How to adjust a water pumping station. Setting the pressure in a pumping station with a hydraulic accumulator. Video: how to install a pressure controller

To automate the water supply using a pump, a special relay is used, which is powered by electricity. It is mounted in close proximity to the expansion tank. Correct adjustment of the relay allows you to reduce the number of on and off cycles, thereby extending the operating life of the equipment.

Basic device with additional elements

By its design, the device is a small block containing special springs. One of them is adjusted to maximum pressure, and the other to minimum. Their adjustment can be carried out using special nuts located on top.

A membrane is attached directly to the springs, reacting to changes in pressure in a certain way. At the minimum value, the metal spiral is stretched, and at the maximum, compression occurs. Thus, the contacts close and open.

The operating procedure of the device is approximately as follows.

At the initial stage, water is wasted from, which leads to a decrease in pressure in the circuit. When it drops to the lower threshold, the pump turns on.
Water is pumped into the main tank until it is filled to a certain level. As a result, the pressure increases. Once it reaches the upper threshold, the supply equipment is turned off.

Note! To find out the pressure in the membrane tank, you should unscrew the cap with the nipple, and then attach a special measuring device– pressure gauge.

Prices for some models

In fact, you can buy a water pressure switch for a pump for a relatively small amount of money. The table shows prices for popular models famous manufacturers.

Image	Manufacturer and model	Price in rubles
	Belamos PS-02	540
	Caliber RD-5	490
	Danfoss KP1	1 570
	Gilex RDM-5	900

As for the prices for electronic water pressure switches for pumps, they are approximately 2-3 times higher than for mechanical analogues. Such devices make it possible to more accurately adjust the operating range. In addition, they protect shut-off valves from possible water hammer.

Installation and adjustment of a water pressure switch for a pump

If you install and adjust the water pressure switch for the pump yourself, you will not have to spend financial resources directly on hiring professionals. The process of connecting and setting up the device is not difficult.

Related article:

If the water pressure is normal or even strong, then you simply need this device. You will find out why in our separate review.

Consideration of the connection diagram for the water pressure switch for the pump

The finished device is connected to the electrical and plumbing systems permanently, since there is no need to move it. For connection, a dedicated electricity line is not at all necessary, but is still desirable. It is recommended to connect from the shield copper cable cross section from 2.5 sq. mm.

The circuit must be present, since the combination of electricity and water is quite dangerous. The cables are inserted into special holes located on the back of the case. Under the cover there is a special block with contacts:

terminals for connecting the phase and neutral wire;
grounding contacts;
terminals for wires leading from the pump.

Note! Connection is carried out via standard scheme. A certain part of the insulation is removed from the conductive elements, after which the stripped edges are fixed with clamping bolts.

Setting up the pump station pressure switch yourself

To set up the system, you need a reliable pressure gauge that allows you to accurately measure pressure. According to his indications, adjustments are made. The whole process comes down to tightening the springs. When turned clockwise, the pressure increases and vice versa.

The sequence of steps for setting up is approximately this:

The system is started, after which the thresholds at which the device turns on and off are monitored using a pressure gauge;
Using a suitable wrench, the large spring responsible for the lower threshold is released or pressed.
The system is turned on and the set parameters are checked. If necessary, adjustments are made.
After setting the lower pressure level, the upper limit is adjusted. To do this, perform the same manipulations with a small spring.
Final testing of the system is carried out. If the results are satisfactory, then the setup process can be considered complete.

Note! When adjusting the water pressure switch for the pump, remember that the minimum range between the upper and lower thresholds must be more than 1 atmosphere.

About idle protection

In some cases, water may not pass through the pump, but it will continue to work. This mode of operation of the device is extremely undesirable, as it significantly reduces the service life. However, this only applies to devices with wet rotor, where water acts as a cooling and lubricating fluid.

To avoid equipment failure, it is necessary to install a relay that protects against dry operation. The contacts should open when there is no water and turn off the device. The engine of the device can only be started if there is a sufficient amount of water.

If water consumption from a well or well exceeds its supply, then idling cannot be avoided. In this regard, installing a water pressure switch will help to cope with this situation.

Idle detection can be calculated using one of several values:

pressure at the outlet pipe;
water level;
fluid flow through the device.

Helpful information! Protection of the device from idle operation in water supply systems country houses necessary. Most often it is used in conjunction with other automation devices.

Need to know

When installing high pressure suction equipment is turned on much more often, which leads to accelerated wear of the main parts. However, this pressure allows you to use even a shower cabin with hydromassage without any difficulties.

At low pressure, the device supplying liquid from a well or borehole wears out less, but in this case you will have to be content with an ordinary bath. It is unlikely that you will be able to appreciate all the delights of a jacuzzi and other devices that require fairly strong pressure.

Thus, the choice must be made depending on the goals being pursued. Everyone decides for themselves what to prefer in a particular case.

Summarizing

After installing and configuring the pressure switch pumping station You will still have to periodically monitor the system and adjust its operation. Experts recommend once a quarter to completely drain the water from the expansion tank and test the pressure. Correct operation equipment will allow you to avoid unnecessary costs for carrying out repair work and purchase of worn parts.

How to connect a pressure switch to a pump (video)

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Pumping station for a private house: water supply, types and installation features Water check valve for pump: types and features

The pressure switch is one of the important parts of the pumping station. It is responsible for the operation of the pump at certain pressure values. Periodically, the relay needs to be adjusted correctly. To do this, you should know how it works, its operating principle and technical characteristics.

Regardless of its small size, the relay significantly extends the service life of the pump and also ensures high-quality operation of the pumping station.

Peculiarities

When buying a pumping station, many people want to immediately become familiar with its structure. Each of its elements is of considerable importance. The pressure switch is directly responsible for turning the pump off and on when certain pressure values in the hydraulic tank are reached.

A pressure switch is an element that regulates the water supply in the system. Due to the relay, everything is turned on and off pumping system. It is the relay that regulates the water pressure.

According to the principle of operation, relays are divided into electronic and mechanical. Using electronic relays is easier in terms of operation, but the service life of mechanical ones is longer. Therefore, mechanical relays are in great demand.

Relays can either be initially built inside the pumping station or come separately. Thus, according to the characteristics, you can easily select a relay for efficient work pumping system.

Water inevitably contains foreign particles, and they are the main cause of failure of electronic relays. Therefore, it is better to use a special separate filter to purify water. The main advantage of using an electronic relay is that it prevents the pumping station from running idle. After turning off the water supply, the electronic device continues to work for some time. In addition, such relays are easier to configure and install.

Often pressure sensors have factory settings right away. As a rule, they are set to 1.5-1.8 atmospheres for switching on, and 2.5-3 atmospheres for switching off. The maximum permissible pressure value for the relay is 5 atmospheres. However, not every system can withstand it. If the pressure is too high, it can cause leaks, wear on the pump diaphragm, and other problems.

The initial adjustment is not always suitable for certain operating conditions of the station, and then you have to configure the relay yourself. Of course, for proper adjustment, it is best to become more familiar with what this small device is and how it works.

Device principle

The most common mechanical pressure switch for a pumping station is a metal plate with a contact group on top, two spring-loaded regulators and connection terminals. A membrane cover is installed on the lower part of the metal plate. It directly covers the membrane and the piston attached to it. And also on the lid there is threaded connection for installation on the adapter, which is located on the pumping equipment. All of the above structural parts are covered with a plastic cover.

This cover is secured with screws on the working part of the regulator.

It can be removed if necessary using wrench or a screwdriver.

Relays can have different configurations, shapes, and even differ in the location of some elements or wiring diagram. There are relays that have additional protective elements that keep the device dry when running and help protect the motor from overheating.

To supply water to a private home, station designs are used in which the pressure regulator is RM-5 or its foreign analogues. This model of pressure switch has a movable plate inside and two springs on its opposite sides. The plate is moved by water pressure in the system using a membrane. By rotating the clamping nut of one or another spring block you can change up or down the limits at which the relay operates. The springs seem to help ensure that the water pressure moves the plate.

The mechanism is made in such a way that when the plate is displaced, several groups of contacts open or close. If we consider the work scheme, it will be as follows. When turned on, the pump supplies water to the accumulator. Power is supplied to the motor through the closed relay contacts. At the same time, the water pressure in the tank increases.

When the pressure reaches the value set by the upper limit springs, the mechanism is activated, the contact opens, and the pump is turned off. Liquid from the pipeline does not flow back into the well due to the check valve. As the water is used, the bulb becomes empty, the pressure decreases, and then the lower parameter spring is activated, which closes the contacts, turning on the pump. Then the cycle repeats.

During operation of the entire pumping station, the operation of the pressure switch is as follows:

The water tap opens and it comes from the filled hydraulic tank;
the pressure in the system begins to decrease, and the membrane puts pressure on the piston;
the contacts close and the pump turns on;
water flows to the consumer, and when the tap closes, it fills the hydraulic tank;
when water is added to the hydraulic tank, pressure increases, it acts on the membrane, and it, in turn, acts on the piston, and the contacts open,
the pump stops working.

The relay settings determine how often the pump will turn on, the water pressure, and the service life of the entire system as a whole. If the parameters are set incorrectly, the pump will not work correctly.

Preparation

The relay needs to be adjusted only after checking the air pressure in the accumulator. To do this, it is worth better understanding how this very hydraulic accumulator (hydraulic tank) works. It is a sealed compound container. The main working part of the container is a rubber bulb into which water is collected. The other part is the metal housing of the hydraulic accumulator. The space between the body and the bulb is filled with air under pressure.

The pear in which water accumulates is connected to the water supply system. Due to the air in the hydraulic tank, the bulb with water is compressed, which allows maintaining the pressure in the system at a certain level. Thus, when a tap with water opens, it moves through the pipeline under pressure, but the pump does not turn on.

Before checking the air pressure in the hydraulic tank, the pumping station must be disconnected from the network and all water must be drained from the hydraulic accumulator tank. Next, open the side cover on the tank, find the nipple and use a bicycle or car pump with a pressure gauge to measure the pressure. It is good if its value is about 1.5 atmospheres.

If the result obtained is less than that, then the pressure is raised to the desired value using the same pump. It is worth remembering that the air in the tank must always be under pressure.

For a hydraulic tank with a volume of 20-25 liters, it is better to set the pressure in the range of 1.4-1.7 atmospheres, for a volume of 50-100 liters - 1.7-1.9 atmospheres.

It is important when using a pumping station to periodically check the air pressure in the hydraulic tank(about once a month or at least every three months), and if necessary, pump it up. These manipulations will allow the accumulator membrane to work longer. But you also shouldn’t let the hydraulic tank remain empty without water for too long, as this can lead to drying out of the walls.

After adjusting the pressure in the accumulator, it happens that the pumping station stops working as usual. This means that the pressure switch must be adjusted directly.

How to set it up yourself?

When starting a well pump and station, setting the relay is very important. Moreover, it must be done correctly.

Despite the fact that the pressure switch already comes with factory settings, the best option There will be additional checking and adjustment. Before you start adjusting the relay, it is worth finding out what the values that the manufacturer recommends are in order to establish acceptable pressure values. However, it must be taken into account that failure of the pumping station due to incorrect settings is not a warranty case.

When calculating the permissible values of the response pressure and shutdown of the automation, the manufacturer takes into account possible features operation. Moreover, this is done when developing parameters for work.

When selecting them, the following data is taken into account:

required pressure in the highest section of the water supply system;
height difference between the pump and the highest water withdrawal section;
possible pressure drop during water transfer.

Before making adjustments, you need to prepare tools in the form of a set of screwdrivers and wrenches. Usually the relay cover is made black so that it does not merge with the entire hydraulic accumulator. Under the cover there are two springs that act as a regulator. Each spring has a nut.

It should be noted that the size of the upper spring is larger, and the nut on it regulates the release pressure. It is also sometimes denoted by the letter “R”. The small nut on the lower spring allows you to adjust the pressure difference. The designation of a small nut is in the form of “ΔP” (delta P).

It is worth remembering that the accuracy of the settings made is best checked using the pressure gauge that is built into the system. To ensure more accurate settings, it is important to check the obtained values with those indicated in the passport of the pumping station. Be careful not to exceed the maximum values.

To increase the pressure value at which the station will turn off, tighten the nut “P” clockwise, and to decrease it, tighten it counterclockwise. Often, next to the nut there are symbols in the form of “+” and “-”. The nut must be rotated slowly, less than a turn at a time. It is useful to remember that with a higher “P” value, there will be more water in the pear, which means the pump will turn on less often.

Before proceeding directly to setting up the relay, you should at least understand a little how the pumping station as a whole works. The hydraulic accumulator contains a rubber bulb and air. The pump pumps water from the well into the pear. It is filled with water, air is compressed, and pressure is created on the walls.

Adjusting the pressure switch allows you to independently set the tank filling limit, that is, the moment when the pump should turn off. The pressure in the system is displayed on the pressure gauge. It is worth noting that water will not flow into the well due to the check valve.

When the faucet in the house opens, water leaves the pear with a pressure equal to the set pressure. The water from the bulb is consumed and the pressure decreases, and when it reaches the lower threshold, the pump turns on.

When assembling the pumping station, the pressure switch is connected between the outlet fitting of the hydraulic tank and the check valve in the pipeline. When assembling, it is best to use a five-point fitting, which has a thread for the main parts, including a pressure gauge. Very important in in the right order install the check valve and fitting. Otherwise, it will be difficult to adjust the pressure switch.

It is worth noting that the pumping station, in addition to the relay, may also include a “dry running” sensor, as well as a frequency converter if necessary.

The air pressure in the hydraulic tank has been checked and is at its optimal value, all filters in the system are new or replaced, which means you can begin setting up the pressure switch. First, you need to turn off the pump, then drain the water from the pipeline, opening the lowest tap if possible. Then, using a wrench or screwdriver, you need to remove plastic case with relay. Turn on the pump and let the system fill with water.

After the relay is activated and the pump is turned off, record the value displayed on the pressure gauge. This value is the upper pressure limit. Next, you need to partially open the valve located at the highest possible section of the system. In the case of a single-level water selection system, it is necessary to open the tap furthest from the pump.

When the pressure drops to a certain reading, the pump will start. At this moment, it is necessary to record the data using a pressure gauge. We get the value of the lower pressure. If we subtract it from the upper pressure recorded earlier, we get the value current difference pressure relay.

However, in addition to the pressure value, you need to check whether sufficient water pressure is created in the highest and most distant tap of the system. If it is weak, then you need to increase the value of the lower pressure. First, the device is disconnected from the power supply, and then the nut, which is located on a larger spring, is tightened. In case of strong pressure, loosen the nut to reduce it.

Now you can adjust the relay pressure difference found above. Usually optimal value is considered 1.4 atmospheres. With less, the water supply will be more uniform, but the pump will turn on more often, which reduces the service life of the system.

If the relay pressure difference is more than 1.4 atmospheres, the system will not operate in such a severe wear mode, but the difference between the highest and lowest pressure will become very noticeable. To adjust it, turn the nut on the smaller spring. To increase the pressure difference, tighten the nut clockwise. If the spring is weakened, the result will be the opposite.

When the springs are completely weakened, the relay is adjusted in a slightly different way. First, the pumping station is started to pressurize the system. It is produced to a level until water flows at an acceptable pressure from the tap furthest from the pump. For example, in this moment The pressure gauge showed 1.5 atmospheres. This pressure is recorded by disconnecting the pump and pumping station from the power supply.

Then remove the plastic case from the relay and tighten the nut, which is located on the larger spring, until a characteristic click is heard, which indicates that the contacts are activated. Next, the relay housing is installed in place, and the pumping equipment is started. The pressure is increased by 1.4 atmospheres.

After which the device is again disconnected from the power supply, the relay body is removed and the nut of the smaller spring is tightened until it clicks. This is the click of the contacts opening. We get a pressure switch configured to operate at an upper pressure of 2.9 atmospheres and a lower pressure of 1.5 atmospheres. After completing the settings, you should return the plastic housing of the relay to its place and connect the pumping station to the power supply.

In order for the pumping station to turn on and off as the need for water arises, a special device is built into its circuit - a pressure switch. Upon purchase, the factory settings are already set - the upper and lower limits at which the device operates, but in some cases it is necessary to adjust the pressure switch of the pumping station and adjust the readings. Most often this happens when there are breakdowns in other components, clogging after long-term use, or replacement of devices.

Definition and purpose of the pressure switch of the pumping station

The pressure switch automates the switching on and off of the pumping station

A pressure relay or sensor performs two functions in operation pumping equipment– when the pressure drops to the lower threshold, the electrical circuit is activated and the device sends a signal to turn on. When the upper threshold is reached, the circuit opens and turns off the pumping station. With factory settings, the lower threshold is set to a value from 1.5 to 1.8 bar. Upper 3 – 3.5 bar. It is not recommended to change these indicators yourself without good reason.

The sensitive organ of the relay is a flexible rubber membrane. When the pressure changes, this part bends in one direction or the other, which leads to the opening and closing of contacts.

The use of a membrane relay has made the operation of pumping equipment automated and does not require constant human intervention. In addition, the service life of pumps and compressors has increased since they no longer operate continuously. Overheating is the main enemy of devices, especially those that are not artificially cooled. If submersible pumps are constantly in the water column and therefore do not overheat, surface pumping stations fail faster and some parts have to be replaced more often.

Installing a relay is safe operation pipes, especially those made from relatively soft material– plastic, polypropylene. A pressure sensor keeps it in permissible limits. With an uncontrolled increase, pipe rupture is possible. Moreover, hot liquid, if it needs to be pumped through pipes or heating systems, softens the plastic and makes it vulnerable to damage. Considering that at the moment most water pipes made from polymer materials, such accidents could happen every day.

Energy saving when installing a pumping station with a pressure switch occurs automatically. If no one turns on the taps in the house, washing machine, the toilet tank does not work, then the pumping equipment does not turn on. The signal arrives when the pressure in the system drops and the device starts working.

Experts who created pumping stations claim that the service life of the device does not depend on the duration of operation, but on the number of on/off cycles. If there is a large-volume storage tank, it is possible that the station will turn on only once a day. But devices with storage tanks are not the most convenient way to store water, so it was decided to equip the pump with a hydraulic accumulator, which has more advantages. The relay can be configured so that the station turns on less often or more often.

Operating principle and device

Pressure switch device

The pressure switch was invented at the beginning of the last century. Until today it design diagram Little has changed, and the principle of operation has not changed.

The sensor consists of the following elements:

contact block;
a spring that regulates the pressure difference (lower threshold);
large working pressure springs (upper threshold);
connection point for electrical wires;
input for connecting a pressure gauge and safety valve;
hole for membrane;
on/off button;
plastic or metal case.

In case of some breakdowns, it is necessary to replace the pressure switch, since repairing it is impractical or expensive. To do this, you need to know how to choose the right device, because manufacturers do not always supply parts for the required model. The policy is aimed at getting people to buy new pump, rather than repairing the old one.

To select a device, you need to know its type, functionality and operating pressure - it is advisable not to lose the instructions for the pumping station. There are relays for water intake devices, air and chemical pumping control. A household pumping station usually operates with clean water, less often with sewage or dirty liquid.

The presence of protection against overheating of the electric motor may be included in the relay circuit, but this type will cost more. If possible, it is better to buy a device with protection, since the pumping station itself is much more expensive.

There is a single-phase or three-phase relay. They are used in pumping stations to protect against dry running. This is a kind of sensor that responds to the power factor generated by the equipment. When the readings are low, the device turns off the pump. This is an additional feature, the presence of which makes the device more expensive.

To attach the new relay to the pump, you need to know the flange size. It can be indicated by the following numbers: ¼, ½, 3/8.

Some devices have a mechanical start button. It is designed to force the pressure sensor on or off. Among the rest additional functions– unloading valve and setting scale.

The operating range of the pressure switch must match that required by the parameters of the pumping station. In the instructions, it is usually indicated by strokes.

When it is necessary to adjust the pressure switch

If the pumping station was purchased in finished form, it has factory settings. When assembling equipment manually from constituent elements adjusting the relay is a mandatory step before testing the device. The operation of individual components has a relationship with the relay settings, which may interfere with the operation of the device.

At long length The line may require additional tightening of larger springs to increase system pressure. Some residents who have heating system and plumbing, complain about a periodic drop in pressure at the moment when a person was in the shower. The water is heated by a boiler or boiler, and at the moment the pressure drops it becomes very hot. This is also related to the operation of the pumping station.

When adjusting the upper and lower threshold of the pressure switch, you need to look for a middle ground. In theory, these two indicators should have a minimal spread of values, but then the pump will turn on and off very often, which will lead to its rapid wear. If you set the lower value to minimum value, and the top one is at maximum, a sharp drop in pressure in the system will be felt. But in this case, the pump will work longer.

Sometimes the working chamber behind the relay membrane becomes clogged with various deposits from the pumped water. To clean the hole, remove the rubber, turn it over to the other side and assemble all the parts in the reverse order. After this, you need to test the operation of the pumping station, check the settings and, if necessary, make corrections.

What pressure should be in the pumping station

There is an opinion that pressure gauge values should be checked and adjusted every three months. The indicators depend not only on the settings, but also on the air pressure in the tank. If the values change over time, it is not necessary to touch the relay settings; you may need to pump air into the tank using a bicycle pump. For example, the initial settings of the upper threshold were 3 atmospheres, after the volume of air in the tank decreased, the pressure gauge began to show 4 atmospheres. In this case, air is pumped into the tank.

You cannot adjust the relay when the tank is completely filled with water. In this case, it is impossible to accurately determine how much air is in the system and how much water, because with a full tank, the total pressure is the sum of the water and air pressure indicators.

You cannot set the upper limit to more than 80% of the maximum value. In this case, it is better to replace the relay or lower the upper threshold. For example, the maximum threshold is 4 bars. Taking into account voltage surges and gradual wear of equipment, including relays, the upper limit cannot be set above 3.5 bar, otherwise all equipment may fail.

The smallest difference between the indicators can be 0.6 bar. If necessary, you can set the pumping station to the maximum difference so that the device turns on less often.

Setting and adjusting the pressure switch

Settings do not always help solve problems with the operation of the pumping station. Before touching the springs, it is necessary to find out whether the contacts are “sticking” due to unfavorable conditions operation – high humidity, condensation, overheating. First, check the contacts and clean them if necessary. sandpaper and reconnected. All work is carried out with the device de-energized. At the same time, they check the tank for integrity and the presence of the required volume of air inside, and clean the filters. If you have no experience working with such equipment, it is better to invite a specialist.

If the problem really is that the settings have gone wrong, before starting work you need to prepare a wrench that will turn the spring. You need to turn on the unit and write down the indicators of the upper and lower thresholds in order to more accurately determine which indicator needs to be changed and which one should be left the same.

Actions are performed in the following sequence:

The station is de-energized.
Water is drained from the accumulator tank and the cover of the pressure switch is opened.
The switching indicator is regulated by a large spring. It is usually set to 2–2.2 atmospheres. The nut is tightened clockwise until the value is set to the desired number.
The difference is adjusted with a small spring. If it is necessary to decrease the value, turn the nut counterclockwise, if to increase it, turn it clockwise.

The difference between the indicators should optimally be 1 bar, so that the change in pressure in the house is not felt.

The small spring is designed to adjust the difference in indicators. It does not adjust the lower shutdown threshold.

Features of adjustment “from scratch” and errors during settings

Setting up a pressure switch for a pumping station with your own hands from scratch is much more difficult. This procedure is required when the equipment is assembled in parts and not purchased in a store. In such a situation, several parameters need to be taken into account:

air pressure in the accumulator;
relay capabilities - its operating range;
line length and pump operating parameters.

The lack of air in the tank will cause the membrane to immediately fill with water and gradually stretch until it bursts. The maximum pressure when switching off should be the sum of the water and air pressure in the tank. For example, the relay is set to 3 bar. Of these, 2 bars are water, 1 bar is air.

The pump station automation is initially adjusted by the manufacturer to a certain amount of pressure when turning the equipment on and off. Typically these factory settings are between 1.5 and 1.8 bar when turned on and between 2.3 and 3 bar when turned off.
But there are situations when additional pressure adjustment on the equipment is necessary during operation. You can learn how to adjust the pumping station in this article.

Pumping station installation process: basic recommendations

In order to prevent vacuum compression of the pipes on the suction line, it is necessary that they have a certain rigidity, if they are plastic, they can also be metal, reinforced for vacuum.

Caution: It is very important that these pipes or hoses are not bent or kinked.

So:

All connections must have high tightness. Air that may be sucked in has a negative impact on the operation of the station.
Very convenient to use quick connectors when servicing the station. An example of such a connection is “American”.
It is necessary that the suction pipe be equipped with a special check valve with a mesh. Also, a main filter can be used in front of the pumping station. This will protect the system from small particles entering it.
One side of the suction pipe must extend into the water at least 30 cm below the water surface. It is also important that there is at least 20 cm left to the bottom of the well.
It is recommended to equip the outlet pipe of the pumping station with a check valve, which will protect it from water hammer when turning the pump on and off.
The pumping station must be fixed in a fixed position.
It is better to refrain from a large number of taps and bends in the system.
If the depth from which suction is carried out exceeds 4 m, or the system has a horizontal section whose length exceeds 4 m. it is better to use pipes with larger diameter, as this will improve the operation of the station.
It is necessary to protect the pumping station from operating in the absence of water. If there is such a risk, it is better to consult with a specialist about the possibility of solving this problem.
To prevent the system from freezing in winter time, it is better to provide in advance the possibility of draining water at all points of the system. This can be done using drain taps, and you need to pay attention to the presence check valves, which will not allow the water to drain.

The process of fixing the pumping station

The pump must be installed on flat surface, preferably in closest proximity to the water source:

In the room where the pumping station is located, proper ventilation must be organized, which will reduce humidity, as well as temperature regime no more than 40 °C.
There must be a distance of at least 20 cm between the pumping station and the walls of the room where it is located, this allows access to the system when servicing it.
The pipes used for fixation must have the appropriate diameter.
Next, you need to mark holes for fasteners on the surface where the station will be located, and then drill them.
Before finally securing all the screws to the fasteners, it is better to once again check whether there are any bends on the pipes that give them mechanical stress.

Pressure switch device for pumping station

Before you start adjusting the pressure switch, you need to familiarize yourself with its design and operating principle.

The photo shows the design of the device.
Its main elements:

1 and 2 – spring regulators.
3 – base of the device.
4 – nut fixing the relay to the adapter and the membrane cover.
5 – block with terminals for connecting a 220V network, the pump itself and its grounding.

A membrane cover is attached to the metal base below, under which there is a membrane and a piston with a quick-release nut pos. 4. On top there is a contact group, terminal blocks and two spring regulators of different sizes.
All elements are covered from above with a plastic cover attached to the screw of the large regulator and which, depending on the model, can be easily removed with a screwdriver or wrench.
Different models of products, the price of which does not fluctuate much, may differ in size, shape, and arrangement of component elements, but most of them have the design described above. Some of the products include additional elements, such as a lever that includes dry-running protection.

How does a relay work?

The relay works according to this principle:

Under the influence of liquid pressure supplied from the pump, the membrane begins to press on the piston.
It activates the contact group, which is mounted on a metal platform with two hinges.
The contacts for connecting 220V voltage and the pump, depending on the position, can be open or closed, which corresponds to turning the pump off and on.
When the large regulator spring acts on the contact group platform, the piston pressure is balanced.
If the pressure begins to weaken, under the action of a spring the platform begins to lower and the contacts close, which turns on the pump (see).
The spring of the small regulator also acts against the water pressure, but it is located further from the platform hinge and does not immediately come into operation, but only after the platform with the contacts can rise to a certain height.
A small hinge with a spring is responsible for triggering the electrical section of the relay, for closing and opening its contacts.

The relay is designed so that the hinge and platform cannot be located in the same plane.
When the platform is raised above the hinge, the contacts jump down, and when lowered below its plane, the elements immediately snap upward.
The location of the plane of this hinge is slightly higher than the base of the spring of the small regulator, allowing the platform to rise without opening the contacts to this level, and when it reaches it, under the action of the springs of these two regulators, the contacts will open and the pump will turn off.
At the same time, the large spring regulator is thus responsible for the moment the unit is turned on or for the “lower” pressure (P), and the smaller one is responsible for the difference between the switch-off and switch-on pressures (∆P).
When the spring of the large regulator is compressed, which is done by tightening the nut clockwise, it acts with greater force on the platform of the contact group, which causes an increase in the “lower” pressure.
If in this case you do not change the degree of compression of the spring of the smaller regulator, the “upper” pressure or shutdown will begin to increase, to the same value. In this case, ∆P will remain unchanged.
When the spring of the smaller regulator is compressed, the “upper” pressure will increase, but the “lower” pressure will not change, which will lead to an increase in ∆P.
With appropriate weakening of the springs, these figures will decrease.
Adjustment of the pressure switch of pumping equipment is based on this principle.

How to regulate a pressure switch yourself

Before adjusting the automation, you need to prepare a screwdriver or wrench to remove the relay cover and a wrench to tighten or unscrew the nut adjusters.
After this, the instructions for doing the work yourself are as follows:

Disconnected from pressure switch voltage.
Removed plastic cover relay and its adjustment is made depending on its purpose:

increased blood pressure;
demotion;
changing the operating range of equipment.

Two spring regulators are mounted under the cover, responsible for the lower and upper pressure.

To increase or decrease the pressure in the network you must:

Simply tighten or unscrew the nut on the larger regulator.
After changing the adjustment, the lid closes.
The voltage turns on.
The tap opens and the pressure gauge built into the pumping station determines whether the pressure at which the pump is turned on or “lower”.
The tap is closed and the “upper” pressure is checked using the pressure gauge when the pump is turned off.

Tip: If the pressure readings are satisfactory, the adjustment is considered complete. If not, everything repeats again.

How to change the relay range

If the “lower” pressure is normal, and you only need to increase or decrease the “upper” pressure, you need to use a smaller regulator.
Wherein:

Tightening the nut clockwise for this regulator will increase the “upper” pressure, while keeping the “lower” pressure constant.
Unscrewing is the opposite: in this case, the difference between them - ∆P - will decrease or increase.
After changing the adjustment, the power is turned on and the pressure gauge shows the moment when the pump turns off - the “upper” pressure.
If the results are satisfactory, the adjustment can be stopped; if not, the process is repeated until the desired result is obtained.

Advice: It is necessary to take into account that an increase in ∆P allows the pump to turn on less often, but in this case more noticeable pressure drops will occur in the water supply network, and when it decreases, on the contrary, it will be equalized in the system, but the pump will turn on more often, which will lead to to reduce its service life.

If you are not satisfied with both the “lower” pressure and the operating range of the relay, you must first make adjustments with a large regulator, and then with a smaller one, the whole process being controlled by the station’s pressure gauge.

What is taken into account when making adjustments

When regulating the operation of equipment relays yourself, it is necessary to take into account the following important points:

“Upper” pressure, which is more than 80% of the maximum for the product, cannot be installed on this model. As a rule, it is indicated on the packaging or in the instructions and ranges from 5 to 5.5 bar.
To install more high level in the system of a private house, it is necessary to select a relay with a higher maximum pressure.
Before increasing the pressure to turn on the pump, you need to get acquainted with its characteristics, whether it can develop such pressure. Otherwise, if it cannot be created, the unit will not turn off, and the relay will not be able to turn it off, because the set limit cannot be reached.
Pump pressure is measured in meters of water column: 1 m of water. Art. = 0.1 bar. In addition, hydraulic losses in the entire system are also taken into account.
Do not tighten the regulator nuts completely when adjusting, otherwise the relay may stop working completely.

Effect of air pressure in the tank

Its normal operation depends on the air pressure in the hydraulic accumulator (see) of the equipment, but it has nothing to do with adjusting the relay. In any case, it will begin to operate at a certain “lower” and “upper” pressure, regardless of its presence in the tank.
In the absence of air in the membrane tank, it can only lead to complete filling with water and the pressure in the system will begin to rise instantly to the “upper” pressure and the pump will immediately turn off after stopping liquid intake. Every time you open the tap, the pump turns on, it will immediately drop to the “lower” limit.
If there is no hydraulic accumulator, the relay will still operate. Reduced air pressure leads to strong stretching of the membrane, and increased air pressure leads to insufficient filling of the tank with water. In this case overpressure air will begin to displace liquid.
For normal operation of the pumping station and long service membranes, it is necessary that the air pressure is 10% less than the “lower” one set during adjustment. Then the accumulator will be normally filled with water, and the membrane will not stretch too much, which means it will last for a long time. In this case, the pump will turn on at intervals corresponding to the ∆P adjusted in the relay.
In addition, it is necessary to check the air pressure in the tank of the pumping station if there is no liquid pressure in it. In this case, you need to open the tap located lowest in the system and drain all the water.
The details of adjusting the pressure switch are well shown in the video in this article.

Tip: When setting up a pressure switch, you need to remember that the accumulator or tank, plumbing, all hoses and the mechanics of the relay have their own pressure limits that cannot be exceeded.

The pressure switch for the hydraulic accumulator is fully responsible for its operating mode and the frequency of activation of the pump. This is the main control device of the system. The entire water supply scheme is closely related to the values set on it. It is this element that gives the signal to the electric pump to turn on or off.

Place of the device in the water supply system

(GA) consists of a container, a valve for bleeding, a flange, a 5-pin fitting (tee) with couplings for connection, as well as a pressure switch (control unit), which sets the rhythm of all work.

main control element
ensures work without overloads
controls optimal filling of the tank with water
extends the service life of the membrane and all equipment in general

A pressure gauge that shows the pressure in the tank is included in the kit or can be purchased separately.

The pump pumps water out of the well and directs it through pipes. Next, it enters the GA, and from it into the home pipeline. Task membrane tank– maintain stable pressure, as well as the pump operating cycle. There is a certain maximum activation for it - about 30 per hour. When exceeded, the mechanism experiences loads and through a short time may fail. The water pressure switch must be adjusted so that the devices operate as expected, without exceeding the critical load.

Setting up a storage tank means creating the required number of atmospheres in it and correctly setting the pump response thresholds

Design and principle of operation

The device looks like a box various shapes with controls under the cover. It is attached to one of the outlets of the fitting (tee) of the container. The mechanism is equipped with small springs that are adjusted by turning the nuts.

Operating principle in order:

The springs are connected to a membrane that responds to pressure surges. An increase in indicators compresses the spiral, a decrease leads to stretching.
The contact group reacts to these actions by closing or opening the contacts, thereby transmitting a signal to the pump. The connection diagram necessarily takes into account the connections of its electrical cable to the device.
The storage space fills up and the pressure increases. The spring transmits the pressure force, the device operates according to the set values and turns off the pump, sending it a command to do so.
The liquid is consumed - the pressure weakens. This is fixed, the engine turns on.

The assembly consists of the following parts: a housing (plastic or metal), a membrane with a cover, a brass piston, threaded pins, metal plates, cable sleeves, terminal blocks, a hinged platform, sensitive springs, and a contact assembly.

The operating algorithm of the control device is as simple as possible. The mechanism responds to changes in the number of atmospheres inside the drive. The moving platform is raised or lowered by springs depending on the pressure on the piston, which in turn interacts with contacts that signal the pump to start or stop pumping.

Installation

Often the HA kit is sold disassembled, and the control unit must be installed yourself.

Connecting the pressure switch to the hydraulic accumulator looks like this in stages:

The station is disconnected from the network. If water has already been pumped into the storage tank, it is drained.
The device is fixed permanently. It is screwed onto the 5-pin fitting of the unit or onto the outlet pipe and must be firmly fixed.
The wiring diagram is normal: there are contacts for the network, pump, and grounding. The cables are passed through holes on the housing and connected to contact blocks with terminals.

Electrical connection to the pump

Settings

Before adjusting the relay, you need to take into account that its values are inextricably linked with the pressure inside the membrane tank. First you need to create the required amount of pressure inside it, and then move on to working with the control in question.

The adjustment is carried out in 3 stages:

pressure inside HA
pump start level
shutdown mark

For optimal performance it is necessary to adjust the parameters several times experimentally, taking into account the water flow, the height of the pipes and the pressure in them.

Indicators inside the accumulator

It is advisable that the pressure adjustment in the accumulator take into account the following examples and rules:

For one-story house 1 bar is enough, and if the tank is installed in the basement, then add 1 more
the value should be greater than the most high point water intake
how many atmospheres should be inside the container is determined by the following formula: add 6 to the height of the pipes to the highest point of water intake and divide the result by 10
if there are many consumption points or the branching of the pipeline is significant, then a little more is added to the resulting figure. How much to add is determined empirically. For this there is next rule. If the value is too low, then water will not be delivered to the devices. If it is too high, the HA will be constantly empty, the pressure will be too strong, and there will also be a risk of membrane rupture.

In order to increase the pressure in the accumulator, air is pumped up with an ordinary bicycle pump (there is a special spool on the body); to lower it, it is vented. The pneumatic valve for this purpose is located under the decorative trim. The procedure must be done in the absence of water pressure, which requires simply closing the taps.

The value of the indicators is determined by a pressure gauge connected to the spool. The correction is made after the pump has turned off. The pressure difference is created by opening the tap at the nearest point.

Manufacturers standardly set the pressure in the tank to 1,5 – 2,5 bar. Its increase reduces usable space inside the container and increases the pressure in the system - this must be taken into account when calculating.

Basics of adjusting thresholds

There are two springs with nuts: the larger one is responsible for the values for turning off the pump, the smaller one is for turning it on. The bolts are loosened or tightened, thereby making adjustments.

Setting up the accumulator pressure switch will be of high quality if you follow these rules:

the average recommended difference between the values for turning the pump on and off is 1 - 1.5 atm
the pressure inside the HA must be lower than the set value to turn on the pump by 10%. Example: if the activation mark is set to 2.5 bar, and the switch off mark is set to 3.5 bar, then there should be 2.3 bar inside the container
the hydraulic accumulator and control unit have their own load limits - when purchasing, you need to check whether they coincide with the calculations for the system (pipe height, number of intake points, flow rate)

The mechanism in question controls the maximum and minimum pressure in the tank. It maintains the difference in its values when the station is activated and switched off. The limit of its settings depends on the power and hourly flow rate of the pump.

Factory parameters are indicated in the product data sheet. Usually they are like this:

limit limits – 1 – 5 atm
pump operating range – 2.5 atm
starting point – 1.5 atm
maximum switch-off level – 5 atm

Preparation and example of setting the required values

Preparation:

tank is connected
the control unit is adjusted under pressure, the system is not disconnected from the power supply
inside the unit the pressure should be 10 - 13% lower than that of the pumping station. That is, approximately 0.6 - 0.9 atm than the mark at which the engine turns on
all taps are closed
the set level is checked with a pressure gauge within an hour to make sure there are no leaks
remove the block housing cover to have access to the nuts and observe the springs

Setting with an example of setting marks of 3.2 atm to turn off and 1.9 atm to turn on (two-story house):

Start the pump to determine the pressure in the system. It should fill the storage part of the device and increase the pressure.
They determine at what pressure gauge reading the shutdown will occur (usually no more than 2 atm.) When exceeded, a small spring comes into action, which is clearly visible.
The motor is stopped above 3.2 - 3.3 atm, this figure is reduced by rotating the nut on the small spring a quarter turn, since it is very sensitive, until the motor turns on.
They check with a pressure gauge: 3 - 3.2 atm will be enough.
Turn on the tap to relieve the pressure and so that the HA is freed from the liquid and record the pump activation mark with a pressure gauge, usually 2.5 atm - the lower pressure indicator has been reached.
To reduce the lower threshold, rotate the large spring bolt counterclockwise. Next, start the pump until the pressure rises by required level, after which you need to check the pressure with a pressure gauge. An acceptable value is 1.8 - 1.9 atm. When “failure” occurs, the nut is rotated clockwise.
Once again, adjust the small spring a little, clarifying the already set thresholds.

The adjustment bolts are very sensitive - turning just 3/4 of a turn can add 1 atm. The pressure of the switched-on pump should be 0.1 - 0.3 atm higher than in an empty storage tank, which will prevent damage to the “bulb” inside it.

The setup process in brief

For a better understanding of how to set up a pressure switch, we will outline the process more clearly:

pump activation mark (minimum pressure): rotating the large spring bolt clockwise increases the starting mark, counterclockwise decreases it;
value for shutdown: move the small spring, when tightening - the pressure difference increases, when unscrewing - the actuation mark decreases;
the result is checked by opening the tap and draining the water, recording the moment the pump is turned on;
The internal pressure force is adjusted by deflating or pumping air and checking this with a pressure gauge.

Increasing the factory switching parameters (above 1.5 atm) creates a risk of critical load on the hydraulic tank membrane. The operating range of the pump is adjusted taking into account the maximum possible load for the water fittings. The sealing rings of household taps can withstand a maximum of 6 atm.

Maintenance, problems, operation

Preventative actions and repairs:

mechanical sensitive parts need to be checked and adjusted
It is advisable to clean the contacts
If it doesn’t work, don’t rush to disassemble the mechanism - first try lightly tapping the body with a not too heavy object
Rocker joints are lubricated with grease once a year
do not tighten the adjustment nuts completely - the mechanism will not work

If the device does not hold pressure, does not work correctly, or does not work at all, refrain from hasty conclusions and do not throw it away. Dust, debris, sand in the membrane space prevent it from reacting normally. Steps to fix the problem are:

Unscrew the 4 bolts on the bottom, remove the cover with the inlet pipe and the cover.
Carefully rinse the membrane and the cavities around it.
Install all elements in reverse order.
Set the thresholds again and carry out a test run.

Experts recommend that before setting up the relay correctly, do not exceed the upper threshold by more than 80% of the maximum permissible values for a specific model, which are indicated in the instructions (standard about 5 - 5.5 atm.).

For high-quality operation, there should be no air in the pipeline. Periodically (once every 3-6 months) you need to check the set response thresholds, pressure indicators in the HA, and bleed or pump in air. Before you start setting up, you need to find out whether the pressure switch for the hydraulic accumulator and the unit itself can withstand the required loads, and whether its technical capabilities meet them.