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.