Why do you need a chimney damper and how to make it yourself? Do-it-yourself chimney damper

Most private houses and cottages are equipped with autonomous heating systems running on gas, solid and liquid fuels. The efficiency of heating the coolant largely depends on the quality of combustion products exhaust and the volume of fresh air entering the furnace. When the boiler is turned off, it becomes necessary to close the outlet channel so that warm air from the room is not sucked into it and foreign objects do not fall into the oven. To perform these tasks, a chimney damper is used - a simple but effective device, invented many centuries ago almost simultaneously with the advent of the first stoves. The part can be included with the boiler or purchased separately. If you have ordinary household tools and the ability to handle them, you can make a damper for a chimney stove with your own hands. To do this, you should familiarize yourself with the purpose, operating principle and manufacturing technology of this device.

What is it and what is it for?

Damper (from the German Schieber - damper) is a device for completely or partially blocking the movement of gases in the chimney. It has been used since the appearance of the first Russian stoves. Made from cast iron or steel. In modern engineering it has found application both in smoke exhaust structures and in ventilation systems.

Damper functions:

Regulating draft and maintaining heat in the room.

The chimney is closed after use to prevent warm air from being drawn from the room into the chimney. Using a damper, you can reduce or increase the working cross-section of the chimney.

Saving fuel consumption.

The valve can be used to regulate the intensity of oxygen flow to the flame, and accordingly increase or decrease the efficiency of the heater.

This statement is true only for furnaces and boilers without blowers and forced air supply devices.

How the gate works

Structurally, the gate is a locking device with an adjustable valve. It is thanks to the displacement of the valve that the movement of gases in the chimney is regulated. Can be installed in chimneys of round, square and rectangular cross-section. It is a metal plate that moves inside the smoke channel in a certain way.

Gate valves can be of two types:

Retractable. Moves in one plane back and forth.
Rotary. Regulates air access by rotating around its axis.

In addition, valves can be manual or equipped with an electric drive. The cost of the latter is an order of magnitude higher and they are not used in chimneys.

Functions, purpose and characteristics

The damper is a partition that is located inside the chimney. It follows the shape and area of its cross-section and, when closed, almost completely covers it. Changing the position of the damper allows you to increase or decrease the opening of the chimney pipe, increasing or decreasing the air flow. Using the damper, you can stop the movement of air after lighting the stove.

The gate valve is a thin metal plate that is manually adjusted using a special handle. The latter is located outside the chimney pipe so that the user can manually adjust the position of the plate.

Depending on the design and type of damper, it is installed using a special metal frame, or is inserted inside the pipe and fixed with an axial rod.

Important! Do not assume that the valve completely seals the pipe in the “closed” position. According to fire safety requirements, the damper must have a small hole through which weak gas exchange occurs.

The damper in the chimney performs the following functions:

increases traction force in difficult weather conditions;
increases the intensity of combustion in the furnace due to increased oxygen flow;
reduces draft when there is a strong hum in the chimney during strong winds;
saves fuel by reducing combustion intensity;
prevents heat loss after the heater has warmed up.

Very important! You can close the chimney with a damper only after the wood has completely burned and the flame has gone out. If you close the damper prematurely, this can lead to a dangerous situation due to the release of large amounts of carbon monoxide into the room. If the damper is closed too late, the efficiency of the furnace will be reduced, because Most of the heat will go out through the chimney.

Draft regulator for solid fuel boilers: selection and installation

Why do you need a draft regulator for solid fuel boilers and how to install it?

Solid fuel boilers, unlike devices using other types of fuel, are more difficult to control because they are highly inert. This may result in excess heat being generated. To regulate the intensity of fuel combustion, a draft regulator is used.

Operating principle of the draft regulator

The mechanical draft regulator operates on the principle of thermomechanics and does not require a power supply. This allows it to be used in energy-independent heating systems using solid fuel boilers.

It maintains the set coolant temperature by changing the position of the damper, which supplies air to the combustion chamber. With limited oxygen supply, combustion intensity decreases and excess heat is not released.

This eliminates overheating of structural elements, which allows you to increase the service life of the boiler. If the temperature in the pipeline needs to be raised, the damper opens slightly, increasing the access of oxygen to the flame. The draft regulator consists of the following elements:

frame;
lever arm;
immersion sleeve;
plastic handle with scale;
thermocouple;
steel chain.

The working material in the thermostat expands or contracts when the coolant in the boiler heats up and cools down. Changing its size affects the lever, which changes its position. As a result, the damper opens or closes.

Advice! The disadvantage of solid fuel boilers is their short combustion time. By loading a portion of fuel, you can ensure the operation of the heat generator for 3-4 hours. To extend the burning time, you need to reduce the air flow into the firebox. This can be achieved using a draft regulator.

Device installation

The draft regulator can be installed vertically or horizontally on the boiler. It depends on where the hole is provided for its installation. Installation is easy and quick:

If installed horizontally, the fixing screw must be in the up position.
If vertical installation is intended, the fixing screw should be on the rear side.
When you take the draft regulator out of the package, you will find that the lever has been removed. This is usually done to make the packaging smaller. The lever must be secured with a locking screw in a suitable position so that the screw is on the flat part of the lever.

The chain must be secured so that its position between the lever and the air damper is vertical. Initially it is attached only to the lever. Attaching to the damper is done during setup.

Advice! The instructions for the regulator indicate the maximum damper weight allowed when using the regulator

This should be taken into account when choosing a suitable draft regulator.

Setting the draft control

Before setting, you need to make sure that nothing prevents the damper from opening and closing freely:

Set the desired temperature on the handle (for example, 60 °C), using a suitable scale depending on the horizontal or vertical position of the regulator.
Heat the coolant in the boiler to the set temperature, monitoring the process using the built-in thermometer. The damper must be open.
Having reached the desired temperature, fasten the chain to the damper so that it is open by 1-2 mm. Check chain tension.
Secure the position of the handle with a screw.

The instructions for draft regulators from different manufacturers may contain instructions that differ from each other. Always follow the instructions for your specific model.

To effectively use a solid fuel boiler, it is necessary to be able to regulate the temperature of the coolant in the heating system. To do this, use a draft regulator that allows you to change the intensity of fuel combustion by limiting the access of air to the combustion chamber.

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Types of gate valves

There are two main types of gate valves - sliding and rotary (throttle). The design features are clear from the name: the first type works due to the perpendicular movement of the metal plate relative to the chimney pipe.

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To increase draft, the damper is moved back and almost completely extends beyond the chimney, and to reduce the flow it is pushed back into the pipe.

Retractable gate

The most popular damper for a retractable type chimney. It compares favorably with other varieties in terms of reliability and ease of use. The retractable gate is a plate with a smooth, even surface, in which there is a special longitudinal hole. It runs along the grooves in the chimney.

This type of valve is installed strictly horizontally. To change the draft force in the chimney, it is enough to move the damper in the desired direction, increasing or, conversely, reducing the cross-section for the pipe.

This option is suitable for steel pipes, but is more suitable for stoves made of brick. Its installation does not require special knowledge or significant effort.

Some models provide a small cut-out area. This ensures the safety of the structure: even if this valve is completely closed, the movement of carbon monoxide in it will continue.

Rotary gate

Another type is a rotary gate. It is a plate made of metal, which is fixed in the central part of the guide by welding.

Dimensions and principle of operation of the rotary gate

Its main portion is located in the inside of the chimney, but the tip should always remain outside. Against the background of rotation of this plate relative to its own axis, the draft in the chimney is regulated.

The disadvantage of this type is the need for fastening by welding. It is this place that is the weak point of the design: the damper will open if the fastening becomes loose.

The rotary gate is characterized by low reliability. But this indicator may vary depending on what it is made from. Most often it is used for installation in steel chimneys. It is also installed in cases where there is not enough space to extend the classic valve.

Cast iron gate

Cast iron dampers have found quite wide application in various types of stoves and fireplaces. The disadvantage of such products is their significant mass. At the same time, cast iron itself has been used for a long time in the production of valves for furnaces. This is explained by its high reliability, durability and strength.

Model range of cast iron gates

Steel type gate

A gate unit made of stainless steel is not the cheapest option. But the design is characterized by high quality and excellent performance characteristics. Its advantages are as follows:

maintaining furnace efficiency;
small weight;
long service life;
not subject to metal corrosion;
prevents soot accumulation.

These gates may have different designs depending on the characteristics of the furnace. They are relevant for chimneys made of steel or brick.

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Device, classification and requirements

A chimney or chimney is a special channel used in various buildings to remove volatile combustion products of solid fuels. It is usually a straight pipe of round cross-section, as this allows for maximum draft and minimal accumulation of soot on the walls of the chimney pipe.

Various requirements apply to the gas exhaust system, such as:

Good traction;
Availability of thermal insulation;
Easy installation and maintenance;
Long service life;
Corrosion resistance;
Smoothness of the inner walls;
Fire safety;
Aesthetic appeal;

When choosing a chimney for a solid fuel boiler, you should take into account the temperature of the combustion products. Depending on this parameter, you should select the material of the chimney pipe

Modern manufacturers produce modular chimneys from materials such as:

stainless steel;
ceramics;
plastic;
glass;

Photo 1: External installation of a chimney in a country house
The temperature of the flue gases at the outlet of the TT boiler can reach 600 degrees Celsius. Therefore, a steel and ceramic chimney is quite suitable for use in conjunction with a ZOTA solid fuel heating boiler. The use of glass and plastic chimneys is not allowed, since these materials are designed for significantly lower gas temperatures.

Separately, it is worth noting the classic brick chimney. The aggressive environment that arises inside such a structure quickly renders it unusable. That is why they give way to more modern devices.

Most often, stainless steel is used as the material for the manufacture of chimney pipes. The use of steel gives such a device a number of undeniable advantages:

has low weight compared to brick;
easy to install and assemble;
does not require foundation construction;

Photo 2: Installation of a ceramic chimney in a country house
Stainless steel chimneys according to the type of construction are divided into the following types:

Single wall

Such chimneys are a regular steel pipe. The advantage of this design is its low cost. The main disadvantage is the formation of condensation on the inner surface and, as a consequence, its freezing at sub-zero temperatures.

Double-walled (or double-circuit)

The design of such a chimney is a “pipe-in-pipe” design. A smaller diameter pipe is placed inside the main pipe, and the space between them is filled with heat-insulating material. The advantage of this design is the presence of thermal insulation that protects the chimney from the formation of condensation, but the disadvantage is that the price of such devices is much higher.

The chimney design in the form of a sandwich pipe has recently gained particular popularity. This design is a chimney assembled from individual meter-long pipes, the joints of which are equipped with heat-insulating material.

Photo 3: Stainless steel chimney sandwich design

Special requirements are placed on the wall thickness of a steel chimney. When used in conjunction with TT boilers, the wall thickness of the chimney should be 1 mm or more.

Ceramic chimneys are also used to remove combustion products from a solid fuel boiler. Like steel, they are resistant to high temperatures and aggressive environments. The thickness of their walls is much greater (1.5 cm), and therefore they are much heavier and require installation on a foundation. Also, ceramic chimneys must be strictly vertical. The presence of various bends is excluded. This feature in some cases makes the installation and installation of such a chimney impossible.

Safety precautions

When talking about gate valves, first of all we should focus on safety precautions. Already from the definition it becomes clear that this device is capable of completely blocking the natural flow of air from the room through the stove and chimney to the street. The oven can be in such a locked state only under one condition - there is nothing in it that is still smoldering even a little, much less burning.

As you know, burning wood in a stove leads to the release of carbon monoxide, which is poisonous to humans. The danger of poisoning with this gas is that a person may simply not feel the harmful effects of the gas until he begins to lose consciousness, and then it may be too late. This danger should not be underestimated: for example, it is known that the famous French writer Emile Zola died in Paris in his bedroom from carbon monoxide.

We recommend a video review of the features of gate valves of various designs.

An attentive reader may notice that valve manufacturers produce them with special holes that prevent complete blocking of the chimney. However, with regular use over time, soot and resin accumulate on these holes, which gradually reduce their throughput, and then can completely block them. Obviously, the chimney periodically needs to be cleaned and the damper is no exception, but in practice this procedure is carried out much less frequently than required by safety regulations.

Design features of the device

The design of a gate valve or “knife” valve is quite simple. It consists:

From a body that is a tee with a central extension and hollow branches. Can be equipped with a lid.
Sedel. These elements perform a guiding function and ensure the tightness of the shutter.
Locking unit (damper). This element is located perpendicular to the flow of the medium and regulates the throughput of the valve.
A rod in the upper part of the housing, responsible for moving the damper.
Control mechanism - screw, lever, drive.
A stuffing box assembly that ensures the tightness of the rod-housing pair.

Gate valve design advantages and disadvantages:

The main advantage of the fittings is their simplicity of design, low hydraulic resistance and the ability to be used for transporting media with solid inclusions.

Disadvantage: low tightness, high construction height. Such products cannot be used to carry hazardous substances, the leakage of which could be critical.

Differences between retractable and rotary gates

So far we have been talking about the retractable type of damper on a stove chimney, although there is another type - a rotary one. Let's look at how they differ.

The purpose of both types is the same - to partially or completely block the flow of flue/heated gases. The differences relate to the design.

A retractable model is a metal plate that is fixed in a frame and moves along guides in a horizontal position. There are no strict requirements for the dimensions of the device, since they must correspond to the cross-section of the chimney and completely depend on its parameters.

Thus, the valve consists of two main parts:

frame , which is fixed in the smoke exhaust duct and is motionless;
plate moving inside the frame.

Typically, both parts are made from the same material to maintain performance when heated or cooled.

A properly designed and installed damper should never completely block a stove chimney. A small gap is necessary for fire safety purposes.

The design of the rotary (throttle) gate does not extend, but rotates along an axis, as the name suggests.

A round or rectangular plate (depending on the cross-section of the chimney) is fixed on a metal rod, the free end of which extends beyond the channel and serves as an adjustment tool.

The simplest model of a rotary gate with a diameter of 120 mm. Manufacturing material – stainless steel. The smoke exhaust channel is closed by turning the handle with a curved end

Gate valves are considered more reliable and wear-resistant devices. The weak point of the rotary devices is the connection between the rod and the plate, which becomes loose over time and renders the valve unusable.

Types and designs

The chimney damper is available in several versions.

Retractable

It is a round or rectangular frame with a plate. The plate extends and retracts, thereby adjusting the cross-section of the chimney.

This option is most often used with brick and ceramic channels. To ensure incomplete sealing and avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, a small hole is made in the plate. The main advantage of this option is ease of installation.

Rotary throttle

A rotary or throttle valve (also known as a hog valve) is a plate made of steel or cast iron that rotates around an axis. The axis is a metal rod welded inside the chimney. Used in steel chimneys.

It is less reliable - over time, the welding fastening of the plate and axle weakens. You should avoid installing a rotary damper in the bathhouse - even when closed, this type of damper partially allows steam to pass through.

In addition, gate valves differ in material (the most common are stainless steel and cast iron) and the method of adjustment.

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Differences between retractable and rotary gates

The retractable damper allows you to adjust the working cross-section of the chimney, while the rotary damper only allows you to open or close the pipe. Of course, some tricks are possible - such as securing the hog in an intermediate position in different ways, but the factory equipment does not provide for this. In addition, the rotary gate complicates mechanical cleaning of the pipe.

The hog is often installed in metal chimneys, and the retractable one is installed in brick chimneys.

Which material is stronger

In addition to structural differences, types of gate valves may differ in the material of manufacture. The only possible option is metal, since it is the only one that does not burn or deform at high temperatures, and over time, even in an aggressive environment, does not change its characteristics.

For production, either cast iron or stainless steel is used. It is not possible to build a damper from cast iron yourself, since this requires, at a minimum, a forge. However, you can find both nondescript and beautifully designed cast iron dampers on sale.

Cast iron rotary gate with a comfortable handle. This design is suitable for a brick chimney with a rectangular cross-section, capable of supporting the fairly heavy weight of the device

Steel products look simpler, but their characteristics are similar to their cast iron counterparts. The advantage of steel fixtures is their light weight.

If a cast iron damper for a stove chimney is installed only on a durable, permanent structure, then a steel damper is suitable for any smoke exhaust ducts - brick and steel, rectangular and round, solid and light.

Samples of a galvanized steel damper, chimney cross-sectional diameter – 150 mm. Galvanization, unlike ordinary steel, does not react to moisture (condensation) and does not corrode

When choosing a material, you need to focus on the characteristics of the chimney pipe and the features of the interior.

For a country heating stove, a modest steel valve is sufficient, while for upgrading a Russian stove in a cottage, a custom-made cast iron valve is better suited.

Do it yourself or order it?

You choose to purchase a ready-made device or make it yourself based on the type of smoke channel, material and stage of readiness. It is easier to install a damper in the chimney at the same time as erecting a brick pipe. For stainless steel pipes, it is better to use a factory-made product.

There are not always devices on sale that match the parameters of an individual chimney. In this case, the master constructs the valve himself. It is recommended to make a gate valve with your own hands if the owner has skills in handling an angle grinder or a drill; metal work does not raise any questions. Lack of knowledge and skills is a reason to go to the store to purchase ready-made gate structures.

Chimney pipe with damper (Photo: Instagram / feanor_ra)

Selecting a location option

There are three main options for placing the damper in the chimney:

pipe-to-pipe fastening;
placement in a fireplace insert;
installation in a ventilation pipe.

Brick chimney with damper

If you place a gate valve in the outlet pipe or in the furnace firebox, that is, build this element into its design, the damper is placed on a section of pipe as close as possible to the heating boiler. This guarantees ease of control and ease of turning the valve. This is explained by the fact that the handle will not touch either the portal or the cladding area. If it is located according to the “pipe to pipe” option, no additional fastenings are required for connection with other elements of the furnace.

If you place the damper assembly in a pipe intended for ventilation, overheating of the fan motor during its operation is prevented.

Typically, ready-to-install chimneys are offered, which are equipped with everything necessary, including a slide valve. In this case, it is placed in the system in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. If it is not provided for one reason or another, it is quite possible to manufacture and install this element yourself.

Expert advice

Where to install the damper on the chimney

There are 3 options for placing the damper relative to the chimney:

Placement in the firebox of a fireplace or stove;
Fastening according to the “pipe to pipe” principle;
Installation in a ventilation pipe.

Let's consider the first 2 options:

By placing the valve in the furnace firebox or in the outlet pipe

In this case, the damper is located at a height of no more than 1 m from the firebox, on an uninsulated section of the pipe. This location is convenient for adjusting the damper.

Applicable for metal chimneys. This installation option does not require additional fasteners. When purchasing a ready-made system, you should install the valve strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How to adjust traction

Adjusting the draft using a slider is quite simple. By changing the position towards increasing the gap, we increase the flow of air to the fire and the flame flares up stronger. Reduce the gap - traction decreases. The valve is closed after the flame has completely died out - this way the oven cools down much faster.

Tips for choosing a gate valve

It must be remembered that the correct selection of an element such as a slide damper is reflected in the future not only on the draft indicator, but also on the safety of the heating system, of which the chimney is a part. Installation of the damper is carried out on any model of fireplaces and stoves, except for the most modern ones, which have a deflector.

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The main recommendations for choosing slide valves for smoke exhaust communications are as follows:

If the heating device operates by processing gas, it is better to purchase a rotary valve model. This is due to the fact that such models exclude the possibility of completely blocking the smoke exhaust channel. Thus, the heating system will be safer. The chimney, which removes combustion products from the gas stove, must be closed by at least 40 percent during operation;
There are heating systems that operate intermittently (periodic). A closed damper installed in such a heating structure, as a rule, allows steam to pass during supply, and an open damper contributes to the formation of a large amount of soot on the pipe, which is located below the plate;
It is strictly not recommended to use rotating elements for installation in sauna chimneys.

A rotating device is the most suitable option for a gas-consuming system

Note! The chimney damper is a shaped part of the chimney service, so if you purchase everything necessary for laying a chimney, it will be included with the pipes. Such shutters can be purchased at any specialized store or ordered using an online store on the Internet.

Experts recommend carefully measuring the cross-section of the smoke exhaust duct before purchasing a gate product. Perhaps this is the main thing that needs to be done before purchasing a gate.

Sales of solid fuel boilers with automation

Automation is present on all types of boilers: classic, pyrolysis and long-burning.

From simple mechanical systems to the most advanced: electronic ones with the ability to remotely control and monitor via the Internet.

Any automatic electronic system for heating boilers consists of sensors (temperature, pressure, draft, flame), actuators and a controller that controls these devices according to a given program and readings from sensors.

Gate valve control

The damper is installed in any solid fuel boiler at the outlet of the furnace in front of the chimney and serves to regulate the draft and the rate of removal of gases released during fuel combustion.

Correct setting of the slide valve significantly increases the efficiency of the boiler, and if it is absent, most of the useful energy will simply “fly down the drain.” And this causes increased wear and tear on the boiler and chimney due to overheating.

Photo 1. A slide valve with an electromagnetic drive for an automatic solid fuel boiler increases its efficiency.

The slide damper drive can be either electromagnetic, providing two positions (fully open - half open), or motorized, which will allow more precise control of the chimney cross-section.

The temperature sensor is installed in the boiler jacket. When the temperature of the coolant rises, the automation closes the gate, reducing draft and reducing the power of the boiler; when it decreases, on the contrary, it opens and increases power.

Fans

Another way to regulate draft is to use fans to force air circulation in the boiler. It is borrowed from industrial units, where efficiency plays an important role due to the volume of fuel.

Photo 2. WPA X2 blower fan for boilers operating on solid fuel cells.

There are two types of fans for long-burning boilers:

Blower fan - placed in front of the firebox instead of the ash pan door and affects the supply of oxygen to the combustion chamber, thereby regulating the intensity of fuel combustion.
Smoke exhauster - placed either at the beginning of the chimney (immediately after the boiler) or at its end.

The main task is to regulate draft, as well as to strengthen it when natural draft is not enough for the boiler to operate efficiently (due to weather conditions or chimney design).

The rotation speed of the fans, and, consequently, their effect on the draft in the system, can be smoothly controlled over a wide range using a thyristor control unit.

Attention! If the coolant temperature is insufficient, the controller increases the draft by changing the fan speed. If the boiler is too hot, the draft decreases

Features of installation of gate valves

To install the throttle valve, it is necessary to make markings on the pipe in order to drill holes according to the welded valve structure.

To do this, you need to measure the pipe using a measuring tape and make marks for future holes. After making sure that the marks are symmetrical, use a drill to drill holes for the future rotary handle.

The throttle valve is installed as follows:

A steel damper circle with a welded tube is inserted into the chimney pipe.
A metal rod is threaded through the drilled holes in the pipe through a small tube, the end of which is secured with a bolt and nut.
The end of the rod is bent using pliers for a rotary handle.

Important! It is advisable to install a wooden element at the end of the rod, which will serve not only as decoration, but also as protection from touching hot metal, since the damper will become very hot during operation.

Next, you can install the resulting structure in the chimney pipe. To do this, the first piece of pipe is put on the furnace pipe of the stove heating, onto which a structure with a gate valve is installed on top. The next piece of metal pipe is put on the gate. All connections are treated with liquid silicone sealant.

Installation of a retractable damper in a brick chimney occurs during the masonry process. To do this, after 6-8 rows of bricks, a layer of cement masonry mortar is applied, on which a wire frame is installed with the open side facing the performer. You need to insert a latch into the frame and bring it into the closed state.

The frame is covered with mortar on top and bricks continue to be laid according to the standard pattern.

Attention! The slide damper is allowed to be installed in the first section of the chimney, at a height of up to 1 m above the firebox. This will ensure ease of adjustment of the damper and good aerodynamic properties of the chimney.

Expert advice

Where to install the damper on the chimney

There are 3 options for placing the damper relative to the chimney:

Placement in the firebox of a fireplace or stove;
Fastening according to the “pipe to pipe” principle;
Installation in a ventilation pipe.

Let's consider the first 2 options:

By placing the valve in the furnace firebox or in the outlet pipe

In this case, the damper is located at a height of no more than 1 m from the firebox, on an uninsulated section of the pipe. This location is convenient for adjusting the damper.

How to adjust traction

DIY making

The simplicity of the design of the damper plate for the chimney allows you to make it yourself to ensure further regulation of the draft in it.

Option 1. Manufacturing a rotary gate from stainless steel

We offer detailed instructions for manufacturing the damper already with a finished stove heating, when the design is completed, but the damper mechanism was not provided.

To make and install a gate valve with your own hands, you will need the following materials:

grinder, cutting and grinding abrasive wheel;
drill;
tap;
oil for lubricating the tap when cutting threads;
hammer;
vice;
pliers;
welding;
core;
electrodes for stainless steel;
compass;
roulette;
permanent marker.

The materials you should immediately prepare are:

stainless steel sheet 1.5 -2 mm thick.
stainless steel tube with an internal diameter of 6 mm;
2 bolts 8mm,
nail (or metal rod).

When all the tools and materials are prepared, you can begin to carry out the work.

Measure the inside diameter of the pipe and mark it on the stainless steel sheet using a compass.

step 1
Now, using a grinder, cut out a circle according to the markings made.

Step 2
We try on the cut-out damper and, if necessary, modify it with a grinding wheel until it clearly fits into the pipe.

Trying on the damper
Take the prepared stainless steel tube and apply it to the finished circle. Use a marker to measure the size of the flap. We make it smaller than the internal diameter by 3 mm on each side.

Step 4
We cut the pipe with a grinder and a cutting wheel.
We drill an internal hole in the 6.8 mm tube for threading. When drilling, it is necessary to periodically lubricate the inner surface of the tube with machine oil.

Drilling out the tube
We cut an 8mm thread on both sides of the tube with a tap, not forgetting to lubricate the tap in the process. To remove the cutting chips, it is necessary to make a half turn back every half turn of the tap along the thread.

Step 5
Now you need to make three holes in the damper. Immediately use a marker to make marks.
Clamp the tube and the valve in a clamp and weld the tube to the valve through these holes (welded rivets). We start welding from the central hole, then release any one clamp and weld it into the free hole.

Step 6
We mark the future holes on the smoker. To ensure that the axis of the holes clearly coincides, wrap the pipe with a tape measure and measure the center horizontally and vertically. Let's drill. Making the markings
We assemble the damper into a tube. Step 7
Making a template for the damper clamp.

Step 8
We transfer the markings to the metal sheet. You can use a compass.

Step 9
Mark the middle for the fastener holes, cut and drill according to the markings.
We weld it to the pipe.

We weld the clamp

Option 2. Manufacturing a horizontal sliding gate from stainless steel

For this option, you need to purchase a ready-made factory stainless steel gate valve. The design represents a frame within which the mechanism moves.

Lay out 2 rows of the stove or fireplace according to the ordering pattern used.

horizontal sliding gate
On the row where the valve will be installed, we cut grooves in the brick. These are small grooves into which the metal element will fit. It is best to use an angle grinder with a wheel for this work. But if you don’t have such a professional tool, then you can get by with a file.
The damper is installed.
It is necessary to cut a recess in the side brick for the movement of the damper handle, because it will need to be cleaned of soot during operation.

We block the gate with a row of bricks
The next row of bricks is laid and all the resulting gaps are well sealed.

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As you can see, making a gate does not require much time or much experience. At the same time, this is a very important detail that will significantly increase the efficiency of the boiler or fireplace.

Home manufacturing technology

Qualified specialists always emphasize that even a novice craftsman can make a rotary and retractable gate. After all, in order for the finished product to perfectly cope with its main task, you need to correctly take all the necessary measurements

If the finished damper fits tightly into the chimney, then over time it may jam, as it will be exposed to high temperature. And when there is a large gap between the valve and the pipe, it will be difficult to regulate the intensity of the draft during operation.

Multifunctional butterfly valve

To make this type of gate, you need to use a steel angle of 30x30 mm, as well as durable sheet steel, the thickness of which is at least 1.5 millimeters. The manufacturing process itself consists of several main stages, which must be implemented in strict sequence:

Initially, you need to take measurements of the inside of the chimney. This is done in order to avoid mistakes during the manufacture of a frame from a corner, which is fixed with a welding machine.
On one side of the frame, exactly in the center, you need to drill a small hole (7-8 mm in diameter). It will be useful for the rotary axis.
A similar hole must be made on the other side of the frame.
The plate for the damper must be cut from a steel sheet. This part must fully correspond to the internal dimensions of the manufactured frame.
To make a guide axis, you need to take a piece of wire with a diameter of 9 mm and a length that will exceed the size of the frame itself by 7 cm. You need to cut a thread on one side of the wire (a die is best for this task).
The finished axle is carefully threaded into the holes on the frame and secured with a nut.
All cuts on the plate are processed with a grinding machine and inserted into the frame.
At this stage, the master must weld the axle exactly in the center of the plate.
All that remains is to make a comfortable handle for the guide from high-quality scrap materials.

Universal device

Modern gate valves include the valve itself, as well as a special guide frame. That is why, before starting work, the master must measure the internal cross-section of the pipe or brick chimney. In accordance with the available measurements, a neat rectangle is cut out of sheet steel (5 mm thick). A small longitudinal fold is made on one side, the width of which should not exceed 30 mm.

These manipulations are necessary so that the finished damper can be conveniently pulled out. Each cut must be polished, due to which the dimensions of the product are reduced by 2 mm on each side. Such actions by the technician will ensure free movement of the damper inside the chimney.

When the damper is made for a brick fireplace, the frame itself can be made of thick steel wire, the diameter of which is within 6 mm. During this procedure, the metal blank is simply bent into the shape of the letter P in strict accordance with the existing measurements.

If the chimney has a rectangular shape and is made of steel, then it is better to make the frame from a metal strip 2 mm thick and up to 35 mm wide. The prepared strip is bent lengthwise, leaving a neat gap along the thickness of the plate. Only after this can small cuts be made in two places at an angle of 45° to give the workpiece a U-shape. All gaps in the places of cuts must be butt welded.

To connect the ends of a homemade damper, you need to use two pieces of metal, which should be positioned in such a way that the damper blade can pass freely between them. At the end of all these manipulations, the master should come out with a rectangular frame with grooves for the shutter.

To make a valve in a round pipe, you need to take two identical metal sheets 2 mm thick. Round holes are cut in the center in accordance with the diameter of the chimney. The valve plate must be manufactured separately. After this, the sheets are connected to each other using a welding machine.

It is necessary to weld only three sides around the perimeter so that the holes of the finished valve on the pipe match exactly. A gap of 5 mm must be left between the top and bottom sheets. At this point, the damper manufacturing process can be considered complete, since the craftsman can only insert the valve and secure the finished product to the chimney.

Pipe installation

A gate valve can also be installed on a pipe. To do this, select a section of it where there is no insulation, otherwise it simply jams due to expansion as the element heats up. Experts recommend placing it about 1 meter short of the firebox.

The following procedure is suggested:

Fastening the first part to the pipe with coating of the joints with a sealant characterized by heat-resistant properties.
Installation of the gate on this segment or on the tee.
Placement of the second trim for the pipe, which will connect the structure with the insulated sections of the chimney.

Due to the tight fit of all elements of this design, no additional fastenings are required. The installation technique is suitable for rotary and retractable gates. Sometimes a rotation limiter is additionally provided.

Installing a gate valve on a pipe

How does the installation work?

The rotary damper for the chimney is installed as follows. The height of the product is determined by the craftsman based on the actual structure of the furnace. The minimum height is 0.9-1 meters from the floor, and the maximum is approximately 2 meters. As a rule, installation does not take more time and proceeds in several successive stages:

Selecting the installation location and setting marks on the bricks that need to be trimmed.
Cutting bricks using a grinder.
Fixing the chimney partition with masonry mortar.
Brickwork according to a row pattern.

Installing a damper on a chimney

Today, there are two main ways to install a damper on a chimney:

Installation in a fireplace insert. This installation option implies the location of the gate product in close proximity to the heating equipment. As a rule, in this case the distance from the damper to the heating apparatus is 1 meter. This arrangement is very convenient for regulating the valve.
Connection with other elements of the heating system. In this case, there is no need to use additional locking elements, so this option is quite common. This type of installation can also be called “pipe to pipe”.

Helpful information! In addition, it is worth noting that the gate product can also be installed in the ventilation system. A gate valve for ventilation is necessary to prevent the fan motor from overheating. The fan motor may overheat during shutdown.

The above options for using valves for chimneys and ventilation systems are used everywhere. It is worth noting that today you can find a huge variety of stoves and fireplaces, which differ from each other from a constructive point of view. This variety of heating devices also influenced the range of gate valves. Therefore, the choice of a damper for a chimney depends entirely on the characteristics of the heating device and the chimney design in a particular case.

Automation for boiler control

The modernized control system greatly facilitates the use of domestic and industrial boiler equipment.

The main components of the control unit are:

blower fan;
controller;
draft regulator;
circulation pump.

Additionally, they can be equipped with water level sensors, fuel level and consumption sensors, pressure recorders, safety valves, as well as an alarm that is triggered if the temperature level exceeds the permissible installation range (25-50 ⁰C).

Principle of operation

The automation for heating devices works simply and clearly:

controls the blower;
controls the entire volume of air entering the combustion chamber;
ensures optimal combustion mode.

Unlike previous models, in the new improved devices there is no need to constantly open the ash pan door manually and monitor the temperature using a thermometer. For this they have a draft regulator. This is a very convenient energy-dependent device that automatically opens and closes the door in accordance with the temperature of the water contained in the container.

Instead of a standard damper, a fan controlled by a controller is installed. Its task is to supply exactly as much air to the combustion chamber as is necessary for full and safe operation.

The preferred coolant temperature level is adjusted using a controller with a screen and remote control. In order to maintain the temperature in accordance with the climatic conditions of the street, you can install an additional system with remote controllers and outdoor air sensors.

The fuel is ignited using an electric glow element built into the burner.

Advantages and disadvantages of use

A small number of sensors and instruments keep the combustion process of any type of solid fuel under control, maintain the temperature set by the owner and guarantee safety.

The most important useful functions and advantages of using automation include:

rational and economical consumption of solid fuel;
increasing the performance of the heating device;
ensuring safe operation;
no need for independent combustion control;
increasing the interval between scheduled technical checks of the device;
constantly maintaining the temperature in the heating system at the required level;
automatic shutdown of the boiler in case of failure of any of its parts - based on a signal from sensors.

Automated systems also have disadvantages, but they are minimal:

high price, which directly depends on the number of available options;
the need to purchase an uninterruptible power supply due to the energy dependence of the control unit.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any engineering solution, a gate has a number of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros:

Possibility of traction control;
Fuel economy;
Dampers help retain heat.

Minuses:

The devices make it difficult to clean chimneys;
If installed incorrectly, the gate may jam and negatively affect the movement of gases;
To make the correct adjustment, you must have some knowledge in the field of smoke exhaust systems.

How to properly regulate traction?

The correct value is “alpha” - it is in the range of 2.0-2.5 (there is a special formula to calculate this).
Only then does the firewood burn well and the amount of soot produced is minimal. And for this, it’s not superfluous to provide air supply to the combustion zone - if you have such an opportunity. Remember just one thing: if you close the damper, carbon monoxide will still seep into the bathhouse - even if you don’t hear burning or see smoke. It is very dangerous! Within a few hours you can be completely burned out. You can close the damper only at the very end, when everything in the firebox has long burned out and is slightly covered with ash. Take care of yourself!

Visual demonstration of the efficiency of a gate valve (video)

Closed gate:

Open gate:

In most cases, the gate is made of stainless steel with a thickness of no more than 1 mm. This part can withstand temperatures up to 9000C, is resistant to corrosion and has a low coefficient of thermal expansion.

In order to ensure maximum ease of operation of the chimney and good soot removal, the surface of the damper must be polished.

The joints are joined using the rolling method.

A standard damper covers up to 85% of the chimney, which is the optimal indicator for the effective removal of combustion products.

Materials for the manufacture of gates

Basically, valves for stove heating are made from steel . The advantages of this material include:

Good thermal conductivity;
Resistance to high temperatures;
Sufficient strength characteristics;
Resistance to corrosion;
Low coefficient of thermal expansion.

Sometimes gate valves are made from other metals, but, more often than not, they are inferior in their performance characteristics.

For example, cast iron gates are very heavy. Hence the difficulty arises when installing them into ready-made structures. Their scope of application is limited to brick pipes.

Frequent errors and problems during installation

Installation of a valve in an insulated area. Under the influence of thermal expansion, the damper may jam;
Installation of a cast iron part in a metal chimney (cast iron weighs a lot);
Using too thin steel or stainless steel with a low nickel content for the manufacture of valves. Such a product quickly deforms under the influence of hot gases and can burn out;
Installation of a gate with a non-smooth surface;
Installation of a valve without a hole for carbon monoxide release;
Installation of handles that do not allow monitoring the position of the valve (applies to rotary elements).

Size calculation

Even an extra gap of a few millimeters can be the cause of improper operation of the air vent.

Step-by-step steps to resolve the issue are as follows:

First, take a tape measure to measure the size of the internal channel.
20-30 mm is added to the result. The result is the size of the outer frame.
An opening for gas release is required for the finished valve.
The position for the welding holes is also marked as accurately as possible.

Often this design is installed where the fan outlet is located. If you perform a complete installation of the valve and fan, a monolithic structure is formed, which can also be called a starting valve. It serves to prevent the ventilation damper from overheating.

installation of a gate valve

Features of gate maintenance

The gate, made of stainless steel, is usually polished to perfect smoothness. Soot settles on it poorly, but still settles. Therefore, it must be cleaned periodically.

The horizontal valve can be cleaned simply by pulling it out to the maximum and applying a special solution. Rotary - cleaned through the chimney with a special plastic brush. You should also ensure that the damper moves freely along the guides. It is allowed to periodically lubricate them with an anti-corrosion compound.

Principle of operation

When the plate moves inside the device, the channel capacity decreases or increases. The further the damper in the pipe is moved, the sooner the smoke is removed and the combustion of the fuel in the stove accelerates. Completely blocking the hole in the chimney allows the heat to remain in the stove and work to heat the room air throughout the day.

The plate can be completely retracted only in a heated hearth, when substances harmful to human health cease to be released. If the valve is closed too early, there is a risk of suffocation among family members. Sometimes failure to comply with this rule leads to the death of people.

Boiler models are produced with built-in baffles, so installation of a damper is not necessary. Other heating units, furnaces, boilers require the installation of a valve. It is installed in ventilation and exhaust pipes.

Chimney deflector (Photo: Instagram / deflector21)

Main types of dampers

According to manufacturers, a damper is a specific device that is designed to control the draft force in the smoke exhaust system of heating and cooking stoves, as well as in fireplaces for a country house. The popularity of this product is due to the fact that the good combustion of the filled fuel, the removal of the generated smoke, as well as the rate of heating of the room depend on the draft. If the house is heated by a stove, then it is the damper that will provide the fire safety function.

Pull-out model

This type of chimney damper is considered one of the most reliable and powerful in terms of operation. This part consists of a smooth plate on which there is a small longitudinal hole. The movement of the damper occurs thanks to special grooves in the chimney. The installation process occurs only in a horizontal position, the traction force depends on the position of the plate. It is used in brick stoves, as well as in modern chimneys made of steel pipes.

In this video you will learn how to make your own gate:

Cast iron products

The material itself is distinguished by its strength and durability. Most often, this type of gate valve is used for the manufacture of durable furnace valves. The only disadvantage of this product is its heavy weight.

Throttle option

The gate is presented in the form of a durable metal plate, where a special guide piece is welded in the center. Mounted inside the chimney. The end of the guide must be located outside. The traction force can be adjusted by rotating the plate. Among experts, such a product is considered not very reliable, since over time the welding joint weakens, which is why the damper opens slightly in random order. But despite this, a rotary damper is often used in steel chimneys.

There are several variations of the gate

High quality stainless steel gate

The advantage of using this steel is that it is not at all afraid of the negative effects of corrosion, has a long service life, is lightweight and does not affect the efficiency of the furnace. The process of cleaning the chimney is significantly simplified, since soot does not accumulate on the smooth polished surface. In addition, stainless dampers can have absolutely any shape, so they can be installed in both brick and steel chimneys.

Principle of use

In order to reduce the draft, you need to close the damper a little. If, on the contrary, you want to increase traction, you need to open the gate. The principle of use is extremely simple.

The main thing is to choose the right device for your stove and learn how to use it (even though it is very simple). An important nuance is that when the furnace is idle for a long time, you must keep the damper closed to avoid foreign elements getting in there.

The damper also separates the insulated part of the chimney from the non-insulated part. The gate is usually installed at the beginning of the pipe. At the end where the pipes are well insulated, installing a valve is not recommended.

What functions of the damper have we derived?

With its help, traction is adjusted.
It protects the chimney from temperature changes.

How to install a chimney damper

The damper is installed simultaneously with the installation of the heating system. It can be placed in several ways, but the most common is to install a damper on the first meter of the chimney. This placement is quite justified, since in this case the valve is convenient to control. Let's consider this installation method in more detail.

After laying the first row of the brick chimney, you can begin installing the damper. You need to start by cutting out a fragment of the valve. Make a through hole in one of the bricks for the handle and lay out the second row, taking into account the thickness of the layer of sand-cement mixture on which the gate will be placed. Make sure that it fits as tightly as possible to the first one. Eliminate the formation of cracks

Lay subsequent rows on a cement-sand mortar, paying attention to eliminate the risk of cracks forming

Advice! If you are not confident in your abilities and do not know whether you can install the gate yourself, entrust this task to professionals.