Ion type heating boiler operating principle. Ionic boiler

CHARACTERISTICS OF ENERGY-SAVING ELECTRODE HEATING BOILER "ION"

Electrode boilers "ION" is the best solution for autonomous heating of the house. "ION" has a number of significant advantages:
equipped with a sensor for automatic heating temperature control;
Efficiency is close to 100 (98-99%);
low inertia makes it possible to quickly start the heating system to the desired temperature, as well as effectively use the automatic control system;
low sensitivity to voltage changes - when the voltage changes, only the power of the heating installation changes, but its operation continues;
the electrode boiler has relatively small dimensions;
low energy consumption - the coolant is heated in a matter of minutes by its full volume;
does not require additional approval for installation and operation from boiler inspection authorities.

Electrode boiler "ION" is a direct-acting installation (without the use of intermediate components). The liquid is heated due to the flow of electric current through the coolant. The heating effect occurs due to the disordered movement of coolant fluid ions from the cathode to the anode with a frequency of 50 vibrations per second (hence the second name for electric boilers - ion boilers). The chaotic movement of ions leads to the fastest possible increase in coolant temperature.

Electric boilers "ION" have the following advantages:
Layering of solid deposits (scale) on the electrodes and walls of the boiler does not lead to destruction of the electrodes themselves or the unit as a whole, but only weakens its power.
An ion boiler that is turned on in the “dry running” mode (no coolant in the boiler due to leakage) is absolutely safe, there is no conductor between the cathode and the anode - there is no heating, and the boiler will not fail.
oxidation processes are not observed due to frequent changes in the polarity of the electrodes (anode with cathode).

Electric boilers "ION" are much more compact than, for example, heating elements. Electrode boilers "ION" are leaders in the field of energy-saving technologies, energy consumption class - A. The warranty period is 3 years, but in fact "ION" can be used for at least 10 years, thanks to a very reliable design. New electrode alloy, which is produced thanks to the latest technologies allows it to be used for up to 30 years. The popularity of electrode autonomous heating systems for residential buildings has tripled in the last five years due to its efficiency and price-quality ratio.

Ion boilers have another indisputable advantage over their “competitors” - they do not require re-equipment of the existing heating system, and are easily installed into a ready-made heating system.

Characteristics of electrode boilers "ION":

1. One kilowatt of “ION” power heats 60 cubic meters. m. or (20 sq. m. with a ceiling height of up to 3 m.)

2. Duration of operation of "ION" in a water heating system from 1 to 8 hours a day depending on the temperature environment(automatic operating mode with a temperature sensor-relay), therefore, when heating an area from 40 to 750 sq. m. electricity consumption per day ranges from 2 to 288 kW/h
(depending on the modification, see the characteristics table).

4. "ION" during operation in a water heating system lifts the heated coolant to a height of 3 to 24 meters (depending on modification), due to big difference temperatures at the inlet and outlet of the electrical installation, allows you to heat single-story and multi-story rooms without the use of circulation pumps.

5. "ION" is suitable for different types of water heating systems.

6. The "ION" inlet and outlet are installed in the water heating system through plumbing couplings, plumbing adapters or plumbing hoses.

7. In a water heating system in which a boiler (boilers) is already installed, "ION" is mounted parallel to this boiler (boilers).

8. In a forced circulation water heating system circulation pump installed in the return line of the water heating system before the electrical installation.

9. All work on the installation of electrical installations in a water heating system is carried out in the same way as with conventional electric boilers, gas boilers, stoves, etc.

10. Electrical installation outlet temperature: up to 95°C.

11. Working medium (coolant): water and antifreeze liquids for water heating systems.

12. Operating voltage: 220/380V ± 10%.

13. Length (single-phase modification): 300 mm.

14. Connecting dimensions: inlet G1", outlet G1.1/4".

15. Length (three-phase modification): 400 mm.

16. Connecting dimensions: inlet G1.1/4", outlet G1.1/4".

The ION package includes:

1. Electrical device (“ION”) - 1 pc.
2. Temperature sensor-relay (thermostat) - 1 pc.
3. Passport (operating manual) - 1 copy.
4. Individual box - 1 pc.

How to choose the right boiler?

The “ION” electrode boiler is selected according to the following parameters:
- 1 kW of power of an electrode boiler can heat a room with an area of up to 20 sq / m, a volume of up to 60 cubic / m and 40 liters of water in the heating system.
For example, a 5 kW boiler can heat a room with an area of 100 sq/m, a volume of 300 cubic meters and with the amount of water in the heating system up to 240 liters.

You need to collect the following information:
1. Calculate the total area of the room in sq. m.
2. If the ceiling height is above 3 meters, you need to multiply the area of your room by the height of the ceiling and calculate the volume of your room in cubic meters
3. Calculate the amount of water in the heating system in liters, and determine what metal the heating radiators are made of.
4. Determine the power of your electric meter, circuit breaker and the cross-section of the electrical wire to your premises.
5. Determine the number of phases (1-220V/3-380V) that are connected to your premises.
6. Determine the presence of grounding in your room.
(It is prohibited to turn on electric boilers without grounding)
7. Determine whether the residual current device (RCD) is installed in your panel ( electrode boilers do not work in electrical network with RCD )
Next, you need to compare your data with tables 1,2,3,4 and decide on the boiler power. It should be noted that all the characteristics given in the tables apply only to premises built and insulated in accordance with DBN (state building codes) of Ukraine.
In order not to make a mistake when choosing a boiler, it is better to add up to 20% reserve to the calculated power.
For example, a 1-phase 5 kW boiler suits you - you order 6 kW.

IMPORTANT! It is also necessary to take into account the material from which your radiators are made; if the heating radiators are made of aluminum, you will additionally need to purchase a drug to increase the electrical conductivity of the coolant ASO-1

General characteristics of single-phase (220 V) modification of the "ION" electrode boiler

TECHNICAL DATA	MEASUREMENTS
TECHNICAL DATA	MEASUREMENTS

5.2. Type of current		single-phase, alternating
5.3. Voltage frequency
	m³ no more
	m² no more
	liters, no more
5.7. Coolant


5.10. Outlet temperature
5.11. Working pressure	(kg/cm²), up to
5.12. Average duration robots per day
5.13. Length
5.14. Height
5.15. Width
5.16. Net
5.17. Gross

General characteristics of the three-phase (360 V) modification of the "ION" electrode boiler

TECHNICAL DATA	MEASUREMENTS	ENERGY-SAVING ELECTRODE HEATING DEVICE "ION"
TECHNICAL DATA	MEASUREMENTS
		220/380 ~±10%
5.2. Type of current		single-phase, three-phase, alternating
5.3. Voltage frequency
5.4. Heated room volume	m,³ no more
5.5. Heated area	m² no more
5.6. Coolant volume in the heating system	liters, no more
5.7. Coolant		resistivity coolant at a temperature of +15 C ° not less than 1000 Ohm x cm.
5.8. Hot water lift height

5.10. Outlet temperature
5.11. Working pressure	(kg/cm²), up to
5.12. Average working hours per day		at the temperature of the coolant in the water heating system
5.13. Length
5.14. Height
5.15. Width
5.16. Net
5.17. Gross

Electrical characteristics of single-phase (220 V) modification of the electrode boiler "ION"

TECHNICAL DATA	UNITS OF MEASUREMENT	ENERGY-SAVING ELECTRODE HEATING DEVICE "ION"
TECHNICAL DATA	UNITS OF MEASUREMENT
14.1. Operating voltage
14.2. Type of current		single-phase, alternating
14.3. Voltage frequency
	Ampere, no more
14.5. Power consumption
14.6. Electricity consumption	kW/hour, from
14.6. Electricity consumption	kW/hour, from
	Ampere, no less
	Ampere, no less, no more
	Ampere, no less
14.10. Ammeter	Ampere, no less
	mm 2, not less
	Ohm*m, no more

Electrical characteristics of a three-phase (380 V) modification of the "ION" electrode boiler

TECHNICAL DATA	UNITS OF MEASUREMENT	ENERGY-SAVING ELECTRODE HEATING DEVICE "ION"
TECHNICAL DATA	UNITS OF MEASUREMENT
14.1. Operating voltage
14.2. Type of current		single-phase, alternating
14.3. Voltage frequency
14.4. Current consumption per phase (L)	Ampere, no more
14.5. Power consumption
14.6. Electricity consumption	kW/hour, from and to
14.6. Electricity consumption	kW/hour, from and to	The average duration of work per day is 8 hours. at a coolant temperature in a water heating system of 50-60: C
14.7. Single phase electric electricity meter	Ampere, no less
14.8. Single pole circuit breaker.	Ampere, no less, no more
14.9.Single-pole (double-pole) electromagnetic starter with thermal protection (contactor)*	Ampere, no less
14.10. Ammeter	Ampere, no less
14.11. Section of copper electrical wires	mm 2, not less
14.12.Specific electrical resistance grounding	Ohm*m, no more

* - type PM-12. PMA. PME. PMN. Hager ES. ABB. KMI, etc.

In this article: the electrode boiler is the brainchild of defense enterprises; how does an ion boiler work? is it possible to heat water without a heat source; we lower the ohmic resistance - add salt to the water; pros and cons of ion boilers; electrode boiler device; how to properly install an electrode boiler; which heating devices can be used in a circuit with an ion boiler, and which ones cannot; manufacturers and prices; Finally, there are the nuances of installing ion boilers.

How many ways do you know to heat a house using electricity? Most often, a boiler with a water heating element comes to mind - having high resistance, the nichrome thread inside such a heating element heats up, transferring heat to the tube filler, then to the metal shell and, finally, to the water. Why not simplify the task and heat the coolant, bypassing the intermediary, because you can do this using primitive electrodes from two razor blades, attaching wires to them and connecting them to the power supply? It was from this logic that the creators of the first models of ion (electrode) boilers, originally developed for the needs of the USSR Navy, proceeded.

History and principle of operation of the ion (electrode) boiler

This type of heating boilers was created in the middle of the last century by defense industry enterprises for the needs submarine fleet USSR, in particular - for heating the compartments of submarines with diesel engines. The electrode boiler fully complied with the conditions of the order of the submariners - it had extremely small dimensions for conventional heating boilers, did not require exhaust, did not create noise during operation, and effectively heated the coolant, for which ordinary sea water was most suitable.

By the 90s, orders for the defense industry had sharply decreased in volume, and at the same time, the military fleet’s needs for ion boilers were reduced to zero. The first “civilian” version of the electrode boiler was created by engineers A.P. Ilyin and D.N. Kunkov, who received the corresponding patent for their invention in 1995.

The operating principle of the ion boiler is based on direct interaction coolant occupying the space between the anode and cathode, with electric current. Walkthrough electric current through the coolant causes chaotic movement of positive and negative ions: the first move towards the negatively charged electrode; the second - to the positively charged. The constant movement of ions in a medium that resists this movement causes rapid heating of the coolant, which is especially facilitated by the change in roles of the electrodes - every second their polarity changes 50 times, i.e. Each of the electrodes will be the anode 25 times and the cathode 25 times within one second, since they are connected to an alternating current source with a frequency of 50 Hz. It should be noted that it is precisely such a frequent change of charge at the electrodes that does not allow water to decompose into oxygen and hydrogen - electrolysis requires a constant electric current. As the temperature in the boiler increases, the pressure increases, causing coolant to circulate through the heating circuit.

Thus, the electrodes installed in the container of the ion boiler do not directly participate in heating the water and do not heat up themselves - positively and negatively charged ions, split from water molecules under the influence of electric current, are responsible for increasing the water temperature.

An important condition efficient work ion boiler is the presence of ohmic resistance of water at a level of no more than 3000 Ohms at 15°C, for which this coolant must contain a certain amount of salts - initially electrode boilers were created under sea water. That is, if you pour distilled water into the heating system and try to heat it using an ion boiler, there will be no heating, since such water contains no salts at all, which means there will be no electrical circuit between the electrodes.

Characteristics of ion (electrode) boilers

Possessing inherent electric boilers positive characteristics, this type of boilers also has a number of its own. I will note all the advantages:

high efficiency, close to 100% (however, any electric heater has an efficiency of at least 96%);
extremely small dimensions with high power, compared to any other boilers;
no chimney required;
is able to independently increase the pressure in the heating circuit;
unlike boilers with heating elements, there is absolutely no danger of an accident if the level of coolant in the boiler tank is insufficient - a lack of coolant will only lead to the cessation of operation of the boiler, since there will be no electrical circuit between the electrodes;
extremely low inertia allows for efficient control temperature conditions during operation of the boiler using automation, the result is the least energy-consuming operation of the heating system - the temperature in the heated rooms will always be at the level set by the automatic controller;
Voltage changes in the electrical network do not harm the ion boiler - only its power changes, the operation does not stop;
installation of several ion boilers simultaneously is allowed as an additional source of thermal energy;
There is absolutely no negative impact on the environment.

Disadvantages of an electrode boiler:

consumes only alternating current, with direct current electrolysis of water will occur;
high demands on the electrolytic characteristics of the coolant; when they change, the quality of work (heat generation) decreases sharply. It is necessary to control the electrical conductivity of the coolant;
requires mandatory grounding (just like any heating device with a water heating element). At the same time, the risks of electric shock in the event of an insulation breakdown are higher than with heating element water heaters;
the heating temperature of the coolant should not exceed 75°C, otherwise the energy consumption of the boiler will seriously increase;
scale formation on the electrodes reduces the boiler’s power because it prevents ionization of the coolant;
high requirements for the quality characteristics of heating devices;
the need to equip the heating system with a circulation pump;
wear of the electrodes caused by alternating voltage, requiring their periodic replacement;
in an air-filled heating circuit containing a coolant-electrolyte, corrosion processes will accelerate many times over;
in a single-circuit system, the use of heated water for domestic needs is unacceptable;
commissioning work requires the involvement of specialists - to independently reduce the ohmic resistance of water with an increase in its conductivity to optimal level, almost impossible;
The electrical conductivity of the coolant changes during operation; it is necessary to control it, which means having the appropriate knowledge and equipment.

Design and installation of an electrode boiler

It has a fairly simple design, in which special attention protection against electric current leakage is given: a seamless steel pipe as a body, covered with an electrical insulating layer of polyamide; coolant inlet and outlet pipes; housing power supply and grounding terminals; electrode made of a special alloy (three-phase boilers are equipped with three electrodes), insulated with polyamide nuts; additional insulation with rubber gaskets at the connectors.

Externally, a household ion boiler has a cylindrical shape, its diameter usually does not exceed 320 mm, length - 600 mm, and weight - 12 kg. The lowest power is 2 kW (for heating rooms of about 80 m 3), the maximum is 50 kW (for heating rooms of about 1600 m 3). Single-phase boilers have a power from 2 to 6 kW, three-phase - from 9 to 50 kW. The energy consumption of the boiler reaches the nominal level (power declared by the manufacturer in kilowatts) when the temperature inside it reaches 75°C - at lower temperatures the energy consumption is lower, since the current conductivity is lower in a colder coolant. It should be noted that a temperature of 75°C is optimal for ion boilers, since with the development of more high temperature the energy consumption of the boilers will exceed that stated in the technical data sheet.

Complete with electrode boiler the system is coming automatic control (controller), which includes an electronic thermostat, automatic protection against power surges and a starter unit. Some controller models allow both direct control and remote control via GSM channels. It is the controller that provides the energy savings claimed by the manufacturers of ion boilers - unlike heating water using heating elements, electrode heating allows for more short term change the temperature of the coolant, because has low inertia.

In an open heating system with natural circulation of coolant, the latter moves up through the pipes due to thermal expansion and pressure in the ion boiler, enters the radiators and cools, then returns through the return pipeline to the boiler, where it heats up and repeats the cycle again. The closed heating system is additionally equipped with an expansion tank and a circulation pump, which is necessary at the initial stage of heating the coolant.

When installing an electrode boiler, it is a mandatory requirement that the heating circuit at its highest point be equipped with a safety group - an automatic air vent, a pressure gauge, and a blast (non-return safety) valve. In systems open type control or shut-off valves should be installed only after the expansion tank, i.e. The section of the pipeline between the boiler outlet and the expansion tank must not contain any shut-off valves! In closed-type systems, shut-off valves are installed on a section of the pipeline after the expansion tank and before entering the boiler. If, immediately after exiting the boiler, a safety group is installed, then the shut-off valves can be installed before the expansion tank - in this case, the expansion tank must be installed in the return section.

Ion boilers of any model are installed in the heating system strictly vertically, with their own fastening to the wall. The first 1200 mm of piping for the coolant supply to the boiler is made of a non-galvanized metal pipe, then the use of metal-plastic pipes is allowed.

Reliable grounding of the ion boiler is mandatory, since in case of current leakage this problem cannot be solved with the help of an RCD. The grounding copper wire must have a cross-section of 4 to 6 mm, its resistance should not be more than 4 Ohms - the conductor is connected to the neutral terminal located in the lower part of the boiler body. Grounding must comply with the requirements of the PUE.

Ideally, it is planned to install an electrode boiler in a new heating system, pre-flushed clean water. When inserting a boiler into an existing circuit, it must be thoroughly washed with water with special agents added to it - their list and proportions are described in the technical data sheet for the boiler; each manufacturer insists on the use of certain inhibitors. If this condition is not met, salt deposits (scale) will prevent precise adjustment of the ohmic resistance of the coolant.

When choosing heating radiators for a system with an ion boiler, pay close attention to their coolant consumption in liters - you need to find out how many liters one radiator consumes, then calculate the total displacement based on the required number of radiators. It should be noted that particularly capacious heating devices are not suitable, because... such a heating system will consume more than 10 liters of coolant per kilowatt of installed boiler power, which will force it to work non-stop, and this is not profitable in terms of energy costs. Ideally, the total displacement of the heating system should be about 8 liters per kilowatt of power.

Based on the material used, bimetallic and aluminum radiators are most suitable for heating systems with an electrode boiler. When choosing aluminum heating devices, an important criterion is the origin of the aluminum - whether it is primary (that is, obtained from natural materials - bauxite, alunite, nepheline, etc.) or secondary, melted from recycled materials. The problem is that cheaper radiators made from recycled aluminum are made of an alloy with a high content of impurities, which increase the ohmic resistance of the coolant.

In open heating systems, it would be correct to install heating devices made of aluminum with internal polymer coating, which reduces corrosion, such radiators are not needed in closed systems - corrosion processes are activated in the presence of air in the coolant volume, i.e. the salt content in it does not cause corrosion.

Cast iron radiators for heating systems with heating of coolant from an electrode boiler are least suitable, since they are heavily contaminated from the inside and dirt particles will affect the current conductivity. In addition, cast iron radiators consume a significant amount of coolant, which can exceed the installed capacity of a given ion boiler model - more powerful models will be required. Manufacturers of electrode boilers allow the use of cast iron radiators subject to the following conditions: they are manufactured according to European standards (i.e. in Turkey or Czechoslovakia); On the return line, before entering the boiler, sedimentation tanks (sludge traps) and coarse filters are installed in the pipeline.

Ion boiler - prices and manufacturers

Electrode boilers from the following manufacturers are represented in Russia and the CIS countries: the Russian JSC Firm Galan (brand of the same name), the Latvian LLC Stafor EKO (brand of the same name) and the Ukrainian SPD-FO Goncharenko O.A. (brand "EOU" (energy-saving heating installation)).

The cost of an electrode boiler depends on its power - a 2 kW boiler will cost the buyer 3,000 rubles on average. It should be taken into account that the set of necessary automation is usually sold separately - its cost will be about 6,500 rubles, i.e. twice as expensive as the boiler itself.

The warranty period for an electrode boiler, depending on the manufacturer, ranges from one to 2 years. The average service life of such boilers is about 10 years, provided that the operational requirements for the coolant are met and the electrodes are replaced in a timely manner (approximately every 2-4 years).

In conclusion

When creating a heating system based on heating the coolant from an electrode boiler, the following nuances must be observed:

The boiler's energy consumption is significantly higher if installed in a previously used heating circuit. It is better to install an ion boiler in a circuit created specifically for it;
when using antifreeze as a coolant, special attention should be paid to detachable connections, since its fluidity is higher than that of water;
all pipes forming the heating circuit should be wrapped in a layer of thermal insulation - this measure will make it easier for the boiler to reach optimal operating conditions;
if groups of heating radiators are located on different levels(floors) of the building, then more efficient, although less economically profitable, would be the installation of independent ion boilers of the required power for each group.

Ion (electrode) boilers are not suitable for heating systems such as “warm floor” or “warm baseboard”, since the temperature of the coolant circulating in them should not exceed 45 ° C - the boiler will not be able to reach the required operating temperature.

Rustam Abdyuzhanov, rmnt.ru

Initially, the ion boiler was developed for heating submarines. The expectation was that the device would be small and would work quickly and quietly. With electricity on nuclear submarines There were no problems, so the boiler must be electric. Like many other useful inventions, this unit migrated from the field of weapons to the civilian sphere and quickly became very popular.

Operating principle of ion heating boilers

An ion heating boiler heats water using electricity, but the operating principle is different from a heating element. In this process, the determining role is played by the ability of water to conduct current, or more precisely, the resistance of the liquid. Remember a boiler made of two blades connected by matches. In it, current from one blade to another is transmitted only through water, as a result of which it quickly boils. An ion boiler does the same thing, but instead of blades, it has magnesium electrodes.

When current ions pass through water, friction is created with the salts that are in the liquid. As a result of friction, the temperature rises sharply. The more intense the current, the faster the heating process occurs. In addition, the amount of salts matters, and ion heating boilers do not work with distilled water.

When water enters the boiler flask, an electric current is passed through it, causing it to heat up. The boiler itself is small, about 30 cm in length. Accordingly, the coolant is in it for some seconds, but even this time is enough. These devices can be called the fastest among all heating boilers.

Design of an ion (electrode) boiler

Ion boilers are very simple devices. Essentially, it is just a metal housing into which an electrode is inserted. There are no adjustments or moving elements in it, there is nothing even to break. They are:

single-phase;
three-phase.

In single-phase boilers there is one electrode, and in three-phase boilers there are three. The electrode is always supplied with phase (plus). Zero (minus) can be applied either to the housing or to the second electrode (if it is provided in the design). Grounding is also required to be connected to the housing. You can’t do without it, otherwise you’ll get an electric shock. It is important that the phase and zero electrodes do not contact each other. The only bridge for electricity should be the coolant. Naturally, the case has two holes for liquid circulation.

Which coolant is suitable for an ion boiler

An ion electric boiler is very demanding on the quality of the coolant. Distilled water is not suitable for it. As a coolant, you need to use ordinary tap water that has undergone special training. The heater's passport indicates how much salt should be contained in the coolant.

To “set up” the coolant for ion heating boilers, according to reviews, you need to spend a lot of time. For example, if the water resistance is insufficient, then it needs to be salted. Regular table salt is suitable. You only need to sprinkle a little bit of it, literally on the tip of a teaspoon. Then the salted liquid is passed through the system and the resistance is measured. If it has reached the required level specified in the passport, then you can leave everything as is. If necessary, add more salt to the coolant or dilute it with distilled water.

Piping an ion boiler in a heating system

As we have already said, an ion boiler is simply a flask with an electrode and pipes for connecting to the circuit. This unit does not contain any equipment that could regulate its operation, so everything necessary must be installed separately. In addition, it is necessary to install the required elements of the heating system, without which the operation of a sealed circuit is impossible. As a result, we need to install:

thermostat;
fuse block.

Naturally, you cannot do without shut-off valves (ball valves) and American valves so that the boiler can be removed from the circuit for maintenance. All contour elements must be placed correctly. The safety group is installed on the supply, behind the boiler. All other equipment is installed on the return line. A circulation pump is installed in front of the boiler, then a sump tank. Do not let any debris get on the pump impeller to prevent it from breaking.

It is imperative to make good grounding. Don’t joke with this, because we are talking about 220 W, and in three-phase boilers all 380 W can kill.

The expansion tank is installed in front of the pump, where the pressure is stable. Do not forget that the sealed tank must be adjusted, otherwise there will be pressure surges in the system. The thermostat sensor is installed on the return line, where it takes readings of the coolant temperature. You can also use thermostats that control the degree of air heating. This way, you can maintain the same temperature in the room regardless of the weather.

Power from the fuse box is supplied to the boiler electrode through the thermostat. The latter works like a switch. When the water reaches the set temperature, the circuit opens and the boiler stops heating the coolant. When the temperature drops, the thermostat closes the circuit and the boiler starts working.

Maintenance of ion boilers

There is nothing to break in an electrode boiler. Maintenance of ion boilers, according to reviews, comes down to monitoring the amount of salts in the coolant and cleaning the electrode from scale. During operation, scale accumulates on the electrode. It can be removed mechanically, for example, with a grinder with a special brush attachment or coarse sandpaper. It needs to be cleaned until it shines.

In addition, over time, the electrode decreases in size, and the aggressive environment corrodes it. Therefore, sooner or later it will need to be replaced. The main thing is not to miss this moment, since the operation of the boiler and the safety of all equipment directly depends on this.

In this article: the electrode boiler is the brainchild of defense enterprises; how does an ion boiler work? is it possible to heat water without a heat source; we lower the ohmic resistance - add salt to the water; pros and cons of ion boilers; electrode boiler device; how to properly install an electrode boiler; which heating devices can be used in a circuit with an ion boiler and which cannot; manufacturers and prices; Finally, there are the nuances of installing ion boilers.

History and principle of operation of the ion (electrode) boiler

This type of heating boiler was created in the middle of the last century by enterprises of the defense complex for the needs of the USSR submarine fleet, in particular for heating the compartments of submarines with diesel engines. The electrode boiler fully complied with the conditions of the order of the submariners - it had extremely small dimensions for conventional heating boilers, did not require exhaust, did not create noise during operation, and effectively heated the coolant, for which ordinary sea water was most suitable.

The operating principle of an ion boiler is based on the direct interaction of the coolant occupying the space between the anode and the cathode with an electric current. The passage of electric current through the coolant causes a chaotic movement of positive and negative ions: the first move towards the negatively charged electrode; the second - to the positively charged. The constant movement of ions in a medium that resists this movement causes rapid heating of the coolant, which is especially facilitated by the change in roles of the electrodes - every second their polarity changes 50 times, i.e. Each of the electrodes will be the anode 25 times and the cathode 25 times within one second, since they are connected to an alternating current source with a frequency of 50 Hz. It should be noted that it is precisely such a frequent change of charge at the electrodes that does not allow water to decompose into oxygen and hydrogen - electrolysis requires a constant electric current. As the temperature in the boiler increases, the pressure increases, causing coolant to circulate through the heating circuit.

An important condition for the effective operation of an ion boiler is the presence of an ohmic resistance of water at a level of no more than 3000 Ohms at 15°C, for which this coolant must contain a certain amount of salts - initially, electrode boilers were created for sea water. That is, if you pour distilled water into the heating system and try to heat it using an ion boiler, there will be no heating, since such water is completely free of salts, which means there will be no electrical circuit between the electrodes.

Characteristics of ion (electrode) boilers

Possessing the positive characteristics inherent in electric boilers, this type of boiler also has a number of its own. I will note all the advantages:

high efficiency, close to 100% (however, any electric heater has an efficiency of at least 96%);
extremely small size with high power compared to any other boilers;
no chimney required;
is able to independently increase the pressure in the heating circuit;
unlike boilers with heating elements, there is absolutely no danger of an accident if the level of coolant in the boiler tank is insufficient - a lack of coolant will only lead to the cessation of operation of the boiler, since there will be no electrical circuit between the electrodes;
extremely low inertia allows you to effectively control temperature conditions during boiler operation using automation, as a result, the least energy-consuming operation of the heating system is achieved - the temperature in the heated rooms will always be at the level set by the automatic controller;
Voltage changes in the electrical network do not harm the ion boiler - only its power changes, the operation does not stop;
installation of several ion boilers simultaneously is allowed as an additional source of thermal energy;
There is absolutely no negative impact on the environment.

Disadvantages of an electrode boiler:

consumes only alternating current, with direct current electrolysis of water will occur;
high demands on the electrolytic characteristics of the coolant; when they change, the quality of work (heat generation) decreases sharply. It is necessary to control the electrical conductivity of the coolant;
requires mandatory grounding (just like any heating device with a water heating element). At the same time, the risks of electric shock in the event of an insulation breakdown are higher than with heating element water heaters;
the heating temperature of the coolant should not exceed 75°C, otherwise the energy consumption of the boiler will seriously increase;
scale formation on the electrodes reduces the boiler’s power because it prevents ionization of the coolant;
high requirements for the quality characteristics of heating devices;
the need to equip the heating system with a circulation pump;
wear of the electrodes caused by alternating voltage, requiring their periodic replacement;
in an air-filled heating circuit containing a coolant-electrolyte, corrosion processes will accelerate many times over;
in a single-circuit system, the use of heated water for domestic needs is unacceptable;
commissioning work requires the involvement of specialists - it is almost impossible to independently reduce the ohmic resistance of water while increasing its conductivity to the optimal level;
The electrical conductivity of the coolant changes during operation; it is necessary to control it, which means having the appropriate knowledge and equipment.

Design and installation of an electrode boiler

It has a fairly simple design, in which special attention is paid to protection against electrical leakage: a seamless steel pipe as a body, covered with an electrically insulating layer of polyamide; coolant inlet and outlet pipes; housing power supply and grounding terminals; electrode made of a special alloy (three-phase boilers are equipped with three electrodes), insulated with polyamide nuts; additional insulation with rubber gaskets at the connectors.

Externally, a household ion boiler has a cylindrical shape, its diameter usually does not exceed 320 mm, length - 600 mm, and weight - 12 kg. The lowest power is 2 kW (for heating rooms of about 80 m 3), the maximum is 50 kW (for heating rooms of about 1600 m 3). Single-phase boilers have a power from 2 to 6 kW, three-phase - from 9 to 50 kW. The energy consumption of the boiler reaches the nominal level (power declared by the manufacturer in kilowatts) when the temperature inside it reaches 75°C - at lower temperatures the energy consumption is lower, since the current conductivity is lower in a colder coolant. It should be noted that a temperature of 75°C is optimal for ion boilers, since when a higher temperature develops, the energy consumption of the boilers will exceed that stated in the data sheet.

The electrode boiler comes complete with an automatic control system (controller), which includes an electronic thermostat, automatic protection against power surges and a starter unit. Some controller models allow both direct control and remote control via GSM channels. It is the controller that provides the energy savings claimed by the manufacturers of ion boilers - unlike heating water using heating elements, electrode heating allows you to change the temperature of the coolant in a shorter time, because has low inertia.

When installing an electrode boiler, it is a mandatory requirement that the heating circuit at its highest point be equipped with a safety group - an automatic air vent, a pressure gauge, and a blast (non-return safety) valve. In open-type systems, control or shut-off valves should be installed only after the expansion tank, i.e. The section of the pipeline between the boiler outlet and the expansion tank must not contain any shut-off valves! In closed-type systems, shut-off valves are installed on a section of the pipeline after the expansion tank and before entering the boiler. If, immediately after exiting the boiler, a safety group is installed, then the shut-off valves can be installed before the expansion tank - in this case, the expansion tank must be installed in the return section.

Ideally, the electrode boiler will be installed in a new heating system, previously washed with clean water. When inserting a boiler into an existing circuit, it must be thoroughly washed with water with special agents added to it - their list and proportions are described in the technical data sheet for the boiler; each manufacturer insists on the use of certain inhibitors. If this condition is not met, salt deposits (scale) will prevent precise adjustment of the ohmic resistance of the coolant.

In open heating systems, it would be correct to install heating devices made of aluminum with an internal polymer coating that reduces corrosion; in closed systems such radiators will not be needed - corrosion processes are activated in the presence of air in the coolant volume, i.e. the salt content in it does not cause corrosion.

Ion boiler - prices and manufacturers

In conclusion

When creating a heating system based on heating the coolant from an electrode boiler, the following nuances must be observed:

The boiler's energy consumption is significantly higher if installed in a previously used heating circuit. It is better to install an ion boiler in a circuit created specifically for it;
when using antifreeze as a coolant, special attention should be paid to detachable connections, since its fluidity is higher than that of water;
all pipes forming the heating circuit should be wrapped in a layer of thermal insulation - this measure will make it easier for the boiler to reach optimal operating conditions;
if groups of heating radiators are located at different levels (floors) of the building, then it will be more effective, although less economically profitable, to install independent ion boilers of the required power for each group.

Rustam Abdyuzhanov, rmnt.ru

Energy-saving technologies remain a priority in all areas. They show the greatest efficiency in the field of heating. This approach is associated with a constant rise in fuel costs. Equipment manufacturers offer various options execution of heating devices. One of them is anode heating boilers.

Design features

In order to understand what we are talking about, let us recall the student and/or military background of many of those who are now reading this article. It's about about the method of boiling water, for which some used a boiler, and others used a simple handicraft design. These are two blades, fixed at a short distance from each other and connected by a 220V power cord. When this “boiler” was placed in water, heating occurred literally within 2-3 seconds and violent boiling began. This is precisely the principle on which an anode heating boiler works.

Please note that conducting experiments with heating water is dangerous to life and health. On the one hand, a short circuit may occur, on the other hand, a person runs the risk of electrical injury (electric shock).

The convenience of using such devices lies in the fact that parallel installation of electrode heating boilers into an already existing heating system, which works, for example, with a gas boiler, is allowed. The coolant in both cases remains the same. But manufacturing companies produce not quite standard heaters, in which water is simultaneously used as both a coolant and a heating element.

The main elements of the module are:

steel tube;
inlet/outlet pipes;
terminal for connecting wiring;
heating electrodes;
high quality insulation.

Cathode heating boilers have a powerful steel body on the outside. The walls are made of sheet metal up to 4 mm thick. Several electrodes up to 20 mm are located inside the household structure. They are made of a refractory alloy that has a long service life.

Modern electrode ion boilers do not have an intermediary material between the anode and cathode. Heating from both terminals occurs directly from the coolant itself, water. Accordingly, there is practically nothing to “burn out” inside the cavity. The scale that appears on the tubes in electric electrode boilers after long-term operation is cleaned off with ordinary sandpaper.

What is the difference between electrode and heating element boilers?

The individual characteristics endowed with electrode heating boilers allow them to be distinguished from heating elements:

in heating elements, at the initial stage of startup, the working tubes are heated, and electrode boilers, made by hand or purchased in a specialized store, begin to heat the water immediately after the start, which reduces inertia;
ion heating boilers have positive reviews, as they are 20-0% more economical than devices with heating elements;
thanks to alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz, the electrodes move between the terminals and create a chaotic movement that promotes heating; this feature reduces the starting current for the electrode heating boiler, reducing the load on the electrical network

The difference between electrode boilers and heating elements

A do-it-yourself electrode boiler made or produced at a factory has smaller overall parameters than other household analogues.

Such features ensure significant distribution of this heating system.

What are the advantages of using

Homeowners do not have to completely give up gas if the premises already have wiring from radiators and mains installed. Often such ion heating boilers play a duplicate role in finished systems. Although, if the cost of gas rises faster, then they can be used as the main source of heating.

Their positive properties include:

high degree of reliability;
temperature controlled in automatic mode;
real efficiency reaches 99%;
installation additional equipment may not be carried out;
startup and operation in systems designed to operate on gas;
increased efficiency.

An electric electrode boiler operates exclusively on alternating current. Go to constant voltage not allowed.

Thanks to the built-in automation, the set optimal temperature is maintained for the specified time. You can increase energy efficiency by programming the system to lower the temperature on weekdays when no one is home, and raise it in the evening and on weekends.

According to reviews, electrode boilers have a good emergency shutdown system. If a possible coolant leak is detected, the device will automatically turn off. Also, short circuits do not occur in these heating devices.

The coolant for such equipment can be purchased directly from the manufacturer, who will provide the appropriate quality composition.

What are the disadvantages of using

In addition to the advantages, each system has its disadvantages. Ion electrode boilers have the following disadvantages:

increased requirements for electrolytic water quality;
it is necessary to carry out mandatory grounding of the device in order to reduce possible risks of working with an electrical device;
it is advisable to maintain the water temperature in the system no higher than 70-75 0 C in order to reduce energy consumption;
the cathode and anode need periodic descaling to ensure greater efficiency for the ionization process;
the system requires mandatory coolant circulation, so a water pump must be installed in it.

Voltage drops are not dangerous for the boiler itself, but they are necessary for the accompanying automation. A UPS or, at a minimum, a surge protector will help you avoid damage from an unstable network.

Rules for safe operation

The optimal water temperature for operation is 50-75ºС. This information is indicated in the device passport. In closed and open systems, expansion tanks must be used.

The outlet from the boiler to the expansion tank in an open system should not have any shut-off valves.

Do-it-yourself installation of an electrode boiler into the system must be accompanied by the installation of an automatic air valve, a pressure gauge for measuring operating pressure and an explosion safety valve at the highest point of the system.

It is possible to install it in the heating circuit as an additional heating source, but in this case it is necessary to bring the quality and type of coolant into proper condition.

Not all radiators can work with ion boilers, and the quality of the coolant is suitable for some. With very big reservations, cast iron radiators can be used.

When installing, one and a half meters of supply pipes to the boiler must be made of non-galvanized metal. After this section, the use of metal-plastic is allowed.

Grounding according to PUE standards is mandatory. The cable should have a cross-section of 4-6 mm. Its minimum electrical resistance must be no higher than 4 Ohms.

If possible, the entire system of pipelines and consumers should be flushed with clean water before installation. It is allowed to use special chemicals, helping to clean highways.

After the coolant has been used up, it must be properly disposed of. It is not allowed to pour it into sewers, water bodies or into the ground.

When making calculations, they are guided by the following parameter: 8 liters of coolant must correspond to 1 kW. To operate in the 10 l per 1 kW mode, the device will be turned on almost constantly, which may negatively affect its performance properties.

Let's make a brief overview of the most popular models of electrode heating boilers, which have already been rated by consumers, identified their strengths and weaknesses. When choosing such equipment, the brand name itself means little. Only in operation can you understand how well the boiler copes with the task, how often it breaks down, and what problems there are in operation. The purpose of this rating is to name the best Russian and European brands.

The best Russian electrode heating boilers

Big plus domestic technology the fact that it is perfectly adapted to real-life operating conditions - with voltage drops, unstable current, etc. At the same time, in terms of price, maintenance costs, unpretentiousness and reliability, it will give odds to most competitors.

The Galan company was one of the first to begin developing this family of heating devices, using developments in the military space industry and patented engineering solutions. For a quarter of a century, even the first line of devices has not failed and continues to function.

Model power 36 kW, suitable only for three-phase network. The maximum current for three phases is 27.3 A. The control is mechanical; the boiler is installed only on the floor.

This model “Vulcan” 36 has many advantages, let’s highlight the main ones:

ease of maintenance and operation.
safety and reliability - if an electric short circuit occurs, the current supply wires overheat, the set temperature is exceeded, or a coolant leak occurs, the boiler turns off.
the coolant volume is 600 liters, the volume of the heated room is 1700 cubic meters.
affordable cost - the average price is 11,000 rubles.

A safe and productive single-circuit electrode boiler, which is often preferred by owners of country property. Equipment power 15 kW, suitable only for three-phase network. The maximum current for three phases is 22.7 A. The control is mechanical; the boiler is installed only on the floor. As an additional option, it is possible to connect external control.

It is bought due to the following advantages:

Simplicity and ease of use - even a beginner can understand the device.
light weight of the structure and compact dimensions - only 5.3 kg.
large heating area - up to 180 sq.m.
electronic automatic control - the presence of a control unit that allows you to create an interval for heating the coolant.
ability to connect to a room temperature indicator.
The average price of the device will be 7800-8000 rubles.

Manufacturer LLC "Plant RusNIT", Ryazan. Can be used as a main or backup source heat in a house or domestic premises with an area of up to 80 sq.m. Power 8000 W.

Specifications:

three-stage power adjustment - 30%, 60% or 100%;
the heat exchanger and heating element are made of stainless steel;
antifreeze or distilled water can be used as a coolant in the system;
the presence of a thermal switch that prevents heating of the coolant above 90°C;
can be connected to a circulation pump;
Manufacturer's warranty - 2 years.

Among the disadvantages, we note the manual selection of power, difficulties during connection, requiring certain skills.

The cost of the unit is from 15,000 rubles.

The best European electrode heating boilers

It so happens that European brands deserve more trust from us. Objectively, some models are indeed an order of magnitude better than domestic ones, but lack of adaptation to our conditions makes them fail very quickly, and repairing them is not always profitable.

Model from a famous German brand, which is traditionally distinguished by its impeccable performance, high quality, reliability and durability. Power 9.9 kW, recommended for connection to a three-phase network with a maximum current of 15 A for three phases. Wall installation. The package includes a circulation pump and an expansion tank.

Let us highlight the main advantages of this device:

light weight and compact dimensions.
Easy installation - brackets included.
steel body with excellent thermal insulation.
Efficiency 99%.
The kit includes a 7-liter expansion tank, a circulation pump, a safety valve, a pressure control sensor, and a blocking sensor that protects the housing from overheating.

Minus - Buderus Logamax E213-10, like all German equipment, is designed for a stable voltage in the electrical network. Therefore, for long-term operation of the device, you need to take care of purchasing a stabilizer.

The cost of the unit will cost on average 38,000 rubles.

One of the best electrode boilers of the Czech brand, the power of which is 24 kW. The single-circuit model for wall mounting is distinguished by functionality, safety in operation and durability. Can be connected to a “warm floor” system or a boiler for heating hot water. The package includes 4 heating elements, a circulation pump and a 7-liter expansion tank.

Let's highlight a few more advantages of the unit:

electronic control with power indicator, display and thermometer;
4 power levels;
Possibility of temperature control in the range of 30-85°C;
overheating safety system;
high efficiency - 99%;
soft start function;
presence of a safety valve and air vent.

Of the minuses, it is worth noting that the boiler is too noisy and needs to be connected through a voltage stabilizer.

Cost - from 43,000 rubles.

One of the best electrode boilers of domestic production, which some users call a mini-boiler room - one device contains heating elements, membrane tank, circulation pump.

Note strengths device:

LCD display at the bottom of the case;
convenient control panel, which is hidden behind a special door;
the operation is controlled by a microprocessor, but the boiler can also be switched to manual control;
suitable for heating residential and industrial facilities;
silent operation;
emergency condition indication;
pressure and coolant level sensor.

Like any other device, the Evan Warmos QX-18 also has disadvantages - heavy weight, large dimensions, frequent capacitor failures, mandatory connection through a voltage stabilizer.

The cost of the device is from 49,000 rubles.

Polish-made electrode boiler with a power of 12 kW, capable of heating a room measuring 120 sq.m. The device is stylish and compact in size. Suitable only for a three-phase network with a maximum current of 20 A for three phases. A circulation pump is included in the package. Permissible temperature coolant 20-85°C, maximum pressure 3 Bar.

Let's note the advantages of the model:

Electronic microprocessor control system for the device.
Light weight - 18 kg.
High-quality protection system - against overheating, safety valve, air vent.
Self-diagnosis system - in case of any malfunction, an error code appears on the display, which can be deciphered according to the instructions.
Affordable price - from 39,000 rubles.

Cons: no expansion tank included.

The manufacturer's warranty is 1 year.

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