Bell & Gossett Series D ASME expansion tanks are engineered to maintain system pressurization in heating and cooling systems by absorbing expansion forces through a pre-charged diaphragm mechanism. These tanks are designed for durability and efficiency in industrial and commercial applications, with specifications that emphasize their role in preventing over-pressurization and system failure.
The Series D expansion tanks are pre-charged with air and utilize a heavy-duty diaphragm to separate the system water from the air charge. This design eliminates common issues such as water-logging and ensures that the tank maintains its functionality under varying operating conditions. These tanks are ASME-rated and built to meet the rigorous demands of pressurized systems, making them a reliable component in thermal management setups.
One model of particular interest is the 116306 Bell & Gossett Series D-180 ASME Expansion Tank, which has a tank volume of 90.0 gallons (340.7 liters). It is important to note that this tank is not suitable for potable water systems, and it weighs 283.00 pounds (128.38 kg) with a fixed shipping cost of $445.00. These specifications are essential for determining the tank’s suitability for specific applications and for planning the logistics of its installation.
The installation and operation of these tanks are supported by comprehensive documentation, including brochures, instruction manuals, and submittal sheets. These materials provide detailed guidance on sizing, installation practices, and maintenance, ensuring that the tank functions optimally over its service life.
This article explores the technical specifications, installation considerations, and operational features of the Bell & Gossett Series D expansion tanks, drawing exclusively from the information provided in the source materials.
Technical Specifications and Design Features
The Bell & Gossett Series D expansion tanks are designed as pressurized, pre-charged diaphragm-type pressure vessels. Their primary function is to absorb the expansion of water in heating or cooling systems, thereby maintaining stable system pressure and preventing mechanical stress on the piping and components.
The Series D model is particularly suitable for systems operating under varying conditions, such as those that experience frequent temperature fluctuations. The diaphragm design ensures that the system water remains isolated from the air charge within the tank, which is a key feature in preventing issues like water-logging and corrosion. This separation also helps in maintaining consistent pressure levels and reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
The 116306 model, for example, is a 90-gallon (340.7-liter) tank, which is appropriate for larger systems with higher water volumes. Its 175 psi rating indicates that it is designed to handle high-pressure environments, making it suitable for industrial or commercial applications where system pressures can fluctuate significantly.
The tank is constructed to meet ASME standards, which are widely recognized for pressure vessel safety and reliability. These standards ensure that the tank is built to withstand internal pressure without risk of failure, provided it is installed and operated according to manufacturer guidelines.
The pre-charged air system is another critical design element. The tank is factory-charged with air at a specific pressure, which helps in maintaining system balance without requiring additional adjustments during installation. This feature simplifies the setup process and reduces the risk of improper pressurization, which can lead to inefficiencies or system damage.
In addition to the standard Series D tanks, Bell & Gossett also offers a 175 psi variant, which is designed for high-pressure environments. This model is particularly useful in systems where the operating pressure exceeds typical ranges, such as in large commercial buildings or industrial facilities with complex thermal management needs.
Installation Considerations and Best Practices
Proper installation of a Bell & Gossett Series D expansion tank is essential to ensure optimal performance and system longevity. The installation process involves several key steps, including selecting the appropriate tank size, positioning the tank correctly within the system, and ensuring that the tank is connected to the system in a way that minimizes stress on the piping and components.
One of the first considerations in installation is tank sizing. The size of the tank should be determined based on the volume of the system and the expected temperature fluctuations. The manufacturer provides detailed guidance on sizing in the B&G Training Manual Pressurized Expansion Tank Sizing TEH-981, which outlines formulas and charts to help engineers and technicians calculate the correct tank capacity. This manual is a critical resource for ensuring that the tank is neither under-sized, which could lead to frequent pressure fluctuations, nor over-sized, which could result in unnecessary costs and inefficiencies.
Once the tank size is determined, the installation location should be chosen carefully. The tank should be placed in a stable, accessible location that is not subject to extreme temperature variations or physical stress. It should also be installed in a way that allows for easy access to the pressure gauge and air valve, which are essential for routine maintenance and pressure adjustments.
The tank should be connected to the system using flexible piping where possible, especially in systems where movement or vibration is expected. This helps to absorb mechanical stress and prevents damage to the tank or piping. The manufacturer’s instruction manual (Bell & Gossett Pre-charged Bladder & Diaphragm Tanks ASME (B,D,B-LA) Instruction/Operating Manual) provides detailed guidance on the appropriate types of piping and fittings to use, as well as the recommended torque values for securing the connections.
Another important consideration is the initial air charge pressure. While the tank is pre-charged at the factory, it is recommended to verify the pressure using a calibrated gauge and adjust it if necessary. The air charge pressure should match the system’s minimum operating pressure to ensure that the tank can effectively absorb expansion without over-pressurizing the system. If the pressure is too low, the tank may not function correctly, and if it is too high, it could lead to system instability or component damage.
It is also important to avoid exposing the tank to direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can cause the internal components to degrade over time. The tank should be installed in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of moisture or condensation, which can lead to corrosion or other issues.
In systems where multiple expansion tanks are used, it is important to install them in parallel rather than in series. This ensures that each tank can function independently and that the system pressure remains balanced. The manufacturer’s submittal sheets (Bell & Gossett Series "D" ASME Pressurized Expansion Tank Submittal Sheet) provide additional guidance on multi-tank installations, including recommended spacing and piping configurations.
Finally, the installation process should be followed by a system pressure test to ensure that all connections are secure and that the tank is functioning as intended. This test should be performed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and should include a check of the tank’s pressure, the system’s overall pressure, and the integrity of the piping and fittings.
Operational Features and Maintenance
Once installed, the Bell & Gosgett Series D expansion tank requires regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure continued performance and system stability. The tank’s diaphragm design is inherently low-maintenance, but it is still important to conduct periodic checks to identify any potential issues before they lead to system failure.
One of the key maintenance tasks is pressure monitoring. The tank’s air charge pressure should be checked regularly using a calibrated pressure gauge. If the pressure is found to be too low, the tank should be recharged using an appropriate air pump. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when adjusting the pressure, as over-pressurization can be just as harmful as under-pressurization.
Another important aspect of maintenance is inspecting the tank for signs of damage or wear. The tank’s ASME rating ensures that it is built to withstand internal pressure, but external factors such as physical impacts, corrosion, or exposure to extreme temperatures can still affect its integrity. Any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or leaks, should be addressed immediately by replacing the tank or repairing the affected area.
In addition to physical inspections, it is also important to monitor the system’s overall pressure to ensure that the tank is functioning correctly. If the system experiences frequent pressure fluctuations or if the tank is unable to maintain a stable pressure, it may be an indication that the tank is undersized or that there is an issue with the system’s configuration. In such cases, it may be necessary to adjust the tank size or reconfigure the system to improve performance.
The manufacturer’s instruction manual provides detailed guidance on the recommended maintenance schedule and procedures. It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure that the tank remains in optimal condition and that the system continues to operate efficiently.
In systems where the tank is used in conjunction with pumps or other pressurization components, it is also important to ensure that these components are functioning correctly. If the pump is not maintaining the correct pressure or if there is a leak in the system, it can affect the tank’s ability to absorb expansion and maintain system stability. In such cases, it may be necessary to repair or replace the affected components.
Finally, it is important to keep a record of all maintenance activities and to document any changes to the system’s configuration or performance. This helps in identifying trends or recurring issues and can provide valuable information for troubleshooting and system optimization.
Conclusion
Bell & Gossett Series D ASME expansion tanks are essential components in heating and cooling systems, providing a reliable means of maintaining stable pressure and preventing over-pressurization. These tanks are designed with a pre-charged diaphragm that isolates system water from the air charge, ensuring efficient and long-term performance. The 116306 model, with its 90-gallon capacity and 175 psi rating, is particularly suited for larger systems and high-pressure environments.
Installation of these tanks requires careful planning and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Selecting the appropriate tank size, positioning it correctly, and ensuring proper connections are all critical to the tank’s effectiveness. The use of flexible piping, regular pressure checks, and avoiding exposure to extreme conditions further enhance the tank’s durability and performance.
Once installed, the tank requires minimal maintenance but should be monitored regularly to ensure that it continues to function as intended. Pressure checks, visual inspections, and system monitoring are all important aspects of ongoing maintenance. By following these procedures, system operators can ensure that the tank remains in optimal condition and that the system continues to operate efficiently.
The availability of comprehensive documentation, including sizing manuals, installation guides, and submittal sheets, provides additional support for engineers and technicians. These resources are invaluable for ensuring that the tank is installed and maintained correctly and that the system remains stable and efficient over time.