What aluminum radiators are better to choose

Heating devices made of aluminum, have a decent appearance, they are not very expensive, and in terms of heat transfer, they have become the leaders among all heating devices. Produces a large number of their firms and they all have their own design features that you need to know. Therefore, in this article we will consider which aluminum radiators are better and compare their technical features.

What type of aluminum radiators are better than molded or extruded?

Molded

Molded-type radiators have a higher cost. In their manufacture, each section is poured under pressure from an aluminum alloy - silumin. This alloy contains up to 12 percent silicon (for strength). All joints of individual elements are made by welding in inert gas. Manufacturability makes radiators durable. Radiators of necessary heat output are formed from separate sections.

Casting section of aluminum radiator.

Their advantages:

• Reliability and tightness of connections.
• Possibility of modification by adding or subtracting sections.

Their minus:

• Higher price.

Extrusion

To reduce the cost of production of aluminum radiators, the extrusion method was used to manufacture the central part. The item is not poured, but extruded on an extruder at elevated pressure. Then it is pressed with the upper and lower headers (they are cast). Often, when connecting parts of a battery, composite glue is used, which makes the finished product even cheaper. Disassembly extrusion heatsink is not subject.

An example of a Thermal aluminum radiator made by extrusion.

Their advantages:

• Made from recycled aluminum, they have a slightly higher heat transfer.
• The internal volume of one section is two or one and a half times less than that of a cast radiator.
• Lower mass due to the smaller thickness of the ribs.
• Low price.

Their minuses:

• The battery cannot be disassembled for repair or alteration.
• The weak point is the connection of the collector to the section. It can often appear to flow. Either the glue will not stand, or the Teflon or rubber sealing rings will wear out.
• Sometimes these radiators crackle due to temperature differences.

Injection radiators are more reliable. And if you look at this side on which aluminum radiators are better, then it is best to give preference to cast products. Extrusion usually have thinner walls and withstand less working pressure. It is possible to take a closer look at extrusion radiators in the event that finances are significantly limited or the small weight of the products and the saving of the coolant are essentially important. Only with the purchase of any radiator (both injection and extrusion), by all means choose a reliable brand. By the way, we will continue to tell about brands.

Choosing a manufacturer

Italian manufacturers

Global, Sira, Ferroli are considered to be the best in this segment. You can also call Calidor and Faral. Models of radiators, produced by Italian manufacturers, are distinguished by their stylishness, elegance of form and excellent finish. The price of one section is from 350 to 700 rubles (approximately). Now about the properties.

• The heat-resistant enamel coating does not crack even from boiling water.
• The internal surface of products is extremely durable and well-treated, often even has a polymer coating. This is great - then surely no corrosion will eat aluminum.
• Good pressure performance (16-20 bar).

Russian manufacturers

Here the first place has been long and firmly won by the company RIFAR. Note that it is licensed to make some radiators, which are a complete copy of the models of the Italian manufacturer - Global. Maintaining a working pressure of up to 20 bar, they and the design are very attractive. And if you ask, the aluminum radiators of which company are better adapted to the harsh Russian conditions, you will not have to wait long for an answer. Naturally, domestic production, and more specifically - from the company RIFAR. The price of one "rifarovskoy" aluminum section - about 400 rubles.

Chinese manufacturers

The most famous and responsible manufacturers are Konner and Bilux. Their products can be called a budget option, costing 350 rubles and below (per one section). By the way, many well-known brands sell licenses for their products to China, so today it is quite possible to buy inexpensive, and even very high-quality Chinese radiators. When buying them, follow two simple tips:

• Carefully examine the characteristics of the radiator specified in the passport. If they are not indicated there or the passport is completely absent, refrain from buying.
• Buy radiators only in a specialty store, and certainly not on the market. So you will have a guarantee that can come in handy (who knows).

When buying these heaters, remember that any aluminum radiator, even the most promoted manufacturer, is afraid of water with a high pH. In no case should it exceed 7.5 units. Therefore, it makes sense to install aluminum heaters only if the coolant in the system meets these requirements.

Table: Technical specifications of popular models of aluminum radiators for heating

* All values ​​in the table are for section 1 and are taken from the official manufacturers website.

** Thermal power indicated at 70 ⁰ C.