Radiator Valves - cheapest prices guaranteed!

Radiator valves are attached to hot water heaters to guide the water flow into radiators. They are also used in one-pipe steam boiler systems, wherein they are positioned on the side opposite to the supply valve on the radiator. The air in the radiator is replaced with steam, thus allowing heated steam to flow into the radiator.
Radiators are generally used for heating buildings, as they are basically heat exchangers, allowing the transfer of thermal energy between two media. The construction of a radiator comprises several devices for liquid circulation through exposed pipes. A central heating system used to heat buildings consists of a single-pipe system or a double-pipe system. The former works with steam, while the latter works with steam or with hot water. The steam or hot water is generated in a central boiler, and then circulated using pumps via radiators placed within the building. In the single-pipe system, hot water from the furnace takes a looping path and returns as cool water. But, in the double-pipe system, hot water goes to the radiator through one pipe and comes back to the furnace through another pipe.
In the absence of a heating cycle, the radiator valve exposes the radiator to room temperature. But when the heating cycle is on, the valve allows the air within the radiator to be replaced with steam, thus pushing out the contained air. The heat sensitive valve closes up on heating, so that the steam is contained within the radiator. Therefore, it results in banging and hissing sounds of boiler systems.
Some important factors to be considered while purchasing radiator valves include size, material and design. These valves are available in different sizes, and the size determines the quantity and rate of air flow from the radiator. In order that a radiator produces the suitable amount of heat in a room, its valves are adjusted, which in turn adjusts the rate of steam flow, and balances the system. Specific materials are used in the manufacture of these valves, by adhering to stringent regulations. Suitable materials include chrome, gold, nickel and brass, while brass is more recommended and is prevalent as well.
There are two types of valves namely, thermostatic valves and manual valves. A thermostatic valve consists of a heat sensor attached to a thermostat. A manual valve is controlled by hand, and is usually coated with insulating material, such as porcelain to protect the fingers. Further, the valve design is categorized as angled and straight. Conventional radiators use angled valves, owing to the BOE (Bottom opposite end connections). Today’s designer radiator connections come straight from the radiator, which is placed on the underside, or positioned in the middle.
Manual valves could be useful for oversized radiators, and also for tasks such as warming towels. Thermostatic valves tend to reduce the radiator temperature as the building or room warms up, and thus saves a lot on fuel bills. Radiator valves are predominantly intended to control room temperature, rendering a good energy saving solution.