Automation for gas heating boilers: device, principle of operation, manufacturers overview

Household heating appliances operating on liquefied or natural gas do not require constant attention and control from the owners. This task is performed by automation for gas heating boilers.

Electronic and mechanical control units integrated into the heat generator regulate combustion and help maintain the required temperature in the coolant.

Varieties of automation for heating boilers

Automation works correctly, clearly and reliably, increases the efficiency of heating equipment, contributes to the rational consumption of energy resources and makes the operation of the heating system simple, comfortable and absolutely safe.

The automatic system protects heating systems from overloads and activates an emergency shutdown of the gas supply in case of sudden force majeure. In addition, the technique regulates the level of combustion intensity and current fuel consumption, allowing owners to save financial resources on space heating.

The automatic unit has flexible settings and allows the owner to set the equipment the most convenient working parameters

According to the basic principle of operation and design features, automation for gas-powered equipment is divided into:

• energy-dependent devices;
• energy independent appliances.

The systems of the first type are complex electronic units and for correct operation, which need an uninterrupted supply of electrics. The second types of devices are simplified mechanical structures that do not require energy recharge.

View # 1 - Volatile Products

Volatile module - This is a small electronic device that responds to the supply of a fuel resource.It turns on and off at the time of activation or closure of the main gas valve. It features a complex design and a large number of elements and microcircuits.

Allows owners to solve the following tasks:

• activation or shutdown of gas supply;
• starting the heating system in automatic mode;
• adjustment of the power level of the base burner (thanks to the presence of a thermostat);
• shutting down a working boiler both in emergency situations and within the limits of a user-defined mode;
• output of current indicators to the display (general level of air temperature in the room, mark to which the working coolant is warmed up, etc.).

More “sophisticated” modules have additional functionality and offer users unlimited and most convenient conditions for monitoring operation and controlling the unit. Electronic panels provide complete protection of heating equipment from malfunction three way valve and do not allow the boiler to freeze.

If the room temperature drops sharply, the “smart” system itself starts the heating equipment and turns it off when the house is filled with comfortable warm air.

The self-diagnosis option available for individual modules prevents malfunctions and contributes to the timely detection of defective parts and assemblies in the system. It makes it possible to notice a breakdown as early as possible and replace some small element even before it creates a real problem for the equipment.

Small breakdowns of the heating system as a result turn into global difficulties and entail monetary expenses associated with the repair and dismantling (full or partial) of the equipment. Self-diagnosis helps to identify a malfunction and makes it possible to fix it in a timely manner

Electronic automation, which is responsible for the safe operation of the equipment, ensures uninterrupted operation of the boiler, prevents the system from overheating and shuts off the gas supply in case of draft drop or flame attenuation in the burner.

The assortment line of volatile automation, presented on the market today, pleases with variety. Useful and necessary mini-units are produced by world famous brands and small companies, just trying to win their place in the sun.

Volatile automation is presented in the form of a control panel, where the user can set the parameters of the equipment that are convenient for themselves. The cost of a “smart” element is high, but the costs are justified, because with the help of a control unit you can reduce resource consumption without any damage to your own comfort

Among the offered models there are both very simple products and more advanced units with the programming option.

On them, the user can choose the most suitable for themselves individual settings and program the system to work in day / night mode or, focusing on the weather forecast, set a certain level of heating of the house or apartment for a period of 1 to 7 days.

View # 2 - non-volatile units

Non-volatile automation more simple and practical. Management and adjustment are carried out manually using mechanical rotary toggle switches and are not difficult even for those who are far from technology. The device works absolutely autonomously and does not need to be connected to the central electrical system.

To heat a residential building and supply hot water to the taps, it is enough to turn the control knob in the direction of increase by 2-3 divisions. If you want to take a bath or shower, the tumbler must be set to the maximum

The product is marked with a digital scale with a list of values ​​from minimum to maximum. To activate, the user selects the desired mark and in this way sets the appropriate operating temperature directly to the boiler.

After these manipulations is connected temperature regulator and takes control of the specified heating mode. The boiler works actively until the room warms up to the desired temperature. Then the temperature controller turns off the gas supply to the system and is activated again only when the room gets colder.

The principle of operation is based on the specific design of the device. The thermocouple of the gas boiler integrated in the heat exchanger is equipped with a special rod. It is made of a special iron-nickel alloy called Invar.

The physical characteristics of this progressive material give it the ability to almost immediately capture the minimum temperature fluctuations.

If the room becomes excessively hot or too cold, the size of the rod changes. The connecting valve responds to this and timely shuts off or activates the flow of gas into the burner.

The presence of a non-volatile automatic control system enables users to set the temperature regime that is most suitable for themselves in a house or apartment and economically consume fuel resources without overpaying for utility bills

Additionally, non-volatile type automation has sensitive traction and flame sensors. If the pressure suddenly drops in the pipe or the draft level in the chimney drops for some reason, the supply of the resource immediately stops and gas leaks can be avoided.

Non-volatile automation costs quite reasonable money and, unlike electronic counterparts, does not require the purchase and installation of a stabilizer that controls voltage and equalizes unexpected surges in the central power supply

Correct operation of the flame sensor provides a special plate. With normal and proper functioning of the system, it is in a slightly bent state.

In this way, the part holds the shut-off valve in "Open". When the flame becomes smaller, the plate is aligned and the valve closes under its pressure.

Design and function

Automation controlling the work gas boiler, consists of many elements, conditionally divided into two subgroups. The first includes mechanisms to ensure the full and safe functioning of the boiler itself. The second includes devices that make it possible to operate the heating system in the most convenient and user-friendly mode.

Security system components

Several modules are responsible for the operational safety of the unit:

1. Flame controller - consists of two main parts - the electromagnetic valve and the thermocouple. Timely and reliably shuts off gas and prevents leakage.
2. Thermostat - maintains the set temperature of the coolant and protects the system from overheating. When the coolant cools to minimum temperatures, the module starts the boiler to work, and after fixing the peak-high indicators, it turns it off, completely relieving the owners of the need to constantly pay attention to the system.
3. Traction control sensor, is responsible for stopping the gas supply to the burner in case of a change in the base position of the bimetallic plate, thus preventing gas leakage.
4. Safety valve - monitors the amount of coolant in the circuit.

In addition to all of the above useful qualities, automation has a number of additional functions that increase the comfort of using equipment.

The device performs auto-ignition of the gas burner, selects the most effective operating mode, contributes to the rational consumption of energy and conducts independent diagnostics, saving the owners from all these activities.

The principle of operation of security automation

Current regulatory documentation says that the safety system of gas boilers must be equipped with a device that stops the entire system and shuts off the gas supply in case of unexpected breakdown or any other force majeure circumstances.

To accomplish this task, automation should control such parameters as:

• gas pressure in the system;
• the presence of an optimal size flame in the burner;
• high-grade, high-quality traction;
• working fluid temperature level.

When in a non-volatile mechanical system the gas pressure drops to a critical level, the supply of the resource immediately stops. This happens automatically due to the presence of a valve mechanism tuned to a specific value.

Volatile electronic devices are designed somewhat differently. In them, the function described above is carried out by the minimum / maximum pressure switch.

As the number of atmospheres increases, the membrane with the rod bends, opening the power supply contacts of the boiler itself. Gas stops flowing and is not supplied until the pressure level is restored.

It is forbidden by law to independently troubleshoot and somehow interfere with the basic functionality of the equipment. Correct any problems that may arise only by a qualified specialist - employee of the gas supply company

If the flame disappears in the burner, the thermocouple cools down and ceases to generate current. After that, the electromagnetic damper in the valve no longer functions, and gas stops flowing to the burner. When the thrust falls, the bimetallic plate heats up intensively, changes shape and acts on the valve, causing it to stop supplying fuel.

The temperature of the coolant is controlled by a thermostat. It provides maintenance of the user-selected warm-up mode, while preventing the system from overheating and failing.

The nuances of the functioning of the system

Volatile electronic automation in operation relies on information received from sensors. The microprocessor and internal controller analyze this data, process and give the system commands that are optimally suited for a particular situation.

For electronic automation to function normally for a long time, you must call the wizard every year to inspect equipment, diagnose microprocessor and view memory module reports

Mechanics have a slightly different principle. When the boiler is turned off, the internal gas valve is completely shut off. At the time of starting the equipment, the washer on the valve is squeezed out and the passage for the fuel resource to the igniter is forced to open. Ignition stimulates the heating of the thermocouple and voltage generation occurs on it.

This resource uses an electromagnet to support the valve in the open position. By turning the washer manually, the user can adjust the level and power of his heating equipment without any effort.

Overview of popular models and manufacturers

In the market of progressive gas equipment and related components, automation is represented by both domestic and foreign manufacturers. By the principle of operation, all devices are absolutely identical, however, in terms of design, there are significant differences between them.

The presence of control automation in the gas heating system makes it possible to comfortably heat the room and rationally consume energy. With a reasonable approach, savings can range from 30 to 43%

The cost of the modules varies in the widest range. Simple mechanical products with a minimum of functions belong to the budget class and are sold at the lowest price. Advanced electronic panels are valued much higher, but provide the user with more advanced features for individual settings and control of work.

Some devices, such as SABK automation, in addition to the basic functions, are equipped with a built-in pressure stabilizer. This allows for more precise adjustment of the gas equipment

Programmable electronic devices are considered luxury. They enable the owner to ask the equipment a work plan for a long period of time, taking into account seasonal weather conditions and the current air temperature in the street.

No. 1 - EUROSIT 630 automation

The automatic non-volatile EUROSIT 630 block of production of the Italian company Sit Group (Eurosit) In sales, it occupies a leading position in the market.

It is considered universal and works effectively with parapet and floor boilers power from 7 to 24 kW. Switching on / off, ignition of the ignition burner and setting the desired temperature are carried out using one knob with a button.

The Eurosit 630 module is a modern unit for controlling gas equipment. Fully complies with international standards and safety requirements for such devices. It has a Euro-certificate of quality and a guarantee from the manufacturer

The product has a high level of reliability, withstands significant operational loads and has extensive functionality. Structural elements are “hidden” in the housing to which the sensor cables and other connecting tubes are connected.

The ignition time of the boiler using Eurosit 630 automation is 10 seconds. Gas is immediately supplied to the system and very soon the room warms up to the set temperature

Inside the unit are a shut-off valve, a spring valve and a pressure regulator. Gas is supplied from below or from the side according to the wishes of the user. At cost, the unit is included in the category of budget.

No. 2 - Honeywell 5474 module

Honeywell 5474 manufactured by a German concern Honeywell, more than a hundred years specializing in the development and sale of various types of automation. Works correctly with household gas boilers power up to 32 kW.

Honeywell 5474 is a non-volatile device for controlling a heating system. Equipped with microflame torches from heat resisting stainless steel. They provide better gas combustion, reduce the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere and do not allow excess soot to be deposited in the chimney

The Honeywell 5474 automation system is equipped with a basic set of monitoring functions that guarantee efficient boiler operation with absolute safety for users.

The product in auto mode maintains the specified coolant temperature (from 40 to 90 degrees), turns off the boiler in the event of a fuel cut, lack of draft at the desired level in the chimney, back draft or burner attenuation.

No. 3 - Honeywell Premium Automation

In addition to inexpensive budget models, the company Honeywell It also produces other types of automatic equipment, for example, luxury premium series chronothermostats ST or programmed Honeywell YRLV430A1005 / U thermostats.

The device YRLV430A1005 / U with the widest possible functionality has a user-friendly interface and does not cause customers any difficulties in the process of use. The cost of the product is quite high, but still lower than that of competitors offering models similar in characteristics

These electronic panels allow you to set the heating equipment with the most detailed and precise settings, up to changing the temperature several times a day depending on the time of day, weather conditions and personal wishes.

No. 4 - Orion device

Automatic device Orion It is made in Russia. The complete set of the device includes piezoelectric ignition and traction sensor.

The Orion device looks simple and has a minimal set of functions. Its capabilities are not too great, but, due to the loyal cost and elementary method of control, the unit is in demand

The device turns off the gas in the event of an arbitrary attenuation of the burner or the absence of the required draft. When the room temperature drops, the thermostat activates the fuel supply and the boiler resumes operation.

The transition to the flame reduction mode when a certain temperature (set by the user) is reached is automatic and saves fuel resource.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

A detailed description of the principle of operation of automation designed for a gas boiler. Interesting features and nuances of monitoring equipment:

How does the automation of a gas heating boiler work? A visual demonstration of the process of igniting a gas unit:

A detailed description of one of the most popular automation models designed to control and adjust a gas boiler:

Automated gas heating system is a practical and cost-effective option for home heating equipment.

The mechanical controller is notable for its low price, reliability and elementary control method. The electronic panel is more expensive, but has advanced functionality that allows you to create the most comfortable conditions in the room.

It is better to purchase mini-units in company stores where certified products are sold that meet all the requirements for elements of heating systems that run on gas.

Do you know the intricacies of the automation of gas equipment that are not noted in the article? Having questions while reviewing the material? Please write comments, share your own opinion and photos on the topic of the article.