How to safely bleed air from a battery using a Mayevsky tap. Mayevsky tap: principle of operation and its impact on the efficiency of the heating system Mayevsky tap for aluminum radiators

Often in city apartments the temperature begins to drop due to the fact that the heating radiators heat up poorly. This happens due to airing of the system, because the heated coolant does not enter the device in full. For such cases, the Mayevsky crane is intended, the principle of operation of which we will consider in this article.

Mayevsky crane principle of operation (diagram)

Note! This is a generally accepted name, however, both in GOSTs and in various educational books this device is referred to as a needle air valve.

Let us add that this device has played an important role in heating systems for many years, because it was invented back in the thirties of the last century. Both then and today, the tap is used to remove air pockets from batteries.

Procedure for installation and operation of the Mayevsky crane

The Mayevsky crane, the principle of operation of which was discussed in this article, can be installed with your own hands. You just need to remove the side plug, which is located on the heating radiator. Then you need to screw in the device instead of the removed plug.

After installing the device, you must use it correctly if you want to increase its service life. As soon as the radiators have stopped warming up evenly, you must perform the following steps to remove air.

Step 1. First, clean the area around the radiator to prevent damage to valuable property during de-airing.

Step 2. Prepare a basin or any other container for water; You will also need a screwdriver.

Step 3. Insert a screwdriver into the corresponding thread that is located on the device, then rotate it smoothly (note - only counterclockwise!).

Step 4. When you hear a sharp hissing sound (this is air leaving the heater), stop rotating. Next, wait until the air has completely left the system and a uniform stream of coolant begins to flow out. Don't be alarmed if the sounds are too loud - this is quite normal.

Step 5. Wait until the liquid begins to flow evenly. Then close the tap by turning it the same way, but in the opposite direction.

Note! Be prepared for the air to escape from the system for quite a long time. In this case, all that remains is to substitute the basin and wait until it (the air) comes out completely.

If you did everything correctly and removed the air according to the instructions above, and the radiator still does not warm up well, then most likely it is simply clogged. In this case, there are two possible ways out of the situation:

replace the radiator;
seek the help of an experienced plumber.

Design and principle of operation

As noted earlier, if the radiators are not ventilated, then the hot coolant will enter there in an incomplete amount, as a result, the performance of the devices will significantly decrease. And with a device such as the Mayevsky faucet, the principle of operation is such that air bubbles are removed from the batteries of the central heating system; for this you only need a special key or screwdriver.

Note! Such taps can be installed not only on radiators, but also on heated towel rails.

The air vents described can come in a variety of models and modifications (we’ll talk more about classification later), but they all work on the same principle. Roughly speaking, this device is a conical rod that closes the through hole after screwing. If we talk about the materials that are used for its manufacture, it is exclusively brass and steel. The fact is that these metals are the most resistant to moisture.

We also note that, despite the seemingly wide variety of variations, Mayevsky taps differ from each other only in the diameter of the external thread. It (diameter) can be:

0.5 inches;
0.75 inches;
the smallest products that were previously found in cast iron batteries, and today - in floor-type radiators.

Retail price table

Name of product	Price including VAT, rub.
11B27p(m) with descent DU-15	134,6
11B27p(m)1 with Mayevsky crane DU-15	144,7
11B27p(m)2 with Mayevsky valve DU-15 with G 1/2 thread	144,7
Mayevsky crane Du-15	29,5

The Mayevsky tap, we repeat, is a body into which a cone-shaped screw is screwed in, and, in fact, the screw itself. When liquid is supplied to the system, air pockets very often appear, and under such conditions this device is irreplaceable. The main sign that the system is air-filled is that the radiators do not warm up enough, although the liquid in the system is heated. This happens due to insufficient volume of this liquid or low flow rate.

Depending on the configuration, the devices can be opened not only with screwdrivers, but also with keys. They are threaded, and to open and release air you only need to turn it counterclockwise 1/2 turn. After this, you will hear a characteristic hissing sound, indicating the release of air. Over time, liquid will come out along with it and when it flows in a uniform flow, you can turn off the tap. Agree, even a person who is far from heating systems can cope with this, because you only need to make one turn of the screw.

Mayevsky crane disassembled

Note! The air vent is a manual device, and its use is advisable in centralized heating systems. But if such a system is individual or closed, then it is recommended to install an automatic tap that autonomously removes air as needed. But we are getting ahead of ourselves.

Operation of the Mayevsky crane is extremely simple. It does not require any specific knowledge or special equipment. Moreover, the thread here is universal, so the installation procedure will not cause any difficulties either.

How is flushing and pressure testing of the heating system done?!

Over the years, the heating system will give off less heat than at the beginning, the reason for this is scale and various deposits in it. Ways to combat this

Video - Mayevsky crane principle of operation

Classification of Mayevsky cranes

There are several variations of this device, let’s take a look at each of them.

Important points during operation

If the device has not been used for a long time, rust may form on the threads. Consequently, the screw will be difficult to turn. Then, before turning, it is recommended to treat the thread with kerosene and wait five minutes.

Main advantages of the device

Well, the Mayevsky crane - we have already discussed the principle of operation, now let’s talk about the advantages. Of course, it is not the only one - other devices (ball valves, for example) can be used for similar purposes. But the described device looks more presentable.

If you practice air exhaust without a tap, there will be a risk of flooding the neighbors below with hot liquid. And this promises not only high-profile scandals, but also material costs for compensation. And if you install a Mayevsky crane, then such problems will be completely eliminated.

A manual faucet also has advantages when compared to an automatic one. So, the latter very often become clogged with dirt and impurities from the system, which is why they may one day fail at the wrong time. But the manual tap is reliable and easy to use, and a special seal on the thread allows it to be installed on all types of batteries.

If you use the device correctly, you can quickly remove air from the system of the entire building. Finally, with such a faucet you will significantly save on heating costs, since the radiators will not be cooled due to the presence of air. This way the room will be heated constantly and evenly, and therefore there is no need to use additional heat sources.

Video - About the efficiency of the Mayevsky crane

Features of choosing an air vent

If you are interested in which faucet to choose, then, alas, we cannot say anything specific - everything in this case depends on the specific type of heating system. If the system is an individual type, then you can use any device, so rely on your personal preferences here. And if the system is central, then it is better to install a faucet with a fuse (we have already explained why above).

A manual device is recommended for those who can bleed air from the line themselves.
Fused devices, as just noted, are ideal for central systems.
Automatic devices are very unreliable, as they not only often clog, but also refuse to work for unknown reasons.

Note! As for the difference in price, in reality it is not as big as it might seem at first glance. For this reason, the cost factor is hardly decisive in this case.

As a conclusion

Whether to use Mayevsky taps, the operating principle of which we have disassembled, or ordinary water intake taps, is entirely up to you. Under normal conditions they will not cause any harm, but installing the Mayevsky tap during the heating season will be very difficult. Therefore, plan everything in advance, even where the circulation pump will be used. Good luck with your work!

The Mayevsky crane is a device that was developed more than 80 years ago, but is actively used even today. It makes it easier to bleed air from radiators and heated towel rails. In some cases, the presence of this element can determine the efficiency of the entire water heating system.

Mayevsky crane - what is it?

Regardless of what water treatment measures were applied before the coolant was supplied to the network, a certain amount of air dissolved in it enters the system along with the liquid. In areas of low pressure and movement, it forms bubbles, which can accumulate and create blood clots, preventing normal water circulation. The Mayevsky valve is designed to bleed this air, preventing the formation of blood clots in the system.

The Mayevsky crane itself has very compact dimensions and an extremely simple principle of operation. For a better understanding of what it is, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the photo of this device:

Picture 1 -

Figure 2 –

It is worth noting that the name “Maevsky Crane” is an exclusively everyday name and is rarely used in official sources. In regulatory documents, such a device is called a radiator needle air valve.

Design and principle of operation

Manufacturers offer many modifications of Mayevsky cranes - they differ in their shape, number of components, etc. However, their operating principle remains unchanged.

Initially, the now classic design of the Mayevsky crane involved two structural elements:

conical screw;
metal case.

Both elements fit tightly to each other, which was achieved by high-precision calibration and made it possible to reliably hold the coolant inside. The hole for bleeding air was usually located on the side.

Of course, modern versions of the Mayevsky tap have a more complex design, which is due to the presence of gaskets, decorative trims and plugs. Schematically, the element can be represented in the following form (the figure shows a tap that is used on a heated towel rail):

The operating principle of the Mayevsky crane is quite simple:

The conical screw is turned, the head of which comes out;
The bleeder hole opens through which the air is released.

In vertical heating systems, a Mayevsky tap must be installed on all radiators on the upper floor. If a horizontal system is installed in the house, then such an element is recommended to be used on all floors.

GOST

Due to the fact that the Mayevsky valve or radiator needle air valve is a standardized product, there are also certificates that confirm its satisfaction of all established standards. In accordance with technical regulatory documentation, the product must meet the following requirements:

Working environment. The Mayevsky crane should be divided into types depending on the system in which it is installed. Accordingly, there are valves designed to work with drinking and technical liquids, as well as valves working with steam and compressed air.
Temperature. The operating temperature for the Mayevsky tap should be 100-120 degrees, although some modern devices can easily function at 150 degrees.
Pressure. In accordance with GOSTs, namely GOST 356-80, Mayevsky taps must withstand pressures of 1.0 and 1.6 MPa. This indicator indicates what operating pressure of the environment the element can withstand throughout the entire period of its operation.
Thread type. This characteristic is very important when installing a faucet, because all pipeline elements must fit together clearly and not leak. This is why thread standards were introduced. Typically, products are found with 1, 1/2 or 3/4 inch external threads. If we talk about metric threads, then they are 10 mm in increments of 1 mm.
Material. As a rule, brass or steel 20 is used to make a Mayevsky tap, because these materials are sufficiently resistant to corrosion. The tightness class is directly related to this parameter. Typically, manufacturers do not indicate such information on the product, so it is worth remembering that the valve must have an A-class tightness, which is also specified in GOST 9544-93.

When choosing a product, the main thing to remember is that the faucet must meet all the characteristics of the system itself. Otherwise, it may fail or will not perform its intended functions.

The question of whether Mayevsky taps can be installed on cast iron batteries is controversial even among experienced plumbers. This is due to the fact that such elements are not suitable for use in radiators of this design. Of course, from the technical side, it is possible to install a crane on a cast iron battery. To do this, you need to cut a hole in the top of the plug, make a thread and insert the air valve itself. But even the most accurate work will not allow the device to work with high efficiency.

What is the reason for this? The ineffective operation of the Mayevsky valve is caused by the fact that the inner surface of cast iron radiators tends to crumble, which spoils the quality of the coolant. As a result, the tap will often become clogged. At the same time, hydraulic shocks are often observed in the systems, the strength of which can reach 15 atmospheres. Mayevsky's tap may not withstand such pressure and simply fly off the radiator.

Mayevsky tap for heated towel rail

Many people have encountered this problem when part of the heated towel rail remains cold. This is possible provided that the coolant cannot penetrate into certain areas of the plumbing fixture due to air “locks”. Their occurrence in “snake” heated towel rails is a fairly common phenomenon, arising due to the rather narrow passage diameter. A similar problem can be solved using a Mayevsky crane.

As a rule, in modern heated towel rails this element is included in the kit, but if it is not available, then it can be purchased separately. The main thing is to consult with a specialist who will tell you which faucet you need to take so that it fits specifically to your device.

It is not recommended to install the Mayevsky tap on a heated towel rail yourself. Despite the simplicity of such a device, its installation requires certain skills and knowledge, so it is better to contact qualified plumbers.

Mayevsky automatic crane

Mayevsky's automatic faucet in appearance is practically no different from a standard device with manual adjustment. Its main feature is hidden inside the body itself. In addition to the needle valve, the device contains a float sensor. It moves inside depending on the pressure that is applied to it. When it reaches a certain level, it moves, opening a hole through which air escapes. After this, the sensor returns to its original position.

The key advantage of such devices is that they require virtually no human intervention, but it is worth considering that they are more sensitive to blockages. Therefore, if Mayevsky’s automatic tap does not operate correctly, it should be cleaned. Even a regular sewing needle is suitable for this.

Despite the fact that Mayevsky’s automatic faucet operates without human intervention, air can be released manually. To do this, simply turn the needle valve using a hexagon or a special handle, depending on the type of device.

Some models of the Mayevsky crane cannot be activated without using a special key. On the one hand, this is a little inconvenient, because if you lose it, you will have to run to the store to buy a new one. On the other hand, this method of opening the tap has a number of advantages:

The presence of a four-sided key allows you to restrict access to plumbing fixtures without your knowledge.
The key has very compact dimensions, which allows you to use the crane even if it is difficult to access.
The key fits precisely into the seat, allowing you to open the tap without difficulty.

It is worth noting that there are models that can be opened without using a special key. Instead, a regular Phillips screwdriver or hexagon can be used. Mayevsky cranes are also quite widely used, which do not require the use of any extraneous tools at all. In them, a rotary tap is initially provided in the design.

If the Mayevsky crane is installed in a room with open access to unauthorized persons, it is recommended to use models with a special key. In this way, you can protect yourself from interference with the heating system. This is especially true if you have children.

How to bleed air?

Before releasing air through the Mayevsky tap, it is necessary to carry out some preparatory manipulations. These include:

Remove all valuables that could be damaged by contact with water away from the radiator from which air will be released.
Prepare a container in advance in which you will collect the water coming out of the tap.
When you open the Mayevsky tap, it starts to hiss - don’t be afraid of it. Water will not rush out of the radiator in a stream, because the drain hole in the valve is quite small.
If you are bleeding air from a forced circulation system, you must first turn off the pump. Otherwise, the air will not be able to rise to a level sufficient to exit.

After completing all the above procedures, you can begin bleeding air from the radiator:

Carefully and slowly turn the tap counterclockwise.
When air comes out of the hole and a hiss is heard, you can stop rotating.
Leave the tap open until water starts coming out of it. If the liquid comes out intermittently and with bubbles, this means that there is still a certain amount of air in the system. Wait until the stream flows continuously.

If after these procedures the battery does not become warm throughout its entire volume, it means that it is clogged. It is impossible to clean it yourself, so you will have to contact a specialist.

Video: What is a Mayevsky crane and where is it used?

More details about how it is used and why, on what principle it works, can be seen in the video:

The Mayevsky tap is a simple device that plays a rather important role in any heating system. Many experts recommend installing it, despite the absence of any problems with the coolant supply. In the future, the presence of such an element in the system can significantly simplify its maintenance, as well as repair work.

The low efficiency of the heating system in most cases can be explained simply: the batteries are airy. A small amount of air enters the system, accumulates in its individual elements and interferes with the normal circulation of the coolant. Solving radiators is not difficult - just install a regular Mayevsky faucet. With its help, it is very easy to remove excess air from the system, and the amount of coolant will remain unchanged.

How does this device work?

A small cylinder is installed at the top of the radiator or in another suitable location. There is a special valve inside the cylinder, which is controlled by a screw.

The Mayevsky crane is a small device that is easy to install and operate. To service the manual model, you will need some space in the radiator niche.

If you need to bleed air from the system, simply open the valve and then close it. This is the first thing to do if the radiator or some part of the heating system warms up less than the rest. If the heating temperature in the problem area soon increases, the problem can be considered solved. If the radiator does not heat up after bleeding the air, it is most likely clogged. You will have to dismantle the radiator, wash it and install it again.

If the system is operating in mode, the circulation pump must be turned off before bleeding. If this is not done, some of the air will be entrained by the coolant flow and remain in the system. After turning off the pump, you need to wait at least five minutes, and only then open the air vent. During this time, air bubbles will rise up.

After the air leaves the system, water will flow from the tap. This will be a thin stream with a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm. Therefore, even before you start bleeding air, you should remove things from the radiator that can get wet, and also stock up on a suitable container for water. To use the Mayevsky tap, it is not necessary to drain the coolant or dismantle the radiators. Having studied the principle of operation of the Mayevsky crane, you should pay attention to the design of individual models.

Design of various models of Mayevsky crane

Mayevsky's air vent is a device in the center of which there is a needle shut-off valve. The movement of the valve is controlled by a special tetrahedral screw. The outside has a standard thread size: ½, ¾ or 1 inch. The control screw is equipped with a head with a slot for a Phillips screwdriver. In addition, it can be rotated using a special key or regular pliers. There are several models of the Mayevsky air vent. Interesting information about this useful device is contained in the following video:

Manual model

This is the simplest and most reliable device that allows you to control the amount of air in the heating system. The simplest Mayevsky crane consists of:

durable brass body;
steel needle valve;
plastic casing.

The design of the device may vary: in some models the plastic casing moves in a horizontal plane, in others there is a special hole on the edge of the valve nut. In addition to the usual Mayevsky manual tap, two more varieties are produced: an automatic tap and a model with a built-in safety valve.

Mayevsky's manual tap can be installed on almost any radiator. To open it, you can use a special key, as well as a screwdriver or pliers

Design of the Mayevsky automatic crane

This device looks like a small metal cylinder with a hole in the top. Inside, in addition to the needle valve, there is also a sensor that operates on the float principle. The sensor responds to changes in the volume of air inside the tap. When a critical value is reached, the valve opens and releases the accumulated air, and then closes. For the operation of such a device, practically no human intervention is required; it is enough to simply install it in a suitable place.

Automated models are state sensitive. A narrow opening can easily become clogged, causing the valve to operate unnecessarily. You can remove such a blockage using a regular sewing needle.

What are the benefits of using a safety valve?

Mayevsky's air vent with a safety valve is a somewhat more complicated version of the manually operated model. The safety valve is sensitive to the coolant pressure in the system. If this indicator exceeds 15 atmospheres, the safety valve will open and begin draining the coolant from the heating circuit. This situation may arise in the event of a sudden, in which case the valve will prevent damage to system elements.

Whatever option you choose, we recommend that you buy all heating equipment from the Gipostroy online store - this is a time-tested supplier. So, at the link http://www.gipostroy.ru/catalog/category/klimat-i-otoplenie you can get acquainted with the current prices for heating devices and components.

How to choose the right device?

To choose the appropriate model of the Mayevsky crane, you need to assess the condition and capabilities of your heating system, as well as the features of the placement of radiators. Simple manual models are suitable almost everywhere. It should be remembered that some space will be needed to rotate the control screw: more - for working with a screwdriver or pliers, less - if the valve is opened using a special key. In radiator niches, space can be very limited.

Automated models will be very convenient precisely for such cases with limited access to the radiator, placed in a tight niche or hidden by a decorative screen. However, the use of automatic air vents is not recommended in houses with a centralized heating system.

Usually in such houses the coolant is so contaminated that the tap hole soon becomes clogged. The device will have to be cleaned once a month or more often, which will negate all the convenience of its use. In addition, interruptions in the coolant supply with centralized heating occur quite often, so more unnecessary air accumulates in such a system than with autonomous heating. The process of bleeding air through the two-millimeter hole may take too long.

For the same reasons, you should not install automated models on old cast iron radiators. For them, it is recommended to use special models in a brass case, for example, MC140 according to GOST 9544-93. This device tolerates temperature increases of up to 150 degrees and is suitable not only for systems with liquid coolant, but also for steam heating.

Air vents with a safety valve are recommended for installation in PVC pipe systems. These structures are sensitive to water hammer and installing a crane will prevent rupture. These models are also effective in central heating systems, which are often subject to sudden shocks.

Selecting a location and installation procedure

To install Mayevsky's air vent, simply screw a suitable model into the radiator plug on the supply side. Since the thread sizes on the device are standard, you must select a device with the appropriate thread. If the radiator has a plug without a thread, it should be replaced.

It is not difficult to make the necessary hole yourself on a cast iron plug. A hole should be drilled on the inside and then threaded on the outside. You will need an electric drill, a 9 mm drill, and a 10x1 tap with a driver.

The tap has a right-hand thread, and the plug has a left-hand thread. During installation, you should hold the plug with an adjustable wrench so that its thread does not loosen. It should be remembered that when screwing in the air vent valve, the plug is loosened. When unscrewing the tap (for example, to replace it), the plug is screwed in tighter.

When installing a Mayevsky tap, you should use an adjustable or gas wrench to tighten the device or hold the plug in which the tap is mounted

When installing the device, the threads should be reinforced with a special gasket. Such a gasket can be made of rubber or silicone, but it is not recommended to use paronite gaskets with a Mayevsky tap. Some prefer to additionally use linen winding or fum tape to strengthen the thread, but this is not necessary. Tip - when installing, you need to point the outlet slightly downward. This will make it more convenient to collect the water that will flow out of the radiator after bleeding is complete.

To install Mayevsky cranes, choose the highest point of the system, since the air rises upward. In this case, of course, it is necessary to take into account the design features of the heating system of a particular house or apartment.

With a vertical heating scheme, air vents should be installed on all radiators on the upper floor that have a lower supply with a return line. Mayevsky taps should also be provided to all devices whose supply (or part of it) to the riser is located below the upper axis of the connection, since in this case it will be naturally difficult to remove air from the system.

The diagram shows the installation principle of the Mayevsky tap for vertical and horizontal heating systems. A faucet is required in places where air accumulates

With a horizontal heating system, air vent valves are installed on all heating devices: radiators, collectors, etc. A heated floor system does not always require air venting, but very often such a valve still has to be installed.

The installation of an air vent on a heated towel rail deserves special attention. On models with a bottom connection there is even a special hole for this. But heated towel rails with side connections will have to be slightly modified. A metal tee with a thread of a suitable diameter is mounted on the supply line. In this case, the outlet of the air vent valve must be turned away from the wall.

To understand whether you need to install an air vent in a particular location, you should simply imagine the movement of air in the system. If it is clear that air can move freely further through the system, a valve is not needed. If air cannot leave the system naturally, you will need a special device.

Air pockets inside the heating system prevent normal coolant circulation and complete heating of the batteries. To remove these bubbles, two types of shut-off valves are used - automatic and manual Mayevsky valve, whose design and principle of operation we will consider in this publication.

Design and operating principle

First of all, let's explain what a Mayevsky valve is - a service valve designed for manually bleeding air at certain points of the heating system. A modern example of a faucet, shown in the drawing, includes the following parts:

brass body with nickel plated;
locking screw with a conical tip;
nylon cap with outlet;
O-ring made of plastic or EPDM rubber.

The plastic sleeve of the “air vent” can be rotated and the outlet channel can be directed in the desired direction

A calibrated hole with a diameter of 2 mm is drilled at the end of the body, and a connecting pipe thread is made on the outside. Inside the housing there is a chamber with a side exit into which a locking cone screw is screwed.

The tap operates on the principle of a needle valve - when the screw is tightened, the main hole is sealed with a cone-shaped tip. To ventilate the system, the screw is unscrewed, the cone opens the flow area, then the air along with water comes out through the side channel. The position of the outlet is adjusted by rotating the plastic cap.

Historical reference. The manual air separator was invented by the Russian engineer Ch. B. Mayevsky in the 30s of the last century. The invention served as a replacement for conventional water valves used to remove air pockets from centralized heating networks. The installation of new taps made it impossible for unauthorized withdrawal of hot water from the system.

What the old Soviet Mayevsky valve looks like is shown in the diagram. The official name of the plumbing element is needle-type radiator air valve STD 7073B.

Technical characteristics of Mayevsky air separators used in water heating systems of private and apartment buildings:

maximum operating temperature – 120 °C;
liquid medium – prepared water or (antifreeze);
operating pressure – up to 10 Bar (1 MPa);
connecting dimensions of pipe thread – ¼”, ½”, ¾”, metric – M10 pitch 1 mm;
The service life of a product made of high-quality brass is at least 30 years.

Note. For more extreme operating conditions, there are models of taps designed for a pressure of 16 Bar (marking according to GOST - Ru16) and a liquid temperature of +150 degrees.

Scope of application and types of cranes

Mayevsky manual valves are used for the following purposes:

First of all, removing air bubbles from heating radiators of all types - aluminum, steel and cast iron.
Venting air from heated towel rails.
Periodic de-airing of problem areas of the heating network - expansion joints turned upward, bypass loops (for example, above the front door), risers and other places where air accumulates.

Installation of air bleed valves is provided by all manufacturers of modern radiators. Heating devices are supplied from the factory with fittings (plugs) with a hole for the Mayevsky valve. The battery valve is selected according to the diameter of the external pipe thread - G¼”, ½”, ¾”.

Reference. The G¼” external thread of the air valve is identical to that of a standard pressure gauge.

If you need to organize air bleed in a problem area of the system, buy a Soviet-style valve with an external metric thread M10 x 1. The pipe wall is drilled with a Ø9 mm drill, the thread is cut with a tap, then a Mayevsky valve is screwed in and the joint is sealed with plumbing flax.

Another option is to cut a tee into the main line and install a slotted valve on the outlet pipe, as done in the photo below. The method will help with a cold (air-filled) heated towel rail that does not have a thread for an air vent.

Some models of heated towel rails have a slot for an air vent (photo on the left)

The operating principle of all Mayevsky valves is the same, but commercially available products may differ in design:

Faucets with a handle are convenient to use - the air can be easily released without any tools. On the other hand, anyone can turn the valve, including small children, which should not be allowed. Hence the recommendation - buy and install traditional products with a slot or a tetrahedral key.

Retro-style valves for designer batteries (left) and a small 1/4-inch “air vent” for a ball valve (right)

Reference. Manufacturers equip some models of ball valves with Mayevsky air vents. Here the option with a handle is more appropriate, and the valve with a G¼” thread can be removed and replaced with a pressure gauge or a plug can be installed.

Do not confuse “Mayevskie” with automatic float-type air vents. The latter are similar in principle of operation - the passage hole is also closed with a needle, but air is removed without human intervention. There are 2 types of such devices - universal (used in boiler safety groups) and radiator ones.

Valves for automatic air release - radiator and universal

Installation of "Mayevsky" on a cast iron battery

Installation of drain valves on the liners of aluminum and steel radiators is quite simple and does not require a detailed description. The valve with the rubber ring is carefully tightened with a small force of the key, then the nylon cap is turned in the desired direction. A valve with a wide plastic ring and a hole in a metal body is immediately fixed in the required position - with the outlet fitting downwards.

Another thing is installing a valve in a cast iron radiator plug of type MS-140. Some craftsmen make a homemade faucet - drill the fitting, cut a thread and screw in a simple bolt. The option is extremely primitive and inconvenient - when the bolt is loosened and the air is released, an uncontrolled leak will form.

How to install Mayevsky correctly without unscrewing the stuck fitting:

Advice. Drilling cast iron and cutting threads should not be done “dry”. Be sure to lubricate the tool with machine oil, otherwise the working edge will quickly become dull.

An easier way is to replace the standard liner with a new one, with a ready-made hole for the “air vent”. In this case, a modern valve with an external thread G½” (15 mm) is used. The main thing is to successfully unscrew the old battery plug. How to install “Mayevsky” on the MS-140 radiator, watch the video:

In conclusion - how to use the valve

During normal operation of water heating, manual air vents, as a rule, are inactive. The devices open in two cases - during the process of filling the system with coolant or for a reason (battery). How it's done:

Prepare a rag and a small container, such as a cut plastic bottle.
Place the container at the outlet of the drain channel and open the Mayevsky screw 1 turn.
Wait until the air (partially with water) comes out. There should be a steady stream of coolant coming out of the hole.
Tighten the valve and wipe up any spilled water.

It is better to fill the pipeline network and batteries together - the first person monitors the pressure and pumps up water, the second person bleeds air from the radiators.

From the author: Hello friends! Surely many of you have encountered a situation where the battery suddenly becomes cold. Sometimes completely, sometimes in places. There are also cases when the radiator in one room becomes much colder than in another, or all the radiators suddenly begin to hiss and gurgle with displeasure.

The reason for this is always the same - the formation of an air lock in the system. Special equipment - the Mayevsky crane - will help cope with this scourge. Moreover, the procedure is quite simple. We will tell you in today’s article what a Mayevsky tap is, how to bleed air with its help, and what the general principle of airing batteries is.

Causes of airlock

First, let’s figure out where the air comes from in a closed radiator, and in quantities that can affect the performance of the entire system. There may be several reasons for this:

incorrect procedure for supplying heating to the house. In a good way, this should be done slowly, and the air should be released repeatedly during the process;
violation of the tightness of any part of the heating system. In this case, air constantly gets into it, and the only way out of this situation is repair;
radiator replacement. After removing the old battery and installing a new one, there is always some air in the system. If you don’t bleed it off before starting, it will become a plug in the way of water. This, by the way, is the most common cause of the problem;
poor quality of the coolant itself. The air content directly in the water can be excessively high, and over time the whole thing collects in the same plug.

The most unpleasant consequence of this phenomenon is the lack of heating, especially if the problem occurs in the middle of winter. The heating radiator simply stops functioning. But the troubles don't stop there.

For example, air has a very bad effect on the metal from which batteries are usually made. In such cases, there is a high probability of corrosion, which can quickly destroy the equipment.

Another factor is temperature differences. As a result of the appearance of an air lock, one part is heated, and the second is cooled. Such changes, again, lead to the destruction of its elements.

The third problem concerns the bearings of the circulation pump. Their operation requires the presence of water around. Air provokes increased friction, so the circulation pump can quickly break down.

From the above, it becomes clear that it is necessary to deal with air jams. The easiest way to do this is with a Mayevsky crane.

Design and types of Mayevsky crane

Source: housechief.ru

The Mayevsky crane consists of several parts:

cone-shaped needle valve. When it is closed, the water is successfully retained in the battery. An open valve releases air that has accumulated inside the system;
adjusting screw - a part with which the needle valve opens and closes;
square wrench - needed to be able to turn the adjusting screw. However, in the absence of a special device, you can get by with a regular screwdriver;
the housing in which the needle valve is hidden. It is generally made from alloys using brass, which gives it excellent anti-corrosion properties.

These elements form the basis of the design. But there are some differences inherent in certain varieties. In general, Mayevsky cranes are divided into three groups: manual equipment, automatic and with a built-in fuse. Let's take a closer look:

manual is the same simple design described above. If necessary, turn the adjusting screw using a screwdriver or a four-sided wrench, the air is released, then the screw is screwed back in. The device is absolutely simple and reliable;
There is no needle valve in an automatic faucet; the role of this part is played by a float made of plastic. There is also no manual control system as such, but if necessary, you can still adjust its operation manually. The principle of operation is quite simple: inside the brass body there is a float that moves depending on how much air has collected in the system. When moving, it opens the shutter. The air is released through the latter. Then the float rises back, thereby blocking the corresponding hole;
a device with a fuse not only rids the system of excess air, but also controls the pressure in it. If this indicator increases to 15 atmospheres, a special valve in the equipment is activated, through which the excess is released. It is optimal to install such a device on pipes made from, since they themselves do not withstand too high pressure.

To choose the device that is most suitable for your case, you need to take into account some nuances, in particular the type of heating. If it is centralized, then it makes sense to install only a manual Mayevsky crane. As a rule, the water in such heating systems is very dirty, so automatic types of equipment will either quickly fail or require constant cleaning.

But for private homes, automation is perfect, because there the quality of water in radiators is at a completely different level. In addition, the crane will automatically save the situation in cases where it has to be installed in a hard-to-reach place: for example, in a niche whose walls will not allow access to the manual control screw.

For old cast iron batteries there is also a special Mayevsky crane with a manual control system. But the best option is to install a brass air vent with an automatic operating principle. Such products are highly durable and easy to use.

Installation and operation

Source: teplodvor.ru

The most important thing in the installation procedure of a Mayevsky crane is to choose the right installation point. You need an area in the upper segment of the radiator, located on the side opposite to where hot water enters the battery. This is where large accumulations of air occur.

Most modern heating radiators already have a special place for installing a Mayevsky tap. Before installation, it is closed with a plug. It must be removed after draining all the water from the heating system, and then secure the tap in the appropriate place.

In order to make the connection as reliable as possible, special rubber sealing gaskets are used. In addition, the threads must be lightly sealed using FUM tape or flax tow.

In old cast iron batteries, as a rule, there is no space for a Mayevsky tap, so the installation procedure will be somewhat more complicated. There is a large plug on the side of this radiator. It is necessary to drill a hole in it, and its diameter should be slightly smaller than that of the tap thread.

Then, using special dies, a thread is made inside this hole. Finally, the Mayevsky tap is installed and sealed in the same way as in the case of modern radiators. Do not forget that all work is carried out only in the absence of water in the heating system.

Let's move on to how to use the Mayevsky valve to bleed excess air from the radiator. Naturally, we will talk about the manual variety, since the rest work without human intervention.

As a preparation, place a basin or other empty container on the floor under the place where the work will take place. Also have a rag ready. When you release the air, water will flow out at a certain stage, so you should prevent it from getting on the floor.
If the performance of your heating system is ensured through the use of special pumps, then they should be turned off at least 10 minutes before opening the tap. During the operation of such pumps, the air does not have time to accumulate at a certain point; instead, it is spread along with the water throughout the entire system, so there will be no benefit from bleeding.
After preparation is completed, you need to very carefully unscrew the locking screw. This is done either using a special key included in the kit, or simply with a screwdriver. You need to turn it counterclockwise, about ¼ or ½ turn. Let us once again mention accuracy. You need to turn the screw very smoothly, especially if you are initially starting up a new radiator.
As a result of turning the screw, air will begin to escape through the tap. This moment can be determined by a specific hissing sound. You need to keep the faucet open until water flows out instead of air. At first, the stream will be intermittent - this means that the process is not yet finished. But when the stream becomes continuous, you can close the Mayevsky tap.

If after the procedure the batteries do not begin to heat up, this means that the problem is not the presence of air. Most likely, there is a blockage in the heating system. You won’t be able to deal with it yourself, so you’ll have to call a plumbing team.

As you can see, there is nothing complicated in the process of bleeding air from the radiator using a Mayevsky tap. But two problems may arise. Firstly, sometimes it happens that the hole through which the air should come out becomes clogged. In this case, you can simply fix the problem with a needle or something else thin and sharp.

Secondly, if you rarely bleed air from the battery, the adjusting screw may simply rust. It is clear that turning him around in such a situation will be problematic. In this case, you will need a special lubricating spray, which can be purchased at relevant stores.

Spray the screw thread with this product and wait a few minutes. After this, the unscrewing procedure should be painless. To prevent such situations in the future, each time after Mayevsky, treat the adjusting screw with a special silicone-based lubricant. This will help protect it from exposure to water and air in the heating system.

Even the simplest and most inexpensive Mayevsky crane can faithfully serve for many years with proper operation and care. So be sure to clean and lubricate this equipment periodically. In this case, the batteries will always reliably heat your home. Good luck!