If you’ve ever used a public restroom, chances are you’ve encountered a Sloan flush valve.
These innovative devices use water pressure to create a powerful flush, without the need for a raised tank.
But how exactly do they work?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the inner workings of a Sloan flush valve, from the diaphragm technology to the control stop mechanism.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn about one of the unsung heroes of modern plumbing.
How Does A Sloan Flush Valve Work
Sloan flush valves use a unique system that relies on water pressure from the main supply to create a powerful flush. Unlike traditional toilets that use gravity from a raised tank, Sloan flush valves use a diaphragm to separate the pressure chamber from the main water supply.
A narrow passageway leads from the main water supply into the pressure chamber, which meters the flow by slowing down the repressurizing of the pressure chamber after a flush. This diaphragm technology allows the flush valve to open and let water into the bowl.
The main cylinder valve operates up and down, with a groove in the cylinder allowing water from the main supply to flow through when it’s in a mid-position. The valve is shut off at both its top and bottom positions. A second valve, placed within the main cylinder valve, releases the water in the topmost pressure chamber when the flush lever is activated, sending the main cylinder valve shooting upwards.
The topmost pressure chamber slowly refills through its narrow passageway, pushing the valve cylinder back down gradually. A flush occurs while it’s in its open mid-position. Because the water is gradually shut off, slower water at the end of the cycle that will not activate the siphon serves to refill the bowl.
The valve cannot be kept open by holding the flush lever in the activated position, wasting water, because this only sends the main cylinder valve all the way up to its topmost shutoff position. A flush can only occur when the valve is in one of its mid-positions.
What Is A Sloan Flush Valve?
A Sloan flush valve is a type of flush valve that uses water pressure from the main water supply system to create a powerful flush. It is different from traditional toilets that use gravity from a raised tank to flush. The Sloan flush valve uses a diaphragm to separate the pressure chamber from the main water supply, which allows the valve to open and let water into the bowl. The valve operates up and down, with a groove in the cylinder allowing water to flow through when it’s in a mid-position. The topmost pressure chamber slowly refills through its narrow passageway, pushing the valve cylinder back down gradually. A flush occurs while it’s in its open mid-position. The Sloan flush valve also has a control stop that functions like a check valve, preventing backflow of water. Overall, the Sloan flush valve is a unique and efficient system that provides a powerful flush while conserving water.
The Diaphragm Technology: How It Works
The diaphragm technology used in Sloan flush valves is a crucial component that separates the pressure chamber from the main water supply. The diaphragm acts as a barrier, allowing water to flow into the pressure chamber at a controlled rate, which then delivers a powerful flush when the valve is activated.
When the flush lever is pulled, a second valve within the main cylinder valve releases water from the topmost pressure chamber. This sudden release of water sends the main cylinder valve shooting upwards, which then allows water to flow into the bowl.
As the topmost pressure chamber slowly refills through its narrow passageway, it gradually pushes the valve cylinder back down. This gradual process ensures that the water is shut off slowly, allowing slower water to refill the bowl at the end of the cycle without activating the siphon.
The diaphragm technology used in Sloan flush valves ensures that only a controlled amount of water is released during each flush. This not only saves water but also prevents wastage by ensuring that the valve cannot be kept open by holding the flush lever in an activated position.
Control Stop Mechanism: Maintaining Water Flow
The control stop mechanism is an essential component of Sloan flush valves that helps maintain water flow. It is responsible for regulating the water supply to the valve, ensuring that the valve operates correctly and efficiently.
The control stop mechanism consists of a valve and a diaphragm that work together to control the flow of water. The valve is connected to the water supply and regulates the amount of water that flows into the diaphragm. The diaphragm, in turn, controls the flow of water into the pressure chamber of the flush valve.
To maintain water flow, it is important to regularly inspect and clean the control stop mechanism. Over time, debris and sediment can build up in the valve and diaphragm, causing them to malfunction. This can result in reduced water flow or even complete blockage.
To clean the control stop mechanism, turn off the water supply and remove the valve from the diaphragm. Clean both components thoroughly with a soft brush and mild detergent. Rinse with clean water and reassemble the mechanism.
Regular maintenance of your Sloan flush valve’s control stop mechanism can help ensure optimal performance and prevent costly repairs down the line. By keeping this critical component clean and functioning properly, you can maintain consistent water flow and keep your restroom facilities operating smoothly.
Advantages Of Sloan Flush Valves Over Traditional Toilets
Sloan flush valves offer several advantages over traditional toilets. Firstly, they do not require a raised water tank, which eliminates the need for gravity to power the flush. This means that Sloan flush valves can be installed in a wider variety of spaces, including those with limited ceiling height.
Secondly, Sloan flush valves are designed to be more water-efficient than traditional toilets. The diaphragm technology used in the valve allows for precise metering of water flow, ensuring that only the necessary amount of water is used for each flush. This can result in significant water savings over time, especially in commercial or institutional settings where toilets are used frequently.
Another advantage of Sloan flush valves is their durability. Made from high-quality metal components, these valves are designed to last for many years without requiring frequent maintenance or replacement. This can save money on repair and replacement costs over time.
Finally, Sloan flush valves offer improved hygiene compared to traditional toilets. The automatic flushing system ensures that the bowl is cleaned after each use, reducing the risk of bacterial growth and unpleasant odors. In addition, the infrared passive sensors used in some models ensure that the flushing system is only activated when someone is using the urinal, further reducing water waste and improving overall hygiene.