Radiator value function restore

Jchenabc · June 16

I have a two-pipe vapor system with some of the original Warren Webster syphon valves still in place. A few were stuck, but I was able to rebuild them using a Tunstall kit. However, the previous owner replaced a few valves with standard on/off valves, which are not designed for this system, allowing way too much steam to come in and throw off the balance of the system.

After doing some research, it seems the best way forward is to replace those incorrect valves entirely with the Macon NT Series, adding a custom-drilled orifice plate on the union inlet based on the EDR. This will allow me to limit the steam entering the radiator and further regulate it with a TRV. Am I missing anything?

mattmia2 · June 16

you don't need to replace the standard valves, just adding an orifice plate will accomplish what the vapor valves did. In fact the warren webster valves just have an orifice that inserts in to them that looks sort of like a thimble. If you add an orifice plate it will limit the maximum amount of steam that will be let in to the radiator if you keep the pressure low.

Actually maybe they just had an orifice plate originally. See page 10. This catalog is from during wwii so some stuff that normally would be brass has been replaced with iron and steel:

https://heatinghelp.com/assets/documents/85.pdf

Jchenabc · June 16

I have these, I read somewhere that it's opening is decided by the groves that are machined on the middle core. So there is no benefit in switching to the NT valves ? The other reason why I want to do this is to add smart TRV's too them.

mattmia2 · June 16

looking at their catalog either there is a specific size hole in the seat or an orifice plate in the union. most other vapor valves had a stop that you would set that would limit how far the valve could open and usually used a plug style valve that had a more consistent opening in relation to the handle position.

webster systems usually had steam traps so if the trap is working the orifice or vapor valve is less important.

an orifice plate in the union with a regular valve will do the job in any case.

an orifice is just a specific size hole. the amount of a gas that goes though a specific size hole is a function of the size of the hole and the pressure so if you control the pressure and give it a specific size hole you regulate how much steam is emitted in to the radiator.

Jamie Hall · June 16

In a pinch — or until you can do better — there's nothing that says you can't just close the ordinary valves part way or almost all the way… works just fine, but can be a bit fussy.

Radiator value function restore

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