Heating network (definition)

Heating network — is a pipeline system designed to transmit thermal energy from a heat source to consumers such as residential and commercial buildings, industrial plants and other facilities requiring heating or hot water. A heat network ensures the delivery of a heat carrier (usually water or steam) from a central heat source such as a boiler house or combined heat and power plant to end users.

Heating network: main elements

  1. Heat source:
    • Boiler houses: They can be powered by solid, liquid, gaseous fuels, as well as renewable energy sources.
    • Combined heat and power plants (CHP): They establish the generation of electricity and heat simultaneously.
  2. Pipelines:
    • Hot pipelines: Pipes through which the coolant is transferred from the heat source to consumers.
    • Return pipelines: Pipes through which the coolant returns to the source for reheating or disposal.
  3. Pipe insulation:
    • It is necessary to minimize heat loss during the transportation of the coolant. Modern systems use thermal insulation materials to increase efficiency.
  4. Regulators and pumps:
    • Pressure and temperature regulators: Maintain optimal system operating parameters.
    • Circulation pumps: Ensure the movement of the coolant through pipelines.
  5. Heat exchange units:
    • Heat exchangers: Transfer heat from the network coolant to the heating systems of buildings, ensuring the transfer of thermal energy.
  6. Control and protective devices:
    • Shut-off valves: Regulate and limit the flow of coolant.
    • Filters and air vents: Protects the system from contamination and air locks.

Advantages of heating networks:

  • Centralized heat production: Enables the use of more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies at the source level.
  • Economies of scale: Centralized heat production and distribution can be more economical than local heating systems.
  • Reducing individual costs: Consumers receive heat at a lower cost than when using their own heat sources.

Installation and operation:

  • Design: Includes calculations to determine pipe diameters, pump capacities and other components.
  • Installation: It is carried out taking into account all the requirements for insulation and maintenance.
  • Operation and maintenance: Regular maintenance and monitoring of the system to prevent leaks, corrosion and other problems.

The heating network ensures efficient and reliable heat distribution over large areas, making it a key element in centralized heating and hot water supply systems.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

en_GBEnglish (UK)
This site uses cookies to improve your browsing experience. By browsing this site you agree to our use of cookies.