Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol Air Separators are centrifugal-style air separators for HVAC systems. Their 3-to-1 body diameter to nozzle diameter ratio slows fluid velocity to remove entrained air from system solution, while its tangential inlet and outlet nozzles induce centrifugal fluid flow. This centrifugal flow creates a low-pressure vortex in the center of the tank where entrained air can come out of the solution and float to the top. Once there, it is removed via an air vent or connection to an expansion tank.
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Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol Air Separator Features
Tangential Flow Through Design
B&G Rolairtrol air separators provide maximum air separation efficiency due to a combination of centrifugal force and velocity reduction. The Rolairtrol’s tangential design creates a whirlpool inside the vessel. This vortex action sends heavier, air-free water to the outer portion of the vessel shell while forcing the separated air into the center, where it is drawn to the air collector tube. This tangential design provides greater air separation efficiency when compared to less effective, straight-flow air separators.
Vessel Shell 3 Times the Nominal Inlet/Outlet Pipe Diameter
The Rolairtrol air separators’ vessel shell is at least three times the inlet and outlet pipe diameter, assuring maximum velocity reduction to develop the highest possible air separation efficiency.
Stainless Steel Air Collector Tube
A stainless steel air collector tube gathers and centralizes the separated air efficiently. The separated air is easily directed upwards through the tube, vented in air elimination systems, or returned to the compression tank in air control systems.
Baffle
The baffle is a barrier between the air-free water and the separated air. It assures that only air-free water is transferred to the outlet connection while separated air is directed to the collector tube.
Vertical Strainer with Bottom Access
Unlike the upper, horizontal strainer location in competitive air separators, the Rolairtrol’s lower, vertical strainer does not interfere with the vortex action necessary for proper air removal, maximizing efficiency. In addition, the Rolairtrol’s strainer is accessible from the bottom of the unit, reducing floor space while simplifying maintenance and clean out of accumulated system debris.
NPT, Grooved & Flanged Connections
Three connection options offer installation flexibility. 2"-3" models are NPT, 3"-12" models are grooved or flanged, and 14"-36" models are flanged.
Up to 36" Pipe Size Connections
Models up to 36" in pipe diameter will meet the air separation requirements in the largest HVAC systems.
Optional B&G Manual Blowdown Valve
A 1" NPTF manual blowdown valve is available to simplify installation, general maintenance, and remove start-up debris.
Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol Air Separators Brochure
Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol Air Separator Installation
Rolairtrol sizes through R-8 (or RL-8) can be supported in the piping system as long as pipe hangers are attached to the tangential nozzles as close to the Rolairtrol shell as possible. Sizes larger than R-8 (or RL-8) will need additional supports, such as a cradle under the Rolairtrol acting on diameter as close to the Rolairtrol outside diameter as possible or factory-installed support brackets.
Model R Rolairtrol Air Separators have strainers that must be removed and cleaned after 24 hours of operation, 30 days of operation, and as required to maintain proper system air separation. Before installing a model R Rolairtrol, refer to the Instruction Manual for minimum distances between the blowdown connection or end of the pipe plug and the floor or other equipment for strainer removal.
A manual blowdown valve (MBV-1) can be added to the blowdown connection on Rolairtrol air separators. The function of the MBV-1 is to facilitate the purging of sediment from the vessel. A manual blowdown valve (MBV-1) can also be added to tanks on sized 3" through 12" R models by removing the 3" pipe plug and replacing it with the appropriately sized reducer.
Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol Air Separators Instruction Manual
Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol Air Separator Parts
Replacement parts for Rolairtrol air separators are available from Bell & Gossett and include strainers, screens, and flange gaskets.
Bell & Gossett Rolairtrol & Sediment Removal Separators Replacement Parts
Other Bell & Gossett Air Separators
Effective air management achieves maximum performance efficiency in heating and cooling hydronic systems. Bell & Gossett air separators are designed to make your system more energy efficient, trouble-free, and long-lasting.
Read more about Bell & Gossett Air Separators in the full Bell & Gossett Air Separators: Protect Your System Against Damage blog post.