From the outdated “worm” model of the crane box, the structure of the new device includes ceramic inserts. The part due to which the jet is shut off and fed is made of cermet, namely aluminum oxide.
Content:
- Principle of operation ↓
- Design ↓
- Advantages and disadvantages ↓
- Malfunctions ↓
- DIY repair / replacement ↓
- Price and manufacturers ↓
The device consists of 2 plates with neat holes. Products are so durable that they do not appear to be defective. As a result of divergence and reverse convergence, the flow of water comes into motion, which is easily controlled. With a minimum number of moving parts and their reliability, there is a smooth control of the jet stream.
Principle of operation
The frame is made from a compound of non-ferrous metals. The frame does not need additional elements, since its inner part consists of a rubber gasket - this improves the quality of tightness. On the sides of the frame are slots through which water enters.
The number of structural components for the crane axle box includes:
- housing;
- upper and lower rotational plates;
- special turn signal;
- stock together with a clamp;
- reliable, sealing gasket;
At first, it may seem that the ceramic axle box on the characteristics is no different from older models, especially if you pay attention only to the upper part. Differences will immediately become noticeable if the crane axles are twisted.
During the rotation of the stem with a turn signal, the upper ceramic plate moves. Along with this, the holes located in the upper and lower parts coincide completely.
After that, water moves through these openings, is supplied above and exits through the holes in the frame 1 (2) into the chamber of the mixing mechanism, and already from it enters the mixer spout. In the closed position, the holes located in the lower part are covered by the upper one.
Design
Unlike its predecessors, the modern ceramic box crane has a completely different structure. Typically, the water pressure is shut off due to the smooth lowering of the stem as a result of turning the tap.
Sometimes a single-hole ball is mounted attached to the control handle. By turning it, the pressure of hot and cold water changes. Such mechanisms are cheap and can not boast of strength, as they have a high risk of leaks.
The advanced ceramic crane box is devoid of these disadvantages. Using a professionally designed structure with minimal load, the device accurately regulates the water pressure.
The device consists of a housing, the surface of which is a mounting element for mounting the housing in a mixer or faucet. The handle is mounted on the outside of the lever, which is connected to the control elements. The locking and regulating structure, represented by two plates made of cermet, is connected together.
Advantages and disadvantages
Design features include the fact that for its effective operation, the master is obliged to twist the block into the mixer frame, otherwise the crane may disappoint.
Benefits:
- Minor opening efforts and closing mechanism.
- Small sizedue to which, a one-piece plumbing kit does not take up much space.
- The installed axle box of one of the best manufacturers has been operating for several decades.
- Stores represent a wide range axle boxes and gaskets at a low cost. In addition to wide availability and prevalence, the gasket is easily replaced with a new one. If necessary, the master can easily make a gasket from an ordinary piece of rubber.
Design disadvantages:
- Compared with other locking mechanisms, the cost of high-quality models is several times higher. Manufacturers of cheap analogues significantly save on the quality of production materials.
- Construction materials cannot withstand abrasive reactions. As a result, the top layer is damaged and hermetic characteristics are lost.
Malfunctions
Over time, even a quality product can break. So, if water suddenly stopped flowing into the tap or it stopped working at all, it is necessary to diagnose the entire working mechanism.
Malfunctions can occur for various reasons. From a professional point of view, most often the rubber gasket fails, due to the fact that it ceases to fit snugly to the surface of the mixer. No professional assistance is required to correct this damage. But if you can’t eliminate the attempt, it’s easier and faster to buy a new one.
DIY repair / replacement
After mounting the axle box in the mixer, it effortlessly takes the correct position, and after fixing it performs the work in a regular manner.
Installation instructions encourage craftsmen to be very careful about inserts because of the fragility of ceramics. Even slight mechanical stress can damage the frame. Therefore, given this feature, professionals recommend buying ready-made, assembled kits.
If after installation the product leaks, you have to disassemble everything. After that, you need to remove all dirt and replace all damaged parts.
Repair work is based on several steps:
- The device is disassembled and is removed from the crane body.
- The retainer ring is removed. For this, a slotted screwdriver is used.
- Plates are dismantled and regulatory component.
- The top layer is treated with WD-40. This allows you to get rid of rust.
- The crane is reassembling, a new gasket is mounted on its end.
If during inspection on the plates malfunctions were found, the device will have to be replaced. When buying a new model, it is better to come to the store with an old crane box, and show the seller a broken sample. So he can immediately choose the right option.
It is important to remember that when working with materials you need to be very careful so as not to spoil the sprayed layer.
Professionals use a rag or rag, placing it between the structure and the key, creating additional protection and reducing the risk of damage even at the time of installation of a new crane box. During installation, special pads consisting of soft materials are superimposed on the tools.
Price and manufacturers
The highest quality, but at the same time expensive brands serve regularly and long enough. The case does not leak, and the internal elements do not require periodic replacement.
On the contrary, inexpensive kits can leak immediately after installation, so additional efforts have to be made to solve this problem. Cheap counterparts wear out much faster, so it’s inconvenient to use them.
Conscientious manufacturers put up a high price for their products. Reliable and high-quality devices cost at least 1200 rubles and higher, but unlike their cheap counterparts, they have been working uninterrupted for decades.
To create cheaper models, manufacturers replace materials, reducing not only their cost, but also reliability. The cost of the latter can be reduced to 50 rubles per 1 piece.
Among manufacturers of sanitary equipment, there are those that are considered a miracle of modern technology. These include Oras, Jacob Delafon, Hansa, Grohee and IDO crane boxes. The principle of operation of these companies is reliability and durability.
These global brands have managed to become leaders through the use of only modern materials and the latest equipment. All manufacturers include both exclusive models and budget options in the lineup.
