Ecodan Flow Sensor

[Refrigerologist]

Hi we have taken delivery of an Ecodan system. This comes with a separate flow sensor, but has no fittings to install it. The connection appears to be 1" BSP but with 'o' rings for connection to a flat faced fittings or valves.

The unit also comes with a Fernox filter, this has similar connections to the flow sensor but is supplied with 2No. 28mm compression to 1" flat faced female connection valves. These would be ideal for installing the flow sensor.

No wholesalers in Guernsey have seen or heard of these valves. Can anyone help with where I can obtain a couple of these? We usually install Altherma, so haven't come across this fitting before.

[frank]

Do you have a picture?

[Refrigerologist]

Hi Frank, I will put up some pictures tomorrow.

I need a 1" flat faced union at both ends of the sensor. Ideally that would be flat faced one end and 28mm compression the other. These valves come with the Fernox FT1 Compact filter pack as standard, but i cannot find them listed anywhe

I believe the fitting is G1 ISO 228

[Refrigerologist]

Hi Guys,

Fittings are I think G1 ISO228 flat face union type. These threads are not used for sealing the pipes. The seal is made by the 'O' rings. The flow sensor is made by Sika, model VVX20.

I cannot find these fittings anywhere on island. Every plumber I have spoken with says, thread tape and paste, but that is definitely not the way I want to go.

The valve is from a Fernox T1 filter. I need a couple of adaptors to go from the flat face union to 28mm, (compression ideally), but solder and/or 22mm may suffice.

Any ideas as to where I can purchase fittings?

1579615797

[frank]

The black fitting looks like it would suit a tap connector with fibre washer https://images.app.goo.gl/oNC4ysy4X2rGKbpZA

[Refrigerologist]

Hi Frank, it is a 1" BSPP thread. I am not sure if tap fitting sizes go to that size. I cannot see anything online.

It being a Mitsubishi Ecodan, you would think there are thousands out there with a similar flow switch. Sika has changed the connections, but with other models they had push on adapters. Wholesalers and plumbers on this island are flummoxed.

I will have to call Mitsi tech to see if they can advise.

[frank]

Here's a good website that states BSPP is the same as G thread http://m.jiayuanfitting.com/info/bspp-vs-bsp-vs-g-vs-pf-thread-difference-38411686.html
G thread is readily available

[frank]

This may be suitable https://www.mepstock.co.uk/variants/pipes-and-fittings/brass-foundry-and-valves/pump-valve-pump-unions

[Refrigerologist]

Thanks Frank,

But I don't think that fitting has a flat face. In the end to keep the job moving I purchased a cheap heating system filter and robbed the valves from that.

Next time I am on the mainland I shall try a couple of wholesalers and see if I can replace those valves. I find it weird that the correct fittings are not widely available.

[Tycho]

one or two :) of these in 1" should do the trick:
https://docs.rs-online.com/a3a4/0900766b80026089.pdf

[Refrigerologist]

Thanks Tycho, I have solved the problem, bought a cheap system filter and robbed the flat faced valves from that. It has kept the job moving.

As for the unions, I thought about it, but by the time I used those, and a 1" adaptor to compressor or solder, plus fitting isolation valves either side, I would have run out of room in the cupboard.

We are replacing a Kinspan unit with the Ecodan, so we are having to adapt the pipework as we go in a very limited space.

On a side note that is 2 filter manufacturers that use these valves, they must be available somewhere.