Strength and transparency for domestic heating systems

To manufacture their flowmeter bodies, Multitherm and Duroset Technologie Plastics have chosen Lasul, a high-performance PSU-based compound by Lati.

Radiant floor, wall and ceiling heating systems are a major advance in terms of improving living comfort, while also saving energy and safeguarding the environment. Today’s systems are based on the use of hot water, which is conveyed in hydraulic circuits concealed in the screed, behind skirting boards, or in false ceilings. In all cases, these are permanent installations whose long-term reliability and safety must be guaranteed.

For this reason, the fluid circulating in the system must always be present in the quantity and under the conditions necessary to ensure correct functioning of heaters, pumps and valves. Any flow irregularities or problems with cleaning the circuit water could, in fact, result in dangerous boiler failures. Inspection of the thermal fluid is therefore fundamentally important, and this is made possible by ensuring that the flow regulators installed in the hot water distribution system and in the related circuits have transparent bodies.

PSU is a thermoplastic resin that guarantees maximum transparency even after long periods of use at high temperatures. Furthermore, like all amorphous resins, it can be used to produce moulded objects boasting excellent dimensional stability, as well as accuracy with regard to the measurements specifications, which is essential in this setting in order to prevent leaks. The pressure level in the hydraulic circuits is not a problem as even non-reinforced polysulfone has very good mechanical properties, especially toughness and resilience. The fluid present in these heating circuits can contain impurities, pollutants and descaling chemicals used during chemical washing of the system; however, none of this is a problem for the flowmeter body since PSU is highly resistant to aggressive inorganic acids and alkalis.