Instructions for installing and connecting a steam generator for a sauna or hammam

Since ancient times, Turkey has been famous for its public baths, in which men and women wash and take steam baths separately. Such establishments are called “ hammams ” .
Previously, large vats filled with water were installed to create a high temperature in a Turkish bath. The boilers were constantly heated, the liquid boiled in them. As a result, steam was formed, which escaped into the room through holes in the structure of the vessel. The marble walls and floor of the ancient Turkish bath also participated in the process of steam formation. To do this, they were watered with water. In the modern world, it is no longer necessary to use marble and boilers with boiling liquid to generate steam in the hammam. The current owners of Turkish baths install the latest high-tech equipment, including high-quality steam generators.

Health effect

Even in ancient times, doctors proved the benefits of visiting the hammam. Together with steam and warm water, all ailments (asthma, bronchitis, colds) are washed away, cheerfulness appears, and the soul is filled with peace.

Many spas offer a hammam along with other treatments. After all, a steamed body more effectively perceives health-improving manipulations (massage) and the use of cosmetic techniques (peeling, masks, etc.).

Preparation of equipment and materials

What you will need for manufacturing and installation:

• ball valves that can withstand elevated temperatures;
• heating elements (heating elements);
• gaskets for heating elements (they must be heat-resistant);
• safety valve;
• a hose is used for the steam line;
• bends with corresponding connecting diameters;
• a container that can withstand high pressure (for example, an old gas cylinder);
• pressure gauge

The gas cylinder is prepared before use:

The integrity of the walls is checked for the absence of defects. The top valve is carefully removed. Water is poured into the cylinder to completely displace gas residues. The upper part of the cylinder is cut off at the welding seam. The inner surface of the container is thoroughly washed using detergents.

Advantages of a steam generator for a hammam

Thanks to such quality as safety, the heat exchanger has gained the sympathy of bathhouse owners. Compared to traditional stoves, the risk of getting burned on the structure body is minimized. Installing such a device in a bathhouse guarantees a comfortable and useful rest in the steam room. Facilitation of the operating conditions of the steam generator is also achieved by automating the process of washing the apparatus with descaling.

The ease of use of the device is due to the simplicity of its design and simple operating principle. The tank built into the device is filled with liquid from the water supply system. When the device is connected to a power source, electronic sensors and a solenoid valve are activated, responsible for maintaining the required water level. The liquid that fills the tank heats up evenly and releases steam, which enters the room through pipes.

Choosing a location for installation

It is better to install the steam generator in a room that is located near the bathroom. The distance from the steam generator to the shower stall should not be more than 10-15 m. A pantry or kitchen is suitable for this. The steam generator is connected to the water supply, electrical network, and sewerage. You just need to choose a place that makes installation convenient.

Experts advise adhering to the basic rules when installing equipment. The distance from the walls to the floor should be at least fifty centimeters. The steam generator pipe must be given a slope directed towards the shower stall. This will allow moisture condensed on the surface of the pipe to flow down.

The pipe entry point should be provided at the bottom of the wall. This must be done so that visitors do not get burned if they accidentally touch it. Where it is planned to install the steam generator, there must be good ventilation. Due to this, additional moisture that appears during operation of the device can evaporate faster. The area required for installation is selected taking into account the model.

Characteristics of devices

Everyone who has ever used a similar device installed in a bathhouse at least once notes the ease of its operation. At the same time, no one needed to use special skills and knowledge. To select the most suitable temperature regime and obtain the optimal steam density, you just need to use the thermoregulation device installed on the body of the device. Having set the necessary parameters, you can be sure that a stable microclimate will reign in the steam room, the maintenance of which does not require any additional expenditure of human energy.

In modern hammams, as a rule, the temperature is maintained at 30-55 degrees, and the humidity approaches 100%. Thanks to the use of a steam generator that produces fairly light steam, a certain comfort is created in the room even for those people who cannot stand extreme heat.

Heat exchange devices with a power from 2 to 16 kW are excellent for Turkish baths. If a device with a maximum value cannot cope with a large volume of room, it is allowed to connect additional devices with similar characteristics to a single circuit. All heat exchangers are installed in a technical room, where the air is much drier than in a steam room. The presence of a certain amount of high-tech equipment in one room requires the arrangement of natural ventilation.

Brands

A lot of them. From serious professional equipment to Chinese crafts. When choosing, remember that the stingy pays twice and that health is more expensive. For ourselves, we have chosen two brands that are convenient for us to work with - Tylo and Hygromatik. Tylo is suitable for private use. For commercial purposes it is better to take Hygromatik. Hygromatik is good because it is one of the few world-class companies that deals only with steam generators and knows its business very well.

Unit control mechanism

Using an electronic remote control, the temperature and steam intensity are adjusted. In addition, devices for monitoring the operation of the device are located on the body of the device itself. There is the possibility of automatic and manual adjustment. The presence of a display on the remote control of some models allows you to study information about using all the functions of the device. Using a timer, you can program the hammam. You just need to specify the necessary parameters and set the time to turn the steam generator on and off. By adjusting the temperature of heated, humid air, you can achieve the effects of relaxation, sweating and removal of toxins. The sensor installed in the steam room will transmit a signal about the existing temperature in the room directly to the control panel. When choosing a heat exchanger with a device for monitoring the operation of the device, you should carefully think through the options for the requests that it should solve.

Step by step steps when using a pressure cooker

It’s convenient to make a steam generator with your own hands from a pressure cooker for a small steam room. Much less manipulation will be required than with a gas cylinder.

1. Holes are drilled for inserting the heating element at a height of 10 mm from the bottom of the pan.
2. The heating element is secured with studs, bolts and nuts.
3. Heat-resistant insulating gaskets are required at the attachment point. You can also make them yourself. A sheet of thick paper is laid on a clean horizontal surface and a layer of sealant is applied to it to occupy a significant area of ​​the sheet. Then the layer is leveled and covered with another sheet of paper and glass. To increase the pressure, something heavy is placed on top. After drying, the appropriate gaskets are cut out of the silicone layer with a tube of suitable diameter.
4. After fixing the heating element, water is poured into the pan to check the tightness.
5. Just below the heating element there is a curved copper tube for supplying water.
6. Since the capacity of a homemade steam generator is very small, there is a danger of water quickly boiling away, which will damage the heating elements. It is necessary to ensure the flow of fluid automatically. One solution is to place a separate container next to the homemade steam generator connected to a water supply tube. Both devices must be at the same height. A float valve mounted on the bottom of an additional vessel opens when the liquid level drops and adds water to the steam generator.
7. A hole is drilled in the lid of the pan, and a hose is attached using connecting fittings to allow steam to escape.

Installation features

Installation of a steam generator in a Turkish bath, as a rule, is carried out only in a well-ventilated, dry room. Equally important is the installation of a bathhouse with a plumbing system, the pressure in which must be maintained at 0.2-10 bar. It is important that the temperature of the heated water does not reach 65 degrees. In addition, a prerequisite is the supply of electricity with the required power.

When installing such a device, you need to ensure that the steam line made of copper does not bend, otherwise water pockets may form with condensed liquid accumulating in them, blocking the exit of heated moist air. The shorter the length of the steam line, the less condensate will accumulate in it. It is also important to insulate the copper pipe.

Step by step steps when using a gas cylinder

1. A heating element is inserted into the bottom of the selected container at a distance of about 10-15 mm from the bottom. When installing several heating elements, it is better to first cut in and secure one, and then drill the following holes to prevent them from being too close. If you have to weld a sleeve to install a heating element, the design of the unit must withstand high pressure. The heating elements are sealed using heat-resistant gaskets on both sides of the opening. It is necessary to provide for the possibility of free removal of the heating element when replacing it in case of failure.
2. Squeegees are welded to the cut-off cover for connecting control devices (contact pressure gauge with arrows, safety valve). You can combine them together (safety group), then only one hole is used.
3. At a distance of 10 cm from the bottom of the cylinder, a water supply pipe is inserted. The container with water from which it will be supplied to the steam generator is made of translucent plastic and connected to the device with a hose made of heat-resistant material. This way you can easily control the amount of incoming water.
4. Another method can be used to determine the water level inside, but it will require more holes. The tap pipe is welded to the side. It must be placed below the required upper level by 1-1.5 cm. When filling with water, the tap opens and water flowing out of it is a signal for the end of filling. It is necessary to ensure that the tap is turned off before turning on the steam generator.
5. The valve for steam release will be the standard cylinder valve. It connects to the steam line. To prevent steam from escaping in a narrow stream, you can install a 50 cm long steel pipe with numerous holes made on it for dispersion.
6. A lock is installed on the upper edge of the cylinder, ensuring tightness using a rubber seal.
7. The lid and the lower part are connected using L-shaped studs and nuts.

It is much simpler to make a hermetically sealed connection between two parts - weld them, but then the device will be beyond repair.

The designed device must be tested in action to identify and eliminate deficiencies.

How to correctly calculate the power of a hammam device

From a mathematical point of view, the power indicator of the device is determined by the following formula: steam room volume (m³) x K1 x K2 = required value (kW)

, Where:

• K1=0.75 – ventilated room;
• K1=0.52 – unventilated room;
• K2=1 – acrylic steam room;
• K2=1.25 – special thermally insulated panels and tiles (mosaic);
• K2=1.5 – concrete walls and tiles (mosaic).

As a first approximation, we can assume that the required power will be approximately equal to the volume of the steam room.

If a high value is required, then, as a rule, several heat exchangers can be connected in parallel, for example, HELO HSX CD. Thus, the maximum total power will be 4x14=56 kW.

Based on this calculation, the owner of a Turkish bath can decide to install and connect several steam generators connected to one control panel. In this case, the devices can be placed on the floor or hung on the wall.

Water supply methods

Water is supplied to the steam generator tank using two methods:

• self-filling of water by the user;
• automatic supply from the water supply.

If you make a steam generator for a bath yourself, then automatic water supply is more difficult to implement. Another disadvantage of this scheme is that the content of impurities in tap water or its increased hardness quickly provokes the formation of scale, which will require frequent cleaning. When filling the reservoir manually, you can use distilled water.

You can also familiarize yourself with the reasons why water may leak from the steam generator.

Popular brands

You can buy a steam generator for a Turkish bath in the online store. Today this device is gaining popularity, which means there is plenty to choose from. Among the well-known brands represented on the domestic market, TYLO, HARVIA, SAWO and HELO . They are most suitable for arranging Turkish baths, where heavy, damp steam is needed. All of these manufacturers produce products made of stainless steel.

A feature of Finnish devices is the presence in their design of devices that facilitate cleaning and descaling. Steam generators produced by the Swedish company TYLO are considered the most reliable and unpretentious devices to use. The heat exchanger for the HARVIA is of high quality, which today is considered the most important sign of a good attitude towards consumers.

Network connection

Attention! The connection of the steam generator to the network must be carried out by a qualified electrician. Using the steam generator without grounding is PROHIBITED!

When connecting to the network, use the table below

To connect to the network, the steam generator is equipped with a group of terminals. Access to the terminals is possible through a removable cover on the top panel of the steam generator. When choosing a cable cross-section for connecting a steam generator, you must be guided by the table in the “ Network Connection ” section. It is recommended to use PVA grade wire, or any other copper wire of the required cross-section. During installation, it is recommended to use cable lugs for crimping wires.

When choosing a circuit breaker, refer to the table in the “ Network Connection ” section, which shows the rated currents for each steam generator model.

Attention!!! It is necessary to install a circuit breaker ONLY with characteristic B.

Steam generator models TULA30, TULA40 and TULA50 are designed for connection to a single-phase network. The appearance of the terminal blocks of single-phase steam generator models is shown in the figure below

G - Grounding

L – Phase

N – Neutral

Steam generator models TULA75, TULA90, TULA120 and TULA150 are designed for connection to a three-phase network. The steam generator is wired according to the “star” circuit. The appearance of the terminal blocks of three-phase steam generator models is shown in the figure below

G - Grounding

L1 – Phase 1

L2 – Phase 2

L3 – Phase 3

N – Neutral

Models of steam generators TULA45 and TULA60 can be connected to both a three-phase network and a single-phase one. When connecting to a single-phase network, you must install a jumper between terminals L1, L2, L3 (the jumper is not included in the kit and must be purchased separately).

Attention!!! When connecting TULA45 and TULA60 steam generators to a single-phase network, do not make a mistake in choosing the wire cross-section; refer to the table in the “ Characteristics ” section.

1 and 2 – 220V power supply for the regulator.

3 and 4 – control signal from the 220V regulator

5 and 6 – for connecting the slave steam generator

7 and 8 – for connecting a protective contactor.

Caring for the device

Poor water quality, containing large amounts of metal salts and iron oxide, has a negative impact on important parts of the steam generator. As a result of the constant use of unfiltered liquid, limescale deposits form inside the device, which over time causes the device to break down.

Before installing the steam generator in the bathhouse, it is necessary to check the water for hardness. It is also necessary to carry out special preparatory work related to the installation of a valve for automatically flushing the unit and draining liquid from it. Although the Turkish bath steam generator will rinse automatically, it should also be descaled. The instructions included with the device describe everything in detail.

The above actions will ensure the uninterrupted operation and longevity of the steam generator.

Installation technology

Preparatory stage. Before installing the steam generator, you should prepare the shower cabin. Complete sealing will allow the device to work efficiently. This can be achieved by installing a special cap at the top. In some models, this element is provided by the manufacturer. If it is missing, then the part must be purchased at the store. During preparatory work, air convection is needed inside the bathing box. It will be enough to provide several fans. A good option is considered to be devices with a power of 12 W, which ensure the movement of air masses necessary for steam procedures.

When connecting the device, you must follow safety rules. Contact of an electrical wire that is energized with water vapor often causes a short circuit. It is recommended to consider installing the steam generator outside the bathroom. To do this, you need to install a steam supply pipe in the shower stall.

Tools and materials

To install the device correctly, prepare the necessary tools for the job. The craftsman needs to have a drill and a set of drills, dowels and screws, an adjustable wrench, a flexible metal hose, and a copper pipe. It is worth providing plastic pipes that allow you to connect the steam generator to the drain. To select the diameter of the pipes and hose before work, read the manufacturer's instructions.

Connecting the safety contactor

The steam generator is equipped with two independent overheat protection circuits.

The first circuit has its own protective limit thermostat with a reset button rated at 120°C. This circuit turns off the operating contactors of the steam generator if the temperature in the tank exceeds the nominal value.

The second circuit also has a separate protective limit thermostat with a reset button rated at 120°C and is designed for connecting an external protective contactor (not included in the kit). The limit thermostat has a normally closed contact, the outputs of which are connected to terminals 7 and 8.

To ensure maximum safety, it is recommended to use a safety contactor. This will allow the steam generator to be de-energized if the primary protective circuit does not work for some reason.

Attention!!! The protective contactor coil must be designed for power supply from an alternating current network of 220V 50Hz.

When choosing a protective contactor, you should be guided by the table from the section “ Connecting to the network”.

The connection diagram for the protective contactor is shown in the figure below.

Cabin price

The cost of a shower cabin with a steam generator, as noted earlier, is much higher than for conventional models. The budget version of Chinese production does not cost less than 35 thousand rubles. For comparison, a cabin from a German manufacturer with the same functions will cost at least 270 thousand rubles, and a cabin made in Finland will cost at least 158 ​​thousand rubles.

Table 2. Average cost of shower cabins with a steam generator.

Prices for multifunctional shower cabins

Multifunctional shower cabin

Setting the sensitivity of the level sensor

The electronic unit of the steam generator is equipped with a knob for adjusting the sensitivity of the level sensors. This allows you to configure the steam generator to work with water of different conductivity.

If the device does not receive information about the presence of water on the sensors, but there is water on the sensors, turn the adjustment knob clockwise until the indication of the presence of water appears, and continue rotating by half the value of the division after the indication appears.

If there is no water on the sensors, but the device indicates the presence of water, turn the knob counterclockwise until the indication of the presence of water disappears, and continue rotating by half the value of the division after the indication disappears.

Herbal collections

Steam generators (models TULA30, TULA40, TULA50 only) are equipped with a built-in container for herbal preparations. The container is a small-volume basket made of stainless mesh. The use of herbal mixtures in more powerful models is not recommended due to the risk of rupture of the filter bag and clogging of the steam line.

Before planting the herbal collection, you must:

1. disconnect the steam generator from the electrical network using the on/off button
2. open the filler cap of the steam generator and remove the container with the herbal mixture
3. put the required amount of collection into the container
4. place the container with the herbal mixture into the filler hole and close the lid tightly
5. Turn on the steam generator.
6. disconnect the steam generator from the electrical network using the on/off button
7. open the steam generator filler cap
8. open the drain valve and drain the remaining water from the steam generator
9. close the drain valve and turn on the steam generator
10. wait until water fills the steam generator (the “top” indicator on the steam generator body lights up) for about 30-60 seconds.
11. disconnect the steam generator from the electrical network using the on/off button
12. open the tap again and drain the water