What are 16 Bar Expansion Vessels?

16 bar expansion vessels are devices that are used to maintain the pressure and volume of water in medium pressure systems, such as heating, cooling, and solar systems. They are also known as pressure vessels, expansion tanks, or accumulators. 16 bar expansion vessels have a maximum working pressure of 16 bar, which means they can withstand the pressure of water up to 16 times the atmospheric pressure.

How do 16 Bar Expansion Vessels Work?

The main function of 16 bar expansion vessels is to compensate for the thermal expansion and contraction of water in the system.  This causes changes in the pressure and volume of water in the system. If the pressure is too high, it can damage the pipes, valves, pumps, and other components of the system. If the pressure is too low, it can reduce the efficiency and performance of the system. 16 bar expansion vessels consist of two main parts: a steel shell and a flexible membrane. The steel shell is the outer casing of the vessel that protects it from external forces and corrosion. The flexible membrane is the inner part of the vessel that separates the water from the air or gas. The membrane is usually made of EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or butyl rubber, which are resistant to high temperatures and chemicals.

The water side of the membrane is connected to the system through a flange or a threaded connection. The air or gas side of the membrane is pre-charged with a certain pressure, usually 3, 4, or 6 bar. The pre-charge pressure is the minimum pressure that the vessel maintains in the system. The pre-charge pressure should be adjusted according to the static pressure and the safety valve setting of the system. When the water in the system is heated, it expands and pushes the membrane towards the air or gas side. This reduces the volume of the air or gas and increases its pressure. The vessel acts as a cushion that absorbs the excess pressure and volume of the water. When the water in the system is cooled, it contracts and pulls the membrane towards the water side. This increases the volume of the air or gas and decreases its pressure. The vessel acts as a spring that releases the stored pressure and volume of the water. By doing so, 16 bar expansion vessels help to maintain a constant and optimal pressure and volume of water in the system. This improves the safety, efficiency, and performance of the system. It also reduces the wear and tear of the system components and extends their lifespan.

What are the Types and Sizes of 16 Bar Expansion Vessels? There are different types and sizes of 16 bar expansion vessels available in the market. Some of the common types are: -

**Waterline High Pressure 16 Bar**: These are expansion vessels with a replaceable membrane for use in sealed heating and cooling systems. They have a standard pre-charge of 3, 4, or 6 bar and a maximum working temperature of 120 °C. They are suitable for addition of glycol-based anti-freeze up to 50%. They are delivered with a pressure gauge and height adjustable feet (except 1200 - 2000 litres). -

**Flexcon M - 16 bar**: These are expansion vessels with a replaceable membrane for use in sealed heating and cooling systems. They have a standard pre-charge of 3, 4, or 6 bar and a maximum working temperature of 120 °C. They are suitable for addition of glycol-based anti-freeze up to 50%. They have a red epoxy powder coating. They are delivered with a pressure gauge and are equipped with an inspection flange. The Flexcon M 2800 litres are delivered with height adjustable feet. -

**Global Water Solutions Max (16 bar) Range**: These are multifunctional tanks that are suitable for potable or non-potable applications. They have a replaceable membrane with a strong AISI 304 stainless steel inox flange. The size of the 16 bar expansion vessel depends on the volume and temperature of the water in the system. The size can be calculated using the same formula as for the 10 bar expansion vessel, but with a different maximum pressure value.

For example, if the water capacity of the system is 2000 litres, the maximum temperature is 80 °C, the minimum temperature is 20 °C, the maximum pressure is 16 bar, and the pre-charge pressure is 4 bar, the size of the 16 bar expansion vessel can be calculated as follows:

V = k * C * (v1 - v0) / (p1 - p0)

V = 1.1 * 2000 * (0.001029 - 0.001003) / (16 - 4)

V = 14.48 litres

or V = 0.1 * C * (T1 - T0) / 100

V = 0.1 * 2000 * (80 - 20) / 100

V = 12 litres

Therefore, a 16 bar expansion vessel with a volume of around 12 litres would be suitable for this system.

Why are 16 Bar Expansion Vessels Important?

16 bar expansion vessels are essential components of medium pressure systems. They help to regulate the pressure and volume of water in the system and prevent damage and inefficiency. They should be selected and installed according to the specifications and requirements of the system. They should also be maintained and checked regularly to ensure their proper functioning and safety.