The Webstone Air Separator, designed for hydronic heating systems, is intended to remove air from the system to improve efficiency and performance. Installation requires specific considerations regarding piping configuration and system fluid composition. Servicing, while generally not required on a regular schedule, involves procedures for cleaning the unit to maintain optimal functionality. This document details installation and servicing instructions based on the provided manufacturer’s documentation.
Installation Procedures
The Webstone Air Separator is designed for installation in hydronic heating systems. Optimal placement is after the boiler or heat exchanger and before the pump suction. The documentation recommends mounting an expansion tank before the pump suction in conjunction with the air separator.
The unit must be installed in a straight run of horizontal piping and positioned upright. Designated lengths of straight piping before and after the unit are not required. Importantly, the documentation specifies that neither side of the unit is designated as an inlet or outlet, allowing for flow in either direction.
System fluid composition is also a critical consideration. The documentation cautions against exceeding a 50% water/glycol ratio in the system. Exceeding this ratio may affect the separator’s performance or longevity, though specific details regarding the impact are not provided in the source material.
Servicing and Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the Webstone Air Separator is not typically required. However, the documentation acknowledges that debris may accumulate over time, potentially impacting performance. Should performance degradation be observed, the following servicing instructions should be followed.
Safety Precautions
Prior to any servicing, critical safety precautions must be observed. The documentation emphasizes the potential hazards associated with system fluid under pressure. Before removing the vent head for inspection, the system pressure must be reduced to zero, or the air separator must be isolated from the system. Additionally, water temperatures above 100°F are considered hazardous, and the system should be allowed to cool before proceeding. Users are instructed to keep their bodies away from the valve while it is open to avoid potential injury. Failure to adhere to these safety guidelines may result in serious bodily injury or property damage.
Cleaning Procedure
The cleaning procedure involves several steps. First, using two strap wrenches, the upper body must be held in place while the vent body cap ring is removed. Next, the upper body is removed using two strap wrenches on the lower and upper bodies of the air vent. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the o-ring during this process.
The coalescing medium is then removed from the lower vent body. A caution is prominently displayed regarding the coalescing medium, stating that it is very sharp. After removal, the coalescing medium should be rinsed thoroughly with a mild detergent or a water/vinegar solution to remove any accumulated buildup.
Before reassembly, the o-ring should be examined for any damage. If damage is detected, the o-ring should be replaced. Finally, the air separator is reassembled, and the system is returned to operating condition. If the system was completely drained during the servicing process, minimal manual bleeding may be required to ensure the system is completely full of water and able to circulate.
Component Examination
The servicing instructions specifically highlight the importance of examining the o-ring for damage before reinstallation. The documentation does not provide details on the specifications of the o-ring or where to obtain a replacement, but emphasizes its role in maintaining a proper seal. The coalescing medium is also identified as a component requiring attention during servicing, primarily due to its sharp nature and the need for thorough cleaning.
Pro-Connect Information
The documentation references “full Pro-Connect” information, but does not elaborate on the specifics of this system. It is implied that additional installation details are available through Pro-Connect resources, but these resources are not detailed within the provided documentation.
Contact Information
The documentation provides contact information for Nibco/Webstone, including a phone number (800-225-9529) and fax number (800-336-5133). The company’s website is listed as www.webstonevalves.com, and the physical address is provided as One Appian Way, Worcester, MA 01610, with a P.O. Box address of P.O. Box 59, Worcester, MA 01613. The documentation is identified as FORM#PRAS0417 and copyrighted 2017 by NIBCO INC.
Conclusion
The Webstone Air Separator is a component designed to enhance the efficiency of hydronic heating systems by removing air. Proper installation, including attention to piping configuration, system fluid composition, and adherence to safety precautions, is crucial for optimal performance. While regular maintenance is not required, a defined cleaning procedure is available to address potential debris accumulation. The documentation emphasizes the importance of safety during servicing, particularly regarding system pressure and water temperature.