Which bimetallic radiators are better - expert advice

Fondital Alustal 500/100

The Italian brand confirms the stereotype that only quality goods are produced in Italy.The radiator is suitable for multi-storey buildings, industrial premises, perceives unstable or high pressure (up to 40 atm) and elevated PH (5-10) without harm to components. Mixed heating systems are not a problem for installation. Thermal power of 191 W ensures high heat transfer, while the cost of heating the coolant does not increase. Tests at ΔT 70K confirmed the value of 120 bar as burst pressure.

Two stages of painting are involved - anaphoresis as a preparation (adhesion enhancement), powder painting as the final stage. Anti-corrosion and chemical treatment is carried out, the appearance and structure of the material are protected. The 0.19 l section comes with a center distance of 5 cm, the coefficient (Km) is 0.6781. If the installation is carried out by a qualified master and the manufacturer's recommendations are taken into account, then the guarantee from the moment of installation extends to 20 years.

The most popular manufacturers

Features of the manufacture of metal radiators most often force the company to focus on the production of one type. For the Russian market, adapted products are most often supplied with appropriate internal processing (protective film, etc.).

With the onset of cold weather, the sale of aluminum and bimetallic radiators from such giants of the heating industry as Global, Royal Thermo and others is activated. Consider known models:

1. Bimetal devices from the Italian company Global of the Style, Plus and Extra series are designed taking into account Russian realities. They differ in rounded shapes, the presence of an additional convection rib. They have increased heat transfer - up to 190 W per section, withstand pressure up to 35 atm.The simple yet ergonomic design eliminates air pockets.

2. Royal Thermo BiLiner bimetal radiators have a stainless steel core that is neutral with respect to super-aggressive thermal fluids. Aerodynamic design, unique shapes of convection windows ensure high efficiency of the device and even distribution of heat throughout the room.

Aluminum devices of the same manufacturer of the Revolution, Indigo, DreamLiner series are made by casting with a two-layer powder coating. A wide vertical collector provides high heat transfer, the interior is treated with a special anti-corrosion compound. Working pressure - up to 16 atm.

3. Bimetallic Santekhprom BM are designed taking into account Russian centralized heating, have thickened core walls, pressure - 16 atmospheres, maximum - 23. The service life of the unit is at least 25 years.

4. The Russian company Rifar produces aluminum and bimetallic radiators with a wide center distance, which gives a high degree of heat transfer combined with a maximum margin of safety. Devices provide a flow from 100 to 200 watts. The Bimetal Basic series is intended for new buildings, the Monolith with welded seams is perfectly adapted for apartment buildings with a strong wear of the system. Aluminum radiators Alyum operate under pressure up to 20 atmospheres, have low hydraulic resistance to the movement of the thermal carrier, and are unpretentious to the composition of the liquid.

The cost of devices is an important factor in the eyes of a potential buyer. Often, high-quality products "sit" in one price niche due to special characteristics, an increased margin of safety and design.More details of the cost in Moscow and the Moscow region are presented in the table below:

Name	Country	Products	Price per section
Global	style plus	Italy	bm	600
Extra	bm	650
Royal Thermo	Biliner	Italy	bm	550
Revolution Indigo Dream Liner	BUT	500
Santekhprom BM	Russia	bm	540
Rifar	Basic	Russia	bm	480
Monolith	bm	620
Alum	BUT	420

The best parameters of bimetallic heating radiators for an apartment and significant disadvantages

The components of heating systems are exposed to various influences during use. Pressure and temperature change significantly. Scale accumulation creates particular difficulties. To remove calcium deposits, washing with an acid solution and hydrodynamic shocks are used.

In such conditions, cast iron radiators are still the leaders in terms of durability. The service life of such products exceeds 50 years, so it is not surprising that there are real “rarities” of the middle of the last century in apartments. Their main disadvantage is excessive inertia, which makes it difficult to use modern means of control and management. It should also be noted the large internal volume and limited resistance to pressure drops.

Bimetallic analogues retain their functionality and appearance for up to 20–25 years or more. The following table shows the average parameters for comparative analysis:

Options	Type of heating radiator
cast iron
Working pressure, atm	8−10
Crimping pressure, atm	14−16
Maximum coolant temperature, °C	+130
Heat dissipation at control temperature +70°C	165−180
Working volume of one section, l	1,3−1,5
Weight of one section, kg	6−7

Modern models of cast iron heaters with cast elements are used as decorations.

For long-term stability, in this case, really reliable supports are needed.Therefore, sometimes a floor mounting option is used.

Bimetal heating radiators have neutral aesthetic characteristics, which ensures a good match with different styles.

As indicated in the picture, if necessary, the product can be hidden behind a decorative screen. Previously, with a low prevalence, products of this category were expensive, but today the prices are quite consistent with the democratic level. The disadvantage is the noise that creates temperature deformations at the points of contact of parts made of different metals. But such manifestations are typical only for poor quality bimetallic heating radiators. Below in the ratings are products of responsible manufacturers.

Related article:

Advantages of bimetal

The popularity of modern bimetal radiators is not accidental. They are distinguished by a set of unique properties and advantages.

• The well-thought-out housing design is designed for maximum heat dissipation and free air circulation according to the convection principle.
• Radiators are assembled in sections, which makes it easy to increase or shorten them depending on the needs of the homeowners.
• Monolithic structures are characterized by the highest resistance to water hammer, complete elimination of leaks and a service life of up to 100 years.
• Bimetal batteries have an attractive design, are presented in a variety of colors and are coated with a two-layer coloring composition that is protected from damage and fading.

• The aluminum case quickly heats up and cools down just as quickly, which makes it possible to fine-tune the temperature using the regulator.
• The steel or copper collector of bimetallic radiators is able to constantly withstand a chemically active coolant.

• The devices demonstrate high resistance to heat and are able to withstand even 130 ° C.
• A well-thought-out connection system makes installation very easy.

Cast iron radiators for an apartment

Such heating devices are familiar to everyone, since bulky batteries, for the production of which cast iron was used, were used in residential buildings in the Soviet years. Now heavy heat supply units are becoming a thing of the past, giving way to modern and at the same time powerful, efficient and stylish counterparts.

Cast iron as a material has excellent thermal conductivity, heats up for a long time and also cools down for a long time. It is durable and reliable, able to withstand operating pressures up to 25 - 30 atmospheres.

Cast iron units are not dangerous water hammer, they are versatile and able to function with pipes made of different materials. If heaters are purchased for an apartment made of cast iron, it will not be necessary to replace the entire pipeline.

After prolonged contact with the coolant from the inside of the radiator, a black precipitate gradually accumulates on its walls, which forms a film that prevents oxygen from penetrating to the material of manufacture.

Provided that operating standards are met, cast iron batteries rarely fail as a result of metal destruction. Modern devices from the outside are covered with a special protective paint. Therefore, there is no need to paint them often. Due to the smooth surface, dust is almost not collected on them and gases are not formed inside. There is no need to constantly bleed air from cast iron radiators in order to remove air pockets.

Modern analogues differ in appearance and size. This circumstance greatly helps to solve the problem of how to choose a cast-iron battery to ensure a comfortable stay in the room and taking into account the design of the room. So products from foreign manufacturers, designed in retro style, are decorated with ornaments and castings.

The cast-iron heating structure, depending on the size of the room, can be increased. The number of sections to be selected depends on a number of parameters:

• the number of windows and doorways;
• squares of the room;
• climate features.

In domestic batteries, the filling volume is 1.3 liters, and in foreign ones - 0.8 liters. Products from such imported manufacturers have the optimal ratio between price and quality: Guratec, Demir Docum, Konner, Roca and others (read: “What makes a konner cast-iron radiator good - the advantages and rules for installing a Konner heating battery”). Russian and Belarusian products of the MS-140 and BZ-140 series have proven themselves well.

Previously, strong brackets were hammered into the wall to mount cast iron radiators, but today manufacturers provide floor mounting for stylish heaters.

Advantages of cast iron heating radiators:

• affordable cost;
• strength and reliability;
• compatibility with pipes made of various materials;
• simple and long-term operation;
• absence of corrosive processes;
• minor requirements for water quality.

Among the disadvantages of these heating devices should be called:

1. Heavy weight, which seriously complicates the installation.
2. For fixing on the wall, you need to use bulky brackets that may not fit into the style of the room.
3. Not all cast iron products correspond to the modern design of apartments.
4. Since cast iron has a low inertia, it cools down slowly, which is not always an advantage, since it is not always possible to quickly adjust the optimum room temperature.

In a private house where autonomous heating is equipped, the operation of such batteries is expensive. Therefore, their owners are so interested in the question of how to choose the right heating radiator for the house, taking into account its technical characteristics.

Manufacturers of bimetallic radiators

The market for heating appliances is wide and varied, so the question of how to choose a bimetallic heating radiator for an apartment is quite complicated.

The undisputed market leaders are the Italians, represented by the trademarks Sira, Global, Royal and others. These products not only meet international standards, but are also adapted to our domestic realities. Represented by a wide range of models, they are reliable and have a long service life.

But the products of Italian brands are one of the most expensive on the market, although the price for Royal products is quite attractive, especially considering the quality of the radiators. But it should be borne in mind that Global heating batteries are mainly designed for autonomous, closed systems, so their installation in city apartments is not entirely justified.

How to choose a bimetallic heating radiator

In cases where there is a desire to save money, they pay attention to products from Chinese manufacturers. But the low price equals a simpler radiator design associated with metal savings, as well as lower performance products and a rather ordinary appearance.

But the low price equals a simpler radiator design associated with metal savings, as well as lower performance products and a rather ordinary appearance.

If it is difficult to decide which company to choose a bimetallic radiator, then you can pay attention to the products of a domestic manufacturer, which occupy an average price niche and are distinguished by a fairly high quality and a balanced price. For example, RIFAR products under the Monolit trademark compete with Italian models, although they are cheaper in cost.

Among RIFAR radiators there are also devices equipped with thermostats and air vents. Among the products of this brand there are also non-standard products, for example, rounded

For example, RIFAR products under the Monolit trademark compete with Italian models, although they are cheaper in terms of cost. Among RIFAR radiators there are also devices equipped with thermostats and air vents. Among the products of this brand there are also non-standard products, for example, rounded shapes.

Another Russian company, presenting its products under the PILIGRIM brand, produces products not with a steel core, but with a copper one, which is more resistant to corrosion processes.

Sectional or monolithic bimetallic radiators

At first, bimetal products were always assembled from several sections. However, any sectional radiator can suffer from a coolant that damages the joints and reduces the life of the devices. In addition, joints are always a potentially dangerous place, which is more prone to leakage due to increased pressure in the system.Therefore, they came up with a new technology, according to which a solid steel or copper collector is made, and an aluminum shirt is “put on” on top of it. Such radiators are called monolithic.

Now let's try to find out which bimetallic radiators are better - sectional or monolithic. According to the technical characteristics, the advantage of the latter is obvious.

• The term of work is up to 50 years (for sectional ones - up to 20-25 years).
• Working pressure - up to 100 bar (for sectional - up to 20-35 bar).
• Thermal power per section - 100-200 watts (on the same level as sectional models).

But the price of monolithic devices is somewhat higher than sectional ones. The difference can be up to one fifth. And one more nuance: models with a solid core cannot be modified by removing unnecessary or adding additional sections, but at the same time they are available in various sizes both in height and in length. Therefore, it is not difficult to choose a radiator with the required power.

If the apartment is located in a high-rise building, the height of which exceeds 16 floors, then it can be assumed that the coolant pressure will also be significant, therefore, in this case, there is a need to give preference to monolithic models.

center distance

The center distance is the distance between the location of the lower and upper collectors. As a rule, the parameter is indicated in millimeters. Standard sizes are available from 200 to 800 mm. These options are usually enough to match the radiators to the wiring installed in the room.

More often on the market there are products with a distance between the cores of 500 and 350 mm. These dimensions are standard for most modern new buildings.Difficulties arise when finding narrow 200mm batteries that are well suited for a small kitchen or toilet, and wide 800mm products are usually only available on an individual order.

Sira Ali Metal 500

Italian equipment Syrah conquers with its power and versatility. They work with autonomous or central heating systems, installation schemes are divided into two-pipe, one-pipe, beam. For low-temperature systems, they are suitable due to the high heat transfer of 187 watts. The basis for the sections is a welded tubular frame, strong steel is filled with aluminum alloy under pressure with high performance. O-rings and reinforced steel nipples are used during assembly, the coolant is in contact only with the article, the surface is protected from oxidation.

Provided corrosion resistance and reliability of the radiator during operation. The inner frame is coated with a patented steel alloy, using aerospace Tech 3 welding technique. The outer surface of the case is also made of high-quality alloy - EN - AB 46100. The casting system is automated, which allows for high accuracy. The vertical strait is increased, one section heats up to 1.85 m2. The tests were carried out in the laboratory, in practice. To install 10 or less sections, you need 3 brackets, after 10 - 4 pieces (2 each at the top and bottom).

The best tubular steel radiators

Arbonia 2180 series of radiators

An elegant series of tubular steel heating radiators from a German brand, suitable for rooms with high ceilings.

Characteristics of the model range

A series of tubular steel radiators is available with 6, 8 or 10 sections. Side or bottom connection available. By color, the manufacturer offers two options: white or metallic.Construction height 1800 mm. Section length 45 mm. The model for 6 sections produces 990 W of power, weighs 16 kg. The largest radiator battery for 10 sections operates with a power of 1650 W and has a mass of 26 kg. All radiators of the series withstand a working pressure of 10 atm with a pressure test of 15 atm. The maximum liquid temperature is allowed up to 120 degrees. The manufacturer gives a 3-year warranty on the product.

Design features

• the main feature of the model range in a strictly vertical design;
• radiators have a two-pipe configuration;
• possible bottom or side connection;
• external thread for connection ¾ inch;
• construction depth 65 mm;
• center distance 1730 mm.

Series of radiators Purmo LaserLine 2180

Beautiful two-pipe steel radiators from a Finnish brand. The series is represented by 8 models and can be painted in one of 9 colors, including black, blue, gray or red.

Characteristics of the model range

A series of tubular radiators contains models with 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12 and 14 sections. The width of the most compact is 200 mm. Her heating power is at the level of 668 watts. The weight of this model is 11 kg. At the biggest radiator width reaches 700 mm, and the heating power is 2338 watts. But such a radiator will weigh 39 kg. The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty for all products. When testing, a crimping pressure of 18 bar is used, which allows the use of a working pressure of 12 atm. Liquid temperature is allowed up to 120 degrees.

Design features

• the shape of the radiators is vertical, but the edges are rounded, so the model gives more comfort to the room and fits into any interior;
• lateral type of connection (left-hand and right-hand);
• distance between fittings 1735 mm;
• section depth 63 mm;
• the height of all models is standard and is 1800 mm.

Series of radiators Arbonia 2057

Not high steel German radiators for installation under windows. They are distinguished by a small depth, so they do not stick out from under the window sills.

Characteristics of the model range

A series of tubular radiators is presented in more than 20 versions, where the buyer can purchase models from 3 to 30 sections. The company even produces separate sections, so the radiator can be grown if necessary. The heating power of each section is 67 watts. The section weighs 500 g and has dimensions of 570x45x65 mm. Crimping pressure reaches 15 atm, therefore, in normal operation, a constant load of 12 atm is allowed. The manufacturer gives a 10-year warranty on the product. It is allowed to use a coolant with an acidity of pH 7.5 and a temperature not higher than 120 degrees.

Design features

• the series is notable for narrow tubes, which helped to reduce the depth of the case to 65 mm;
• both bottom and side connections are possible;
• distance between fittings 500 mm;
• connection thread diameter ½ inch.

Series of radiators Zehnder Charleston 2056

Radiators of this series consist of two vertical steel pipes made in the form of a rectangular profile. This gives them elegance and distinguishes them from most competitors' products.

Characteristics of the model range

This series of steel radiators is available with 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 sections. The maximum indicator reaches 32 units. The parameters of each section are 48x56 mm with a depth of 62 mm. The structure is made of mild steel and weighs 890 g. The surface of the radiator is powder coated according to RAL, where 9 colors are available.The pressing pressure is 16 bar. The working indicator is at the level of 12 atm. The manufacturer allows a coolant temperature of 120 degrees.

Design features

• the increased distance between the sections contributes to the free passage of air and the accelerated distribution of heat in the room;
• bottom or side connection to choose from;
• center distance 500 mm;
• wall mounting;
• thread with a diameter of ¾ inch.

Rifar Monolit

These are products from a Russian manufacturer. The Monolit range includes about 22 bimetallic radiators. Rifar provides a 25-year product warranty. Radiators are positioned as for the most severe operating conditions.

The lineup

The model range consists of radiators including from 4 to 14 sections. Thermal power varies from 536 to 2744 watts. The height of the panels is 577 and 877 mm. One compartment weighs 2 kg. The radiator is able to work with various heat carriers (not only with water) at temperatures up to 135 C. Its walls can withstand a working pressure of 100 bar, and a crimping pressure of 150 bar.

Design features

The main design feature of these bimetal radiators is the patented technology of a one-piece interior, without nipple connections - this reduces the likelihood of leaks. Each section is flat and provided with a small vertical isthmus at the top. Inside, three additional ribs of the same height are implemented.

Other design features include:

• center distance 500 mm and 800 mm;
• lateral supply from any side, as well as bottom connection;
• connection diameter ¾ inch;
• internal volume of sections 210 ml;
• collector steel pipe with a cross section of 1.5 mm.

+ Advantages of bimetallic radiators Rifar Monolit

1. There are no traditional joints between the sections, so they are stronger.
2. High quality powder coating.
3. The ¾" outlet requires no adapters.
4. The outer panel is almost without gaps, so it hides the brackets well.
5. They perfectly tolerate dirty water from central heating - they do not deteriorate inside and do not clog.

- Cons of bimetallic radiators Rifar Monolit

1. Expensive for a Russian manufacturer.
2. Some users began to leak after 5 years of operation.
3. It is possible to request a free repair of a leak under warranty, but for this it is necessary to provide a copy of the act on putting the radiator into operation, which will indicate the pressure supplied for on-site testing.
4. There are options only with even sections 4/6/8, and with 5/7 are absent.
5. In some places, the edge from the molds, formed during the pouring of aluminum, sticks out.
6. Periodically come across defective threads.

Price range

The border between the lower and middle price categories for bimetallic radiators can be considered the mark of 400 rubles per section.

Cheap radiators are most often products of little-known Chinese companies; among them, there are also Russian-made batteries of not very well-known brands.

1. All such radiators belong to the pseudo-bimetallic class;
2. Quite often, manufacturers, in pursuit of cost reduction, reduce the thickness of metal inserts to the minimum possible value. Theoretically, this should lead to a decrease in the maximum pressure for which they are designed. It is possible, however, that some firms, especially Chinese ones, may artificially inflate this parameter.Therefore, buying cheap bimetallic radiators for city apartments is dangerous. For this reason, we will not include them in our ranking;
3. Sometimes a low price is the result of not very high-quality processing, broaching or painting of the body and internal parts. It's less risky, but still not particularly pleasant.

The majority of European countries producing radiators operate in the middle and premium price segment. These are Italy, Germany, Finland and many others. There are also the best Russian firms here.

How to choose the right bimetallic heating radiators, taking into account the connection and features of future operation

Some of the details are noted above. But it is necessary to summarize the knowledge gained in order to correctly formulate the selection criteria before studying the range of commercial enterprises.

Equipping a city apartment with an individual heating system will help create comfortable conditions and reduce operating costs.

Modern economical boilers perform their functions with minimal consumption of energy and fuel resources. Such equipment can be supplemented with bimetallic heating radiators. A mechanical filter and additional anti-scale protection will help extend the service life. In this option, relatively inexpensive sectional models can be used, since the owner can control the pressure and other parameters of the coolant.

To equip a standard apartment with connection to centralized networks, reliable bimetallic heating radiators made by well-known manufacturers are selected. In this case, it is necessary to carefully study suitable models. A review of the reviews that the current owners publish, taking into account personal experience of use, will come in handy.

The neutral appearance does not cause any significant difficulties in checking the conformity with the design. To hide the pipes, use models with a lower eyeliner. Do not forget about the additional costs for installing the pipeline inside the concrete screed and other building structures. With a lateral connection of a bimetallic heating radiator, the diagonal placement of the inlet and outlet of the coolant is more effective.

Which bimetallic radiator to choose

In conclusion, a few tips on how to choose a bimetallic radiator so that it does not disappoint, but justifies the hopes placed on it.

So, here are some obvious criteria by which you should choose this type of heating equipment:

• manufacturing firm;
• indicators of working and pressure testing;
• design reliability;
• ease of installation and connection;
• power and heat dissipation.

Well, having adopted the above information, you can safely get ready to go to the nearest specialized store and purchase a high-quality, stylish bimetallic radiator.

Global

Models of radiators of the Italian manufacturer have earned a good reputation in the CIS. The insides of the batteries are made of alloy steel, the outer part is aluminum alloy. They have all the advantages of high-quality bimetal. The disadvantages include a slight drop in heat transfer with a decrease in the degree of coolant.

The maximum operating temperature is 110 °C, pressure is 35 atm. The range is represented by the following models with a center distance of 350 and 500 mm:

• Global STYLE 350/500. Heat transfer of 1 section - 120 and 168 W, respectively.
• Global STYLE PLUS 350/500. Section power - 140/185 W.
• Global STYLE EXTRA 350/500.The heat output of one section is 120/171 W.

We draw conclusions and determine the type of radiator

Now, after comparing cast iron and bimetallic radiators, we can confidently say that in old apartment buildings up to five floors high, cast iron radiators would be a good option. The pressure supplied to the system, they can withstand. Naturally, if there are no powerful water hammers. But here you have a choice, and if finances allow, then of course you can put a more stylish bimetal.

If the apartment is located in a high-rise building, then the working pressure of the coolant will be significantly higher. Therefore, in this case, it is more reasonable to install bimetallic heaters that have a greater pressure resource.

Well, and about one more nuance. If you previously had cast-iron radiators in your apartment, you can change them to more modern cast-iron radiators and bimetallic products. But after steel or aluminum, it is definitely better to put a bimetal.

Having an autonomous heating system, you can install any of the radiators, but as a rule, it is most advisable to use steel or aluminum radiators in such systems.