1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your Flamco Airfix A MAG-W 18/4.0 potable water expansion tank. This expansion vessel is designed to prevent pressure fluctuations and water loss in domestic hot water systems, ensuring system longevity and efficiency. Please read these instructions carefully before installation and retain them for future reference.
Figure 1: Flamco Airfix A MAG-W 18/4.0 Potable Water Expansion Tank. This image shows the complete expansion tank with its connection valve at the top, ready for installation into a potable water system.
2. Setup and Installation
Installation of the Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank should only be performed by a qualified professional in accordance with local plumbing and safety regulations. Ensure the system is depressurized and drained before beginning installation.
2.1 Safety Precautions
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Ensure the system is isolated and depressurized before connecting the tank.
- Do not exceed the maximum operating pressure of 10 bar.
- Verify the pre-charge pressure before installation.
2.2 Installation Steps
- Choose Location: Install the expansion tank in a location that is easily accessible for maintenance and inspection, and protected from freezing temperatures.
- Mounting: Securely mount the tank using appropriate brackets if necessary. The tank can be installed in any position.
- Connect to System: Connect the expansion tank to the potable hot water system, typically on the cold water supply line to the water heater, before any shut-off valves or check valves. Use appropriate fittings and sealing materials to ensure a leak-free connection.
- Check Pre-charge: Before commissioning, verify the nitrogen pre-charge pressure using a pressure gauge. The factory pre-charge is 4.0 bar. Adjust if necessary to match the system's static pressure.
- System Fill: Slowly fill the system with water, bleeding air from all high points. Check for leaks at all connections.
Figure 2: Exploded view of the Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank. This illustration shows the separate components of the tank and its connection valve, demonstrating how they fit together during installation.
Figure 3: Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank with the valve attached. This image depicts the expansion tank with its connection valve securely in place, illustrating the assembled unit prior to system integration.
3. Operating Principles
The Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank operates by absorbing the increased volume of water that occurs when potable water is heated. This prevents excessive pressure buildup and the discharge of water through the safety relief valve, thereby conserving water and protecting the system components.
3.1 Flowthrough Technology
This expansion tank incorporates advanced 'Flowthrough' technology. This design ensures that the potable water inside the tank is continuously circulated and mixed with the system water, preventing stagnation and inhibiting bacterial growth, including Legionella. The internal membrane is ACS certified, ensuring it does not impart any odor, color, or taste to the potable water.
Figure 4: Internal view of the Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank demonstrating water flow. This diagram illustrates the 'Flowthrough' mechanism, showing how water circulates within the tank to prevent stagnation and ensure freshness.
3.2 Nitrogen Pre-charge
The tank is pre-charged with nitrogen, an inert gas, which helps maintain the membrane's integrity and extends the life of the tank by preventing internal corrosion that could occur with oxygen-filled tanks. The pre-charge pressure is factory set to 4.0 bar.
4. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the optimal performance and longevity of your Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank. It is recommended to have the system inspected annually by a qualified professional.
4.1 Annual Inspection
- Visual Check: Inspect the tank for any signs of external damage, corrosion, or leaks.
- Connection Integrity: Verify that all connections are secure and free from leaks.
- Pre-charge Pressure Check: The nitrogen pre-charge pressure should be checked annually. To do this, the system must be depressurized and the tank isolated from the water supply. Use a suitable pressure gauge to measure the pressure at the air valve. Adjust if necessary to match the system's static pressure.
- Functionality Test: Observe the system's pressure fluctuations during heating cycles to ensure the expansion tank is effectively absorbing expansion.
5. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your expansion tank.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Frequent discharge from safety relief valve | Low or no pre-charge pressure in the expansion tank. Tank is undersized. | Check and adjust pre-charge pressure. Consult a professional to verify tank sizing for your system. |
| Water hammer or banging pipes | Incorrect pre-charge pressure. Air in the system. | Verify and adjust pre-charge pressure. Bleed air from the system. |
| Water leaking from air valve | Damaged internal membrane. | The tank requires replacement. Contact a qualified professional. |
| Corrosion on tank exterior | Environmental factors, chemical exposure. | Ensure proper ventilation and avoid exposure to corrosive substances. Replace if structural integrity is compromised. |
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 24459 |
| Brand | Flamco |
| Capacity | 18 Liters |
| Pre-charge Pressure | 4.0 bar (Nitrogen) |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 10 Bars |
| Material | Alloy Steel (Epoxy coated interior and exterior) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 80 x 32.8 x 32.3 cm |
| Weight | 4.9 Kilograms |
| Special Features | Flow-through design, ACS certified butyl rubber membrane, galvanized steel sealing ring |
| Color | White |
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Warranty Information
Flamco provides a commitment to quality for its products. Spare parts for the Flamco Airfix A MAG-W expansion tank are available for a period of 2 years from the date of purchase. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided with your product or contact Flamco customer service.
7.2 Customer Support
If you require technical assistance, have questions regarding installation, operation, or maintenance, or need to report a product issue, please contact your local Flamco distributor or visit the official Flamco website for support contact details. When contacting support, please have your product model number (24459) and purchase information readily available.
