the same, energy independence is preserved, which, in the final analysis, is what is required. All settings are set manually, moreover, with a significant error.

So far, one system has been automatic control- EuroSit 630. This automation unit with Italian roots turned out to be so good and practical that it is installed on almost all gas boilers with non-volatile control. It is produced in many countries with or without a license.

The mechanical automation unit is a metal case with a labyrinth inside, through which gas can pass from the inlet to the outlet. A number of valves regulate the supply, pressure and flow of gas depending on the operating conditions and the set settings. Two control knobs set the boiler operation mode and the setting of the target coolant temperature.

The main knob defines three modes of operation:

• complete shutdown;
• ignition of the fuse;
• main combustion mode.

In the first mode, the gas supply is completely stopped.

In the second mode, only the igniter works. This is a small burner with minimal gas consumption, which is constantly on and is needed to ignite the gas in the main burners of the combustion chamber. By pressing the switch handle, the damper opens on the gas path to the igniter. The igniter is ignited using the piezo ignition button. A temperature sensor, a thermocouple, is fixed next to it. Under the influence of high temperature, an EMF is generated on the sensor, approximately 25 mV, which is enough to power an electromagnetic relay that keeps the damper constantly open. When the thermocouple warms up well, the handle is released, and the igniter will no longer go out. If for some reason it goes out, the thermocouple will cool down and the relay will close the valve again.

In the main combustion mode, the automation opens the passage for the bulk of the gas on the way to the burners. The gas ignites from the igniter, the heat rises to the heat exchanger and is transferred to the coolant.

The valve responsible for the gas supply is tied to a temperature sensor, which is mounted at the outlet of the heat exchanger. The sensor is a vessel filled with a liquid or gas that can expand or contract strongly with a change in temperature. The vessel is connected with a thin copper tube with the automation unit and exerts pressure on the valve stem.

The adjustment knob sets the valve actuation thresholds depending on the pressure exerted by the sensor. If the temperature of the heat carrier is lower than that set by the regulator, then gas supply is allowed. When the maximum allowable temperature is reached, the gas supply is stopped.

Another temperature sensor is installed before exiting the chimney. It reacts to the temperature of the outgoing gases. If they are too cold, then there is no draft, or the burner is not working, there is no fire. In any case, this is a signal to shut off the gas. If the temperature of the outgoing gases is too high, then too intense combustion is maintained, which should also be stopped.

A number of adjusting bolts, not accessible to the user during normal operation, allow:

• set the allowable gas flow and pressure;
• set the minimum gas pressure;
• adjust the limits of change in the temperature of the coolant.

Their installation should be carried out by a specialist during installation and initial setup of the gas boiler.

A frequent problem of non-volatile automation is the incorrect operation of temperature-sensitive elements. The thermocouple on the igniter is difficult to manufacture, and the output characteristics of each sensor vary greatly even in one batch, which gives a significant error in the operation of gas boilers. The situation is simplified by the fact that even a non-specialist can replace a thermostat or thermocouple, they are commercially available and often interchangeable.

Electronic

The gas boiler is controlled by an electronic control unit capable of setting the optimal operating mode in accordance with a given program and based on the readings of a number of sensors. The main advantage is the accuracy of setting the operating mode, optimization of gas consumption and the ability to program the operation of heating equipment. The main disadvantage is the dependence on electricity, if for some reason it is not there, then the gas boiler stops working.

Continuous home heating requires the installation of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and a voltage stabilizer for stable operation of the control circuit. Another disadvantage of electronic automation is poor maintainability. Sensors are often used unified and are easy to replace, but if broken power block control, then it will have to be replaced entirely, which will be expensive.

It is based on mechanical system valves, which determines the supply and distribution of gas. The valves are controlled by a series of electromagnetic relays. By default, all valves are closed. Only if certain conditions are met, the control unit energizes the relay and thereby supplies gas to the burners in the combustion chamber.

In its work, the electronic unit relies on the readings of temperature-sensitive sensors installed at the inlet and outlet of the heat exchanger, at the outlet to the chimney. In high-quality boilers, flow sensors are additionally installed, a CO sensor ( carbon monoxide) and CO2 (carbon dioxide), as well as external electronic thermometers that determine the temperature in the street and in the room. As a result, the electronic control unit is able to develop the most efficient mode of operation, in which the gas flow and heating of the coolant occur exactly in the volumes that are needed to maintain comfortable temperature in home.

In almost all electronically controlled gas boilers, it is possible to connect an external microcontroller if it is not already included in the equipment. Using the display, it makes it possible to monitor the exact values ​​​​of the temperature of the coolant, the control panel - to determine the operating mode of the boiler and set the schedule for the day and week. In the very simple version the electronic control unit works with the same efficiency as mechanical automation, and at the same time it is quite cheap, and if necessary, an external microcontroller is connected.

Which to choose

Mechanical control units require user attention to start the boiler and during operation. The setting of such parameters as gas consumption, boiler power and coolant temperature is set with a significant error, approximately and is corrected if necessary only manually. In contrast, they do not depend on electricity and its quality, they are more reliable and durable. The main advantage is the low cost of automation and the boiler as a whole.

Electronic control allows you to set the optimal mode of operation, even taking into account the daily and weekly schedule. The work is fully automated. Start-up, main mode of operation and response to any emergency situations occur without user intervention. Setting system parameters is much more precise. The coolant temperature is adjusted down to a degree, and gas consumption is significantly reduced, because the boiler will only work when it is really necessary. However, you will have to pay a lot of money for comfort.

Considering that the boiler is bought only once and for a long time, if the budget allows, it is better to give preference to gas boilers with electronic filling in combination with a UPS and a stabilizer.

Every system gas heating in a private house or city apartment has individual technical characteristics and features. differ not only in functionality and, but also in the control system. For safety reasons, all models of gas boilers are equipped with devices and devices for automatic adjustment of heating equipment. For a more complete picture of autonomous heating in the house, you should figure out how the gas boiler automation system works, and what types of such devices exist.

Which automation is better - mechanical or electronic?

Devices that control the operation of heating equipment can be mechanical or electronic. In budget models of gas boilers, in most cases, a mechanical, manual control option is used. Despite the fact that the level of technological progress has reached unprecedented heights, mechanics remains a reliable and proven tool. Automatic safety of gas boilers, operating in manual control mode, is an order of magnitude cheaper. The principle of operation of most models of boilers with manual control is simple and understandable for domestic use.

The regulator of the intensity of the supply of coolant to the radiator of the water heating system

Automation block mechanical principle actions are easier to maintain and repair. Dismantling such a unit is quite within the power of a specialist - a heat engineer who carries out a routine inspection of boiler equipment in your home.

Manual, mechanical control of a gas boiler, regardless of the power supply - the owner of the home independently sets the temperature necessary for heating the living space, everything else depends on the laws of physics that underlie the operation of the mechanism.

For reference: the heat exchanger is equipped with a thermocouple - a mechanism based on a plate combined from two parts - steel and nickel. During heating, the plate lengthens, and when cooled, it decreases in length, acting on the valve, which opens or closes the gas supply to the working area. Based on the same principle, it also works, which is equipped with gas boilers with an open combustion chamber. The bimetallic plate, when the temperature rises to a critical level (more than 75 0 C), bends, opening the circuit. When the flame decreases, the plate returns to its natural position. Everything is simple and clear.

A different principle of operation is laid down in automation with electronic filling, which uses no physical properties materials and media, but a fundamentally different way of transmitting a signal to equipment.

Electronic automatic control systems

The most common type of automation that is used in budget models of boilers is an electronic thermostat.

The device is installed indoors and controls heating based on signals from a remote temperature sensor located in the actual zone of the room. When the temperature drops below the set limit, the boiler is signaled to turn on. When the optimum temperature parameters are reached, the sensors transmit a shutdown signal to the system. Room thermostats have gas boilers cable connection.

In this case, the presence of a thermostat provides optimal temperature heating of a gas boiler and cost-effectiveness of blue fuel consumption. To date, several types of thermostats are on sale, differing in functionality, technical characteristics and installation method. Programmable devices ensure that the optimal temperature regime is maintained inside the dwelling for a given period of time.

On a note: some models can automatically control the operation of a gas boiler during the day, other models of equipment are able to control the operating unit during the week. Wireless automatic control devices are also produced, allowing remote control of the operation of the boiler. The range of modern remote control systems, depending on the model chosen, is 25-100 m.

Conclusion

What is better, mechanical automation or electronic control devices, the consumer decides. A good gas boiler can work successfully both with manual control and with the use of electronic automatic devices.

Modern appliances, which are equipped with all models of gas boilers that exist today, are an integral part of the heating system. Without properly configured automation correctly.

When considering home heating options, most often they stop at using a gas boiler. If there is a main gas pipeline near the house, this heating option is considered the most economical and efficient.

When installing any heating boiler, including gas, a mandatory component of the system is automation. Such automation for heating boilers allows, without human intervention, to maintain the specified climatic conditions in a heated room and provide optimal conditions operation of such a boiler.

What does automation for gas heating boilers consist of

Typically, such automation includes the following elements:

• fittings. These are actuators that, under the action of commands, turn on and off the start-up of the boiler, as well as regulate its power;
• valves designed to cut off the gas supply;
• maximum and minimum pressure switch. Designed to protect the system when pressure drops or increases too much;
• thermostat;
• water and gas pressure sensors;
• controller - an electronic device that, based on the data received, calculates the optimal mode of operation of the gas boiler and generates control commands.

Types of automation for heating boilers

From the point of view of power, automation for gas boilers is of two types:

• non-volatile automation;
• volatile automation.

These two types of automation differ in that the first system does not require power from electrical network, and for the second to work, electricity must be supplied

Accordingly, these two automation systems will include different elements.

Non-volatile automation is simpler and more reliable, as it does not react to a sudden power outage.

Non-volatile automation

These automation systems include:

• ignition system, which is used as a piezoelectric element;
• thermostat;
• draft and flame sensor.

Mechanical automation starts working after the boiler is started. Depending on the temperature of the heated water, the thermostat changes the amount of fuel supplied to the burner. Structurally, the thermostat is a metal rod. It changes its length as the temperature changes. Thus, it opens or closes the gas supply.

The draft and flame sensor is designed to interrupt the gas supply when the burner flame goes out or the draft in the chimney is poor. Structurally, such a sensor consists of a bimetallic plate, which, under the influence of temperature, changes its position and closes the gas supply.

Of the control and measuring equipment in such systems, a pressure gauge and a thermometer are used. Such a system is configured manually.

Modern non-volatile automation systems for gas boilers can have a much larger number of nodes. For example, Italian non-volatile automation has the following nodes:

• system of inclusion and management of temperature;
• flame protection system;
• device for setting the minimum gas flow;
• pressure regulator;
• thermostat with burner shut-off function.

Volatile automation

More complex is volatile automation. Such electronic system contains more elements.

For regulation in volatile automation, electromagnetic valves are used. The operation of these valves is carried out according to commands generated in the processor. Using a special display, the operator can select one of the possible modes. And the correct implementation of this mode will ensure automation.

From the point of view of the functions performed, automation for gas heating boilers can be of two main types:

• room thermostat;
• weather dependent.

Room thermostat

In the first case, the main indicator for controlling the operation of a gas boiler is the temperature in the room. Depending on this temperature, the operating mode of the boiler is selected. When the temperature in the room drops, the boiler starts to work, and when the temperature exceeds the set level, it will turn off.

Thermostat designs may vary. For example, the SEITRO thermostat operates using a membrane sensor. At a certain temperature, the sensor closes and a switch-on command is transmitted to the gas boiler.

Thermostats can be installed in any convenient place in the room, and communication with the gas boiler control unit can be carried out using a cable or wireless connection.

SEITRO thermostat

A kind of thermostat is a programmer. From such a programmer, commands are transmitted to the gas boiler during the day, in accordance with which its mode of operation is carried out. Every day the cycle is repeated.

The weather-dependent automation of the gas boiler works taking into account the temperature environment on the street. Appropriate adjustment of automation allows you to maintain a constant climate in the house when the air temperature outside changes.

Weather-dependent automation

Basic functions of automation

The main functions of automatic gas heating boiler are the following functions:

• automatic start of the gas boiler;
• stop the operation of the gas boiler;
• control and adjustment of the burner power using an appropriate sensor;
• emergency stop of the gas boiler in case of any malfunction.

When you turn on the gas boiler, the automation first starts the hardware of the system. With this, the temperature is measured and the amount of gas that must be supplied to the gas burner is estimated. At the next stage, the automation starts the gas fittings, as a result of which gas is supplied to the system. At the same time, a spark is ignited in the combustion chamber, which ignites the gas. Under the action of a flame in the heat exchanger, water is heated, which is then fed into the batteries.

One of the options is sub-automatic for a gas heating boiler

An important part of the automation system of a gas heating boiler is the security subsystem. This includes:

• overheating protection;
• frost protection;
• anti-blocking;
• anticyclic function;
• flame and draft control.

To protect against overheating, duplication of sensors is often used - a temperature sensor and a limit thermostat. To protect against freezing when the water cools down to a temperature of + 5 degrees, the automation ignites the burner and heats the water.

Anti-blocking provides automatic activation of the pump every 24 hours in order to combat scale. The anti-cycling function assumes that the automation prevents frequent ignition of the burner, which reduces its operating life. When a signal of the absence of a flame or draft appears, the automation system turns off the gas supply.

In volatile automation systems, the gas supply is turned off using a solenoid valve through which the gas enters the burner. The valve automatically turns off even if the gas stops flowing. The disadvantage of such a valve is that when gas appears, it cannot open automatically and you have to do it manually. At the same time, in case of power failures, after the restoration of the electrical circuit, the system starts automatically.

Modern automation systems for gas heating boilers allow reliable and safe operation of gas boilers

AT modern systems automatics for a gas boiler, the diagnosis of a system malfunction is performed automatically. The results of this diagnostic are displayed. This greatly facilitates and speeds up the repair of a gas boiler.

Outcome

Choosing which automation to buy for a gas boiler it must be understood that most modern systems are volatile. If the customer has doubts about the reliability of the electrical network in his house, then it is necessary to consider the use of non-volatile automation systems.

Video review and honeywell automation for gas boiler:

The presented video shows an overview of the 630 Eurosit automation for gas heating boilers

Automation for gas heating boilers

Automation for gas heating boilers can provide not only various modes of operation, but also the necessary level of safety during the operation of the boiler. Various sensors, the control unit provide the necessary operational properties of the boilers.

Automation of gas boilers requires the presence of sensors such as:

• Flame sensor;
• Water level sensor;
• Purge sensor;
• Heat carrier temperature sensor.

Such equipment is necessary to ensure the following points:

• Provides control signals to the ignition transformer, to the solenoid valve and to the fan.
• In case of unsuccessful ignition, the automation for the heating boiler will prohibit the gas supply. Also, a fuel shutdown will take place in case of insufficient air supply or if the fuel is of poor quality.
• During the occurrence of functional malfunctions of the device, the automation will give an “Alarm” signal.
• If the coolant in the heating system does not comply with the norm, then ignition will also be prohibited.

Automatic control of a group of heating boilers

The automatic control unit can also be purchased on request. Automation for electric heating boilers is used for group heating by several gas boilers. The maximum number of boilers must not exceed 6 devices. All boilers must be connected to the same heating system. Such blocks are best suited for boiler rooms, where staff will not need to be constantly present.

The operation of such devices is carried out in accordance with the following data:

• Air temperature inside the boiler room (measured by a thermometer for a heating boiler);
• Collector water temperature;
• Parameters set by means of buttons by the operator.

Through automation, a certain temperature of the water in the heating system is maintained during the operation of the unit.

The temperature can be set independently in manual mode, it can also be set automatically. For this, thermostats for heating boilers are used. A device such as a thermostat for a heating boiler will monitor the temperature regime of the premises.

Automation for steam-type heating boilers is used for the same purposes as in boilers of another type. It not only allows you to control all processes, but also provides proper security. Automation allows you to regulate all processes independently, without the participation of a person.

Automation of steam heating boilers

Automation of steam-type boilers involves the presence of systems such as a water level transducer. Its functions are:

• adjusting the water level in the device;
• playback of a signal that will turn off the burner if the water is lower or higher than the level of the allowable rate;
• continuous type purge valve;
• electrical conductivity device;
• quick purge valve;
• a system that, through programming, can control the purge.

Such systems carry out both control of the operation of the device and the level of security.

Pellet boilers

Boilers of this type differ from analogues in that they use fuel such as pellets for their operation. This fuel is a pellet, the material for which is ordinary wood. This material, so to speak, is made by recycling. Pellets are made from sawdust or shavings. Such material is practically of no value, so its use for these purposes is fully justified.

Pellets are relatively inexpensive, so pellet-type boilers are quite popular.

The principle of operation of boilers of this type is as follows:

• They are capable of maintaining temperature regime;
• Fuel is supplied automatically.

The basic set of pellet boilers includes the following components:

• Boiler;
• Bunker from which pellets are fed;
• Automatic burner.

The boilers are distinguished by their not too complicated device, and the presence of a person is not necessary for their operation. These devices have a high rate of efficiency, and are also quite economical.

Smart boilers

Those users who have a smart home system are also aware of devices such as smart heating boilers. These modern devices have different systems for automatic operation, safety, adaptation to external factors. Programmers for heating boilers of the new generation electronically regulate the power - that is, the modulation of the burner flame goes on continuously with the optimization of the operation of the equipment, so that fuel is saved.

The heating boiler will be controlled by digital devices. Also provided remote control heating boiler.

To improve the comfort support system, a climate control unit is connected to the heating boiler. Typically, such a heating boiler controller is a digital weekly programmer, to which an outdoor temperature sensor is connected. Thermal sensors for heating boilers of this type smoothly change the temperature in the premises, depending on the temperature outside. Gsm module for heating boilers allows you to control equipment remotely.

The presence of devices such as thermostats for heating boilers is convenient and efficient. Indeed, in modern heating systems, the thermostat for the heating boiler will smoothly adjust the temperature in your premises, depending on the external conditions and the wishes of the inhabitants.

When choosing a gas boiler for heating a country house or cottage, many factors must be taken into account: the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe house to be heated, the number of circuits, the expected consumption of hot water (in the case of a double-circuit boiler), the possibility of connecting a heated floor circuit, etc. In addition, one of the most important aspects to be taken into account when choosing a boiler is the automation installed in it. In this article we will analyze the main functions of automation systems that modern boilers have. This will help you understand what these functional modules do in practice, what you really need from this, and what is not worth overpaying extra money for.

All automation components of gas boilers can be divided into two groups:

• Protective automation
• Automation for convenience

Protective automation

Automation units from the first group, as its name implies, are designed to protect the boiler and the room in which it is installed. These devices stop the gas supply in the event of an emergency.

Gas control

This is usually understood as "flame control" burners. When the burner goes out, the gas supply must be stopped. This is a basic protection function that is present in all boilers.

This automation module consists of two units: a gas supply valve and a thermocouple (Fig. 1).

Rice. 1 Thermocouple and solenoid valve

Thermocouple is a passive temperature sensor, i.e. does not require external power. It consists of two soldered conductors of various metals(Figure 2.). When the soldering point is heated in the conductors, a thermo-EMF is induced, in other words, a small voltage arises that is sufficient to open the gas supply solenoid valve.

Rice. 2 Thermocouple principle

That is why, at the first start-up of the boiler, you need to hold the ignition button for several seconds - the time during which the thermocouple has time to heat up and a voltage appears on it sufficient to maintain the gas valve in the open position.

Do not confuse: in the description of the boiler, this automation unit is usually called “gas control”, however, it would be more correct to call this function “flame presence control”, because. other automation units can also emergency shut off the gas supply, which we will consider below.

Boiler thermostat

Thermostat - a device necessary to maintain a given temperature of the coolant. It turns off the boiler when the set temperature is reached and turns it on when the temperature drops below the set threshold. The thermostat knob has several modes, each mode corresponds to its own coolant temperature.

Rice. 3 Thermostat

If the boiler has electronic control, the temperature can be set using the user terminal and displayed on the display.

The thermostat can be considered a device that regulates the operation of the boiler, but it also performs protective functions: protection against overheating and freezing. This is achieved by the thermostat having upper and lower threshold values. When the temperature of the coolant reaches the upper alarm threshold, the boiler switches off to prevent overheating. When the lower alarm threshold is reached, the boiler turns on at maximum power so that the coolant does not freeze.

It should be borne in mind that if “thermostat” is written in the list of technical characteristics of the boiler, it means the presence of a regulating thermostat. The overheating protection function is available in any boiler, even if it is not specified separately. But frost protection is present only in those boilers where this function is spelled out in the characteristics.

Traction control

The draft intensity must be sufficient to completely remove combustion products from the room in which the boiler is installed. With insufficient draft, combustion products accumulate inside the room, which is dangerous for human health. When the draft control sensor is triggered (Fig. 4), a control signal is generated to stop the gas supply and turn off the boiler.

Fig 4. Traction control sensor

When installing the heating system, the draft is checked by the master, however, the draft may deteriorate during operation due to many reasons (fouling of the exhaust pipe, etc.). Therefore, draft sensors are an important component of the boiler safety system.

Safety valve

Rice. 5 Safety valve

Required to discharge excess coolant from the system when its pressure rises above the permissible limit. This situation is possible with a sharp increase in the temperature of the water (coolant) in the system. This can lead to damage to the boiler and other parts of the heating system. Therefore, it is better to purchase a boiler with a built-in safety valve or install it separately.

Automatic air vent

During the commissioning of the heating system, air inevitably gets into it, which can be quite difficult to get rid of. In addition, air can accumulate in the system and during operation. It interferes with the normal operation of the heating system, creates noise and seething in the pipes. The air vent (fig. 6) automatically releases all the air accumulated in the heating pipes. It cannot be called a mandatory node, but its presence in the system greatly simplifies the life of the user. Therefore, the best solution would be to choose a boiler with a built-in air vent.

Rice. 6 Air vent

Automatic transition from an external power source to an autonomous power supply in case of a power outage in the network

This function is relevant only for volatile heating boilers. When the external supply voltage fails, the boiler can be powered from a backup battery for some time. Automatic input backup power especially important if the boiler is often left unattended by the owners. For example, in the case of a country house, in which the owners come only for the weekend.

After considering the automation modules belonging to the first group, only one conclusion can be drawn: you should not save on safety. When choosing a gas boiler, make sure that it has all the necessary protective functions. If some of the modules are missing, and the boiler where they are is much more expensive - find out if these modules can be delivered to the heating system separately. Perhaps this will save you money.

Automation for convenience

The second group includes modules that allow you to completely or partially save the user from participating in the boiler control process. This automation provides a choice of optimal operating modes of the boiler, increasing its efficiency and energy saving.

Auto ignition

The boiler with auto-ignition allows you to ignite the pilot burner in automatic mode. In order to ignite the boiler without auto-ignition, the user usually has to press the piezo ignition button and hold it for a while, after which the igniter burns all the time. In a boiler with automatic ignition, the pilot burner turns off when it is not needed and automatically turns on when necessary. This makes the boiler more economical and more reliable.

Flame modulation

The presence of the flame modulation function allows you to automatically smoothly adjust the boiler power depending on the temperature that needs to be maintained in the room and the current hot water consumption (in the case of a double-circuit boiler). In order for the user to set the desired temperature in the room, the boiler must be provided with a mechanical or electronic (more often) setpoint. Also, the system must have a room temperature sensor, to ensure feedback. You can read more about smooth control in automation systems. . Such regulation provides the most economical mode of operation of the boiler.

Auto-diagnostics of the boiler

The "Autodiagnostics" module collects data on the operation of all sensors and executive mechanisms boiler, generates errors in the event of a malfunction of one of the nodes and displays them on the display in the form of a numerical code or in text form. For example:

“Error No. 04 No Flame” or “Error No. 06 Temperature Sensor Error (Hot Water)”.

The "self-diagnostics" module is very useful in diagnosing boiler malfunctions. However, this module is optional. Do not choose a boiler with
"self-diagnostics", if this significantly increases its cost compared to a similar boiler in which this module is not present. In the event of a breakdown, you still have to call a qualified technician to fix the problem. The diagnostic module, of course, will help the master in his work, but the cost of repairs will not decrease from this.

Gas boiler programmer

Rice. 7 Programmer

The programmer allows you to set the schedule of operating modes for a day, a week, etc. This allows you to save energy consumption when possible. For example, it is useful to lower the temperature in the house during the day when everyone is at work or at night in order to sleep better. And vice versa, the boiler can automatically warm up the room by the time the owners arrive.

External boiler control

This function allows you to organize external control of the boiler, makes it possible to integrate the boiler into "smart home" systems, organize remote control and control of key indicators using an external GSM module. This function also usually provides for the possibility of connecting additional equipment (room and outdoor temperature, thermostat, weekly programmer, etc.). If you do not plan to connect external control, it makes no sense to overpay for this function.

Domestic heating units using natural and liquefied gas, do not need constant monitoring by users. Combustion and maintenance of the required coolant temperature are monitored by electronic and mechanical units built into any heat generator by the manufacturer. Our task is to explain how automation for a gas boiler works and what types of devices are used in modern water heating installations.

The vast majority of boiler plants of this type are equipped with safety automatics that operate without an external power source (non-volatile). According to the requirements of regulatory documents, automation equipment must shut off the gas supply to the burner and igniter in three emergency cases:

1. Extinction of the flame of the main burner due to blowing out or for other reasons.
2. When there is no or sharply reduced natural draft in the chimney.
3. The pressure drop of natural gas in the main line is below the critical level.

For reference. The implementation of these functions is mandatory for gas boilers of all types. Many manufacturers add a fourth level of safety - protection against overheating. When the temperature of the coolant reaches 90 °C, the valve stops supplying gas to the main burner at the signal of the sensor.

AT various models gas from different manufacturers, non-volatile automation of the following types (brands) is used:

• Italian blocks EuroSIT (Eurosit) series 630, 710 and 820 NOVA (heating units "Lemax", "Zhitomir 3", Aton and many others);
• Polish devices "KARE" (heat generators "Danko", "Rivneterm");
• American automatic control devices Honeywell (heaters of the Zhukovsky plant of the Comfort line);
• domestic products of ZhMZ, SABK, Orion, Arbat firms.

Fuel supply system in the simplest AOGV devices equipped with ZhMZ valves. The burner is hidden in the lower part of the body.

We have listed the most common brands of automation, which are often installed on hot water boilers of the same company. For example, the Zhukovsky plant completes budget versions of AOGV devices with its own ZHMZ safety units, heat generators of the middle price category with EuroSIT devices, and powerful models with Honeywell automatic valves. Let's consider each group separately.

SIT Group Brand Gas Valves

Of all the types of automation found in boiler plants, EuroSIT safety blocks are the most popular and reliable in operation. They are recommended by companies - suppliers of natural fuels, including for replacing the old gas equipment of boilers KCHM, AGV, and so on. They work without problems as part of Polidoro, Iskra, Vakula, Thermo and others microtorch burners.

The exact names of the three models used are as follows:

• 630 SITs;
• 710 MiniSIT;
• 820 NOVA.

Connection sockets for thermocouple, main burner and pilot burner are located on the bottom panel

For reference. The SIT Group discontinued production of the 630 and 710 series, considering them obsolete. Replaced by a new automatic safety heating boilers - gas valves 820 NOVA, 822 NOVA, 840 SIGMA and 880 Proflame (battery operated). But old products are easy to find on sale.

In order not to bore you with the details of the design of automatic EuroSIT devices, we will briefly explain the principle of operation using the example of the simplest block of the 630 series:

Note. Older modifications of automation were not equipped with temperature sensors and ignition units, so matches were required to start the heat generator.

Scheme of connecting the automation unit to the gas burner

A membrane valve, which plays the role of a pressure regulator, is responsible for the normal supply of gas in the device. When it falls below a predetermined value, the fuel channel closes and an emergency shutdown of the boiler occurs. Other situations lead to refusal:

1. The burner and the wick that heats the thermocouple go out. Voltage generation stops, the solenoid valve closes the fuel passage.
2. If the draft in the chimney unexpectedly disappears, the sensor located in this channel overheats and breaks the power supply circuit of the electromagnet. The result is similar - the fuel supply is blocked.
3. In heaters equipped with overheating sensors, the electrical circuit is broken after the water reaches a temperature of 90-95 °C.

Automation for a gas boiler is divided into two main types:

• Non-volatile mechanical structures. They are simple yet highly effective. Such automation reacts to changes in the temperature of the water in the system.
• Volatile electronic devices. This is equipment that operates from an external source of energy, whether it be a network or a generator. This group includes a lot of innovative developments designed to make the boiler your everyday assistant.

Let's consider each of these groups separately.

Mechanical automation

Mechanical automation has a number of advantages. Firstly, this equipment, as already mentioned, is simple in design. Because of this, it is very reliable and practically does not break. And in case of failure, mechanical automation is easily repaired or replaced with a new one without significant losses for the family budget.

Secondly, such automation is cheap, which affects the cost of the boiler. It is self-contained in application, since it does not require external power sources for its operation.

Mechanical automation for a gas boiler is configured manually. The specialist sets the temperature range of the coolant. Such automation works on a simple principle. The temperature controller starts working immediately after ignition and reacts to changes in the parameters of the coolant. If the temperature of the water in the system drops, then the automation opens an additional gas supply to the main burner.

The design of the thermostat implies the presence of a rod made of a special material that reacts to a decrease or increase in the temperature of the coolant. In the process of changing the parameters of the coolant, the thermostat is lengthened or shortened, while regulating the gas supply to the main burner.

Often, a draft and flame sensor is included in the set of mechanical automation. These units are very important for the safe operation of the boiler. They turn off the gas supply if the burner flame goes out or the draft level decreases. Such sensors are often bimetallic plates that change their shape under the influence of temperature, thereby regulating the fuel supply in the system.

Electronic automation

Electronic automation for a gas boiler is distinguished by the complexity of designs and the variety of functions performed, among which the following are worth noting:

• Creation of safe conditions for the operation of heating equipment;
• Security maximum comfort in a heated room;
• Increasing the efficiency of the system;
• Improvement of environmental performance;
• Programming the boiler operation depending on the time of day or day of the week;
• Weather-dependent regulation of the boiler;
• Automation of control of various circuits of the heating system;
• Heating of the heat carrier for domestic needs.

All modern electronic devices operate on the basis of the solenoid valve principle, which is controlled by a microprocessor unit. Boilers with such gas automation are equipped with a special display, with which one or another mode is selected. Compliance with the conditions specified by the user will be “monitored” gas automation for boilers.

The standard list of functions that such equipment performs is as follows:

• Automatic start of the boiler;
• Burner power control based on information provided by built-in sensors;
• Stopping equipment;
• Emergency stop of equipment in case of detection of a certain problem.

In addition, some manufacturers, in an effort to expand the functionality of the equipment they offer, complete it with an antifreeze system, pump and three-way valve jamming protection, a troubleshooting system and a pump overrun. Among the most common electronic automation components for a gas boiler, an electronic controller, gas pressure switch, gas fittings, valves, and a display should be highlighted. In some cases, advanced technology is equipped with a pressure switch and a water level sensor.

Non-volatile boilers are not as expensive as units equipped with electronics. That is why a potential buyer, before making a final choice, needs to decide what he expects from a gas boiler. If you nevertheless decide to purchase a volatile unit that can give you maximum comfort, then make sure that you can provide the boiler with uninterrupted power from the mains or from a generator. Otherwise, the technique simply will not be able to continuously perform the functions assigned to it.

Types of automation for gas heating boilers

Attention! This system provides the ability to connect room thermostat, with the help of which the set temperature in the heated room is automatically provided.

The functions of modern automatic control systems have long been not limited to controlling the start and stop of the boiler, but also effectively provide diagnostics, signaling and power control of the heating installation.

The operation of absolutely any heating equipment is based on a uniform and constant supply of fuel. This is especially true for equipment running on natural gas, since there are problems with gas pressure in domestic supply networks. That is why it is important that all the processes occurring in the boiler, and in particular the gas supply to the burner, be monitored by automation.

What types of automation exist

All products that are currently produced in the category "automatic control systems for heating boilers" are divided into only two groups, namely:

• volatile types.
• non-volatile types.

Volatile devices need 12 V electricity to work, while the second type works without it.

Volatile automation

Volatile automatics for heating gas boilers are electronic devices whose main task is to regulate the supply of natural gas by closing or opening a tap. This device is quite complex, and manufacturers endow it with a number of additional functions. So, what can an automatic electronic network do:

• Visually show the operation of the boiler itself, the temperature of the heated water, and so on.
• In the case of a programmed mode or in emergency situations, stop the operation of the boiler.
• Using the installed temperature sensor, adjust the burner power.
• Start the boiler in automatic mode.
• Open or close the gas supply valve.

• Independently diagnoses heating, and detects malfunctions of parts and elements.
• Protects the heating system in case the three-way valve fails.
• Protects heating system from freezing. In the event of a sharp drop in temperature inside the house, the automation quickly starts the heating boiler.
• Controls and controls the operation of the pump.

So it turns out that this type is a safety automation for gas heating boilers. It is the use of these blocks that guarantees that the boiler will work without jumps, smoothly, in compliance with the exact temperature regime, and at the same time will not create problems during long-term use.

Particular attention should be paid to the diagnostic system. Its presence helps to prevent the occurrence of serious malfunctions. Accordingly, this allows you to save a lot on overhaul equipment.

Today, the market offers a variety of volatile devices. These are both programmable blocks and conventional ones that do not have program control. The convenience of the first is that you can set the desired temperature for a long period of time, about a week. After looking at the weather forecast, you can set the desired temperature for each of the following days, which will allow you to maintain a comfortable temperature in the house. In addition, these blocks allow you to program the temperature for day and night.

Non-volatile automation

Non-volatile types of automation include mechanical devices for monitoring and regulating gas combustion in heating boilers. When it is necessary to choose from two groups of automation, many consumers prefer the mechanical option. What is the reason?

• These designs are the cheapest.
• They have a manual setting, and this allows even people who are poorly versed in this to understand the regulation.
• The autonomy of such blocks, since their operation does not require a network connection. Even if the electricity is turned off for a period, it will be easy to regulate the gas boiler.

What is the essence of manual tuning? The device has a temperature scale from minimum to maximum. When you set the regulator arrow to a certain level, you set it to the boiler. After ignition of the boiler, the thermostat comes into play, which will regulate the set temperature level by opening or closing the fuel supply valve.

The thermocouple for a gas boiler built into the heat exchanger directly touches the coolant, and incorporates a special rod, which is made of a material that reacts to temperature changes. The main material for it is invar, which is an alloy of nickel and iron. Under the influence of temperature, the rod begins to lengthen or shorten. It is connected to a valve, which, under the influence of this rod, regulates the gas supply to the burner.

Today, manufacturers add two sensors to the mechanical automation unit:

• Flame sensor.
• Traction sensor.

Both devices immediately turn off the gas supply to the boiler if the pressure in the pipe drops sharply, or the draft suddenly drops in the chimney. The device of these sensors is based on the bending of a thin plate made of an alloy of two metals. For example, if the temperature is high, the plates buckle and hold the valve open. As soon as the flame has decreased, the plate straightens out and closes the valve. The same thing happens in the chimney with a draft sensor.

Automatic multiblocks

Today, thanks to scientific and technological progress, we can use devices that, with their compact dimensions, have wide functionality. This also applies to automation for gas boilers. Manufacturers offer users multiblocks that include:

• Burner valve. Usually this device has a two-stage action.
• Stabilizing gas pressure device.
• Traction sensor.
• Thermal sensor.
• Temperature controller.
• Combined gas valve.

Pay attention to the first valve. This device works in conjunction with a thermostat, which, using a temperature sensor, directly in the heating circuit controls the temperature of the coolant. This type of mini-block can be paired with a thermostat installed in the room. The thermostat controls the air temperature, and, accordingly, the temperature regime for the gas boiler. The use of such a bundle helps to adjust the operation of the heating boiler much more accurately.

Installation methods

• Wireless blocks.
• wire blocks.

What is the difference is easy to understand from the name itself. Wired units use wires or cables to connect to the boiler. This applies in particular to thermostats and sensors. If the installation is carried out in an already finished house, this option is not the best, since for installation it will be necessary to make open or hidden wiring. If the hidden option is chosen, then it will be necessary to ditch the walls, which will bring unnecessary costs. The wireless option is a much better solution, but also more expensive.

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