What is a crane axle box, what types does it come in, how to choose the right one and change it yourself?

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The faucet axle is an important internal part of a two-handle mixer. Thanks to the operation of this element, water supply, shutoff and pressure adjustment are ensured. The part has a certain service life, after which it can be replaced independently. Crane axleboxes come in several types depending on the material and size. What should be considered when choosing a product and how to replace it is outlined in this article.

Thanks to the faucet box, water is supplied and pressure is adjusted

Purpose and scope

The main purpose of a two-handle mixer is to mix two water flows, namely cold and hot water, into a single stream. Accordingly, in addition to opening and shutting off the water flow, the axle box valve is assigned additional functions:

• pressure adjustment;
• setting the desired temperature.

The functionality of the device also determines the scope of its application, which means that the valve head is used in faucets installed on washbasins and bathtubs, in showers and bidet systems.

Construction of ceramic valve heads for mixers

As the name suggests, the ceramic faucet axle has ceramic parts in its design. Only discs or inserts are made of this material that block the flow of water or open the supply. They have the following disadvantages:

1. Demanding on water quality . If its composition is unsuitable, it can fail faster than a worm axle box. Breakage is possible, for example, if there is sand or other impurities in the water. To prevent this and improve the quality of the water, you can additionally install a special filter to purify it.
2. They cost a little more than worm ones.

However, despite the existing disadvantages, the ceramic axle box crane is still a new generation product. This suggests that it also has advantages:

• under suitable conditions, it will last longer than a worm gear, that is, it is characterized by increased reliability;
• works without noise;
• To open or shut off the water supply, you do not need to make any effort; half a turn is enough, unlike a worm.

Characteristics

In view of the specifics of use, certain requirements are imposed on the axle-box crane in terms of compliance with technical standards (GOST 25809-96):

1. Tightness of the circuit.
2. Wear resistance of the materials from which it is made.
3. Capacity determined by the diameter of the transport channel.
4. Resistance of elements to high temperatures of the transported medium (up to 75⁰) and temperature changes.
5. Ability to withstand internal system pressure (up to 1.0 MPa).

The angle of rotation of the turning mechanism is also important. The optimal indicator is an angle of 180⁰, which minimizes the degree of wear of the mechanism.

Self-replacement of the crane axle box

Required Tools

To repair or replace the crane axlebox yourself, first of all, you need to have the required tools :

• flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
• pipe adjustable wrenches and wrenches;
• electric drill with a slotted attachment;
• pliers
• and, of course, a new crane axle box or a new part instead of a broken element.

Stages of replacing a crane axle box

Repairing or replacing the faucet axlebox must begin by turning off the water supply system. Then we need to decide what we will need to dismantle. The next step is to start removing the flywheel. To do this, unscrew the plastic cap with a screwdriver, unscrew the fixing screw and remove the flywheel, thereby opening access to the valve axle and rod .
To remove the crane axle box, we will need a key, the size of which is 17 mm. Ceramic taps sometimes have lock nuts that can be loosened with an adjustable wrench. Using a 7 mm wrench, unscrew the valve axle box counterclockwise to make it square. It is necessary to take into account the fact that over time the bolts rust, sour, and it is impossible to unscrew the screw on the faucet handle, since the slots for the screwdriver are not visible. If this happens, you need to take and drill out the screw head with a drill, after which the axle box can be easily removed. But there are cases where the old axlebox is deeply damaged by rust and it is impossible to unscrew it. Then the threads should be lubricated with rust solvents and after 15 minutes the valve box can be removed. After unscrewing the valve axlebox, the threads, as well as the flywheel, must be cleaned of rust with a special brush so that the axlebox fits tightly to the threads. A new or repaired axlebox should be tightened in such a way that it is not overtightened, and also slightly undertightened, since when opening the flywheel it can get unscrewed. Turn on the water and check if the faucet is leaking.

Repairing a crane axle box is very easy. However, despite the simplicity of such repairs, the very fact of a breakdown is unpleasant for the owner of the plumbing system. To avoid having to repair such parts too often, you should be very careful when purchasing a mixer , choosing the highest quality devices for yourself in the store. Buying good equipment guarantees its long-term and reliable service. Therefore, choose a product very carefully, be sure to check its performance before purchasing.

Crane device

In general, the design of the axle box valve comes down to the following:

• metal body (bolt), equipped with mounting threads and rubber seals;
• transition pipe (fitting), fixed in the bolt;
• a rotary mechanism (rod), the structure of which varies depending on the modification of the valve head;
• a quick-release washer that fixes the position of the axle box valve in the mixer.

Some models are equipped with a fat chamber to ensure smooth operation and increase production life (see photo for diagram).

What is the significance of the faucet-axle mixer (GOST 2589-96)

You should immediately understand what a crane axle box is. This element belongs to the class of shut-off valves. The design is made of steel or brass and consists of a body, which is equipped with mounting threads and rubber seals, a rotating rod and a fitting fixed in the body.

According to GOST, the standard sizes of faucet axle boxes for domestic mixers are 1/2 and 3/8 inches

The part also includes seals, which ensure the tightness of the device, and a quick-release washer that fixes the position of the element in the mixer. To ensure smooth operation and increase production life, some models are additionally equipped with a fat chamber.

The internal element of the valve head, depending on the movement of the valve or mixer lever, changes its position. In form, it can resemble a flat plate, a metal sphere, or a worm element with rubber seals.

The faucet is installed inside the mixer, which is designed for mixing cold and hot flows. The product is used to supply and shut off water, adjust the required pressure and required flow temperature. This vertical head is designed for faucets that are installed on washbasins, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and bidet systems.

The faucet box for the mixer must be made of a wear-resistant material that is resistant to water and mechanical impurities and can easily withstand temperature changes and the high temperature of the transported liquid. It must ensure the tightness of the circuit, withstanding pressure up to 1 MPa, and have an established throughput capacity, determined by the diameter of the channel.

The crane box must be made of heat-resistant material

Important! Vertical heads, in which the rotation angle is 180 degrees, are characterized by a minimal degree of wear of the mechanism.

The faucet box for the domestic mixer has standard sizes of 1/2 and 3/8 inches, established by GOST. For imported devices, splines 20 and 40 are used.

The principle of operation of the crane axlebox is that when the flywheel is acted upon, the shutter, which is located in the rotary rod, begins to move. It begins to rotate around its axis perpendicularly or parallel to the water flow. At the same time, the shutter provides access to water, regulates the intensity of its flow and blocks its movement.

Differences between a faucet and a valve

The difference between a faucet and a valve lies in the principle of operation of the valve:

• in a valve, the shut-off element is located mainly outside the transport line and moves perpendicular to the transported flow;
• The valve in the faucet is located inside the stem, and its movement in relation to the fluid flow can be perpendicular, parallel or slightly inclined.

This difference also determines the operational characteristics of the devices:

• scope of application;
• wear rate.

With intensive use, the valve wears out faster, so it is used mainly for closing or opening and extremely rarely for adjusting the flow rate in industrial pipelines.

The design of the faucet allows it to wear out more slowly even with extremely intensive use, which is why they are suitable for household faucets.

The procedure for performing work when replacing and repairing valves

When replacing, the instructions for performing the work will look like this:

• First you need to stop the water supply and begin dismantling the old device. The first step is to remove the cap from the flywheel;
• underneath you will find a bolt, unscrewing which you can remove the valve;
• after this, you can use a key to unscrew the axle box itself from the seat;

Dismantling the crane axle

• After inspecting the threads and removing debris, you can begin installing a new faucet axle box. The work is carried out in the reverse order - first the axle box itself is screwed in, then it is the turn of the decorative cap and valve.

Note! When choosing a new crane axle box, it is extremely important to choose the right size. It’s definitely not worth making a choice by eye; as a result, you can get, for example, a crane axle with a seat diameter of 3/8 inches, whereas you needed a crane axle 1 2 inches.

The flywheel is installed only if it matches the number of splines on the fitting. It is clear that an 18-spline axlebox valve and a flywheel with a square hole section are simply incompatible.

As for repairs, in the case of worm-gear devices, it usually involves replacing the locking gasket. In this case, all you need to do is dismantle the valve housing and replace the old gasket with a purchased new one. If you wish, you can even cut it out yourself from fairly dense and thick rubber.

The gasket replacement process is schematically shown

It is much worse if the bottom of the seat itself is damaged; as a result, even with a proper gasket, the valve box will leak a little. In this case, the entire tap will need to be replaced; installing a thicker gasket can be considered as a temporary measure.

As for ceramic faucets, most likely, if problems with tightness arise, only its complete replacement will help. But sometimes the cause of a leak lies in the abrasion of the ring, through which the plates are pressed tightly against each other.

The place where the worn out gasket was located is shown.

In this case, repairs are possible with your own hands; to do this, you just need to cut out a new ring of approximately the same thickness (there is no need for exact dimensions) and place it instead of the old one on the rod. This is where the possibilities for repairing ceramic crane axle boxes are exhausted.

Rod with new gasket

Types and designs

To accurately select axle boxes, you need to know what they are.

Depending on the design of the rod, crane axle boxes are divided into:

• worm (rubber).

The valve seat is closed by means of a rubberized cuff that is progressively extended by a rod. According to the method of movement of the rod, they are divided into 2 types: reverse-threaded and equipped with special guides.

A distinctive feature is the need to make several full turns of the tap to completely open or close it. Most often used in valve-type mixers.

• ceramic (disc).

The internal locking element is made of two highly polished metal-ceramic discs (plates) with holes (static and rotary), the alignment or separation of which ensures the operation of the mixer.

• ball

The role of the locking mechanism is performed by a carefully polished metal ball with a through technical hole inside.

Crane boxes also differ in the standard size of the landing part, which can be:

1. ½ inch;
2. 3/8 inch;
3. ¾ inch;
4. M18×1.

Valve heads are also classified according to the following criteria:

• manufacturer (domestic or imported);
• rotation angle (full and half turn);
• temperature of the working environment (for cold or hot water);
• the shape of the head (slotted or square), through which the valve is attached to the handwheel (valve or handle)
• number of splines (protrusions, sprockets) on the rod for installation on the flywheel: 20, 24, etc.

Ceramic crane axle box: design and characteristic features of the head

The ceramic faucet housing has been developed as a modern alternative to the rubber valve head, which is superior in reliability, wear resistance and durability.

The device is characterized by simplicity of design. It is made of ceramics and brass. This valve head is represented by two ceramic disks, in which holes of the same shape are made. One insert is fixed on the rod, and the second is stationary. When changing the rotary disk, the size of the flow area of ​​the faucet changes, as a result of which the water flow is regulated. The device is installed in the mixer using standard seals and washers.

The liquid flows exclusively through the channels designed for this purpose, which is achieved due to the good seal of the ceramic circles. To open or close the tap, turn the flywheel half a turn in one direction or the other, respectively. As a result, it is possible to completely open, partially combine or block the channels. Such small manipulations with the valve provide high speed control of the device, but the accuracy of pressure adjustment suffers.

The advantages of this type of valve head include its quiet operation, a long period of operation, which is 5-10 years, and the absence of effort to turn on and off the flow of water. The rotation angle reaches 90-180 degrees.

Ceramic crane axle boxes are durable and quiet in operation

Among the disadvantages of ceramic heads, one can highlight the high price of the crane axle box, averaging 300-350 rubles. The mechanism is highly sensitive to the quality of passing water. If it contains quite a lot of mechanical impurities in the form of sand particles, clay sediments, rust and other suspensions, this will quickly lead to jamming of the mechanism, which is especially important for a 1/2" crane axle box." Ceramics are resistant to chemical compounds. However, if the mixer core fails, the internal elements are unsuitable for repair.

Helpful advice! To protect the ceramic faucet from damage and extend its service life, it is recommended to install a filter for coarse water purification at the entrance of centralized water supply pipelines to the apartment.

Advantages and disadvantages

We propose to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each valve head model in a comparative table:

Design and distinctive features of a worm-mounted crane axlebox

Worm (rubber) valve heads are equipped with rods that extend when the handle is turned. They create pressure on the threaded gear, which drives the rod itself with a rubber gasket.

The gasket, which is located in the device, opens and closes the valve seat, regulating the water supply. At the moment the flow is blocked, a tight connection between the valve disc and the special inner seat is achieved. This gasket can be made of any type of rubber, which affects its service life. This worm-type valve is an old-style valve head design.

Important! The worm-type valve axlebox provides the most precise adjustment of the pressure, since when the flywheel rotates, the rod moves very slowly.

The outer part of the body has a thread, which facilitates the joining of the element with the mixer. For ease of replacement, the designs are equipped with special niches for a wrench. The inner core may be threaded or fitted with guides for a sliding type check valve.

The most precise water adjustment is ensured using a worm-type valve axle.

Important! If a hum appears in the pipes when the water is turned on, this indicates wear of the gasket.

Among the advantages of this type of faucet axle box are the low cost, which starts from 100 rubles, widespread availability, ease of replacing the element, which implies complete shutoff of water, and the ability to make such a gasket yourself from suitable rubber.

The main disadvantage of this type is the short period of operation of the device, which is no more than 5 years. The mechanism also exhibits increased sensitivity to water quality. Various metal and salt impurities accelerate wear of the rubber seal.

A distinctive feature of this type of tap valve is the need to make several full turns of the tap to completely open or close the section. This friction frequency also negatively affects the wear period of the device. As a result, each time the valve will have to be tightened more tightly to ensure that the flow of water completely stops.

The worm gear valve is easy to replace and is not expensive.

Life time

The average period of operation of axle box cranes depends on the modification of the device:

• Worm drives last an average of 1.5 – 5 years;
• ball - from 3 to 5 years;
• ceramic – from 5 years or more.

However, the composition of water has a significant impact on the lifespan of products. The presence of certain impurities can significantly shorten the service life, whereas in clean water the device can work properly for decades. In this regard, experts recommend installing fine filters.

The intensity of use of the mixer is also important. Thus, screw heads installed in the bathroom wear out less than those installed in the kitchen.

The first sign of wear is not a leaking faucet at all, but the appearance of a characteristic rattling hum as a consequence of the occurrence of resonance in the valve.

Which is better: ceramics or rubber

It is not difficult to compare rubber and ceramic faucet axle boxes because they have different water supply designs. The first is based on a rubber gasket, which is pressed against the mixer seat, and therefore the cleanliness of the surface of the seat is the main quality indicator of a plumbing fixture. If the cleanliness is not of high quality, then the mixer will begin to leak faster. And even installing a new gasket will not completely solve the problem. There is only one way out - to completely replace the mixer or carry out the difficult work of cleaning the seat using a cutter.

In ceramic axle boxes, discs most often fail. Although, if we compare their long-term work with a rubber gasket, then it is almost ten times more effective in time. And if the tires have to be changed once every two years, then the discs, if the water in the water supply network is clean, will last the entire period along with the mixer. These types of parts are new, they have appeared relatively recently, so they are guaranteed to last longer than rubber gaskets. In addition, working at half a revolution reduces the abrasion time of the ceramics.

Both versions of crane axleboxes still work, each with its own pros and cons. Therefore, when purchasing one of them, it is necessary to take into account the operating criteria and technical characteristics of the plumbing part.

Tips for choosing

When choosing a suitable axlebox crane model, a number of aspects are taken into account:

1. seat size;
2. type and pitch of threaded connection;
3. rod length and configuration;
4. number of splines (for imported models).

Russian and imported models are not always interchangeable. Replacing a Russian axle box valve with a foreign one is only possible in conjunction with the flywheel.

Replacing one modification with another (for example, a worm gear with a ceramic one) is possible if the overall dimensions completely match and correspond to the mixer.

Do not forget about the operating conditions of the future product: the composition of the water, the intensity of work.

To avoid mistakes in choosing the right part, experts recommend contacting a specialized store with the old part. Based on this, the consultant will select the desired model.

teplomex.ru

The faucet housing for mixers is an inconspicuous part that most often causes plumbing breakdowns, which causes unpleasant noise, difficulty in using the faucet, and leakage. This element of the mixer is designed to regulate the flow of water. It is this part that bears the main load during daily use of the crane, which is why the axle box can break.

Restoration work is carried out in the shortest possible time, both independently and with the assistance of specialists. Only with the proper selection of plumbing parts and high-quality repairs is it possible not only to get rid of the breakdown, but also to extend the life of the plumbing equipment as a whole.

Types of crane axle boxes

Today on the modern market of plumbing products there are two types of axle boxes of domestic and imported production, namely:

- ceramic; - worm-type.

Faucet axle for mixer - photo
Each type has its own characteristics, differs in operating principles and has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Let's take a closer look at each type. Features of the worm gear valve: square and slot

The part got its name because of the rotating rod, which, when moving, clamps the rubber gasket and shuts off the water supply. On the body you can see a thread that allows you to tightly mount the part in the design of the kitchen and bathroom faucet. The faucet box for the mixer is divided into two subtypes:

— with guides for the shut-off valve; - with thread return to the shaft.

On the outside, it has both a square and a splined head on which the flywheel is mounted. For reliable fastening of the valve bolt, an internal thread is formed in the head. To make it easier to tighten the part with a wrench, there are special edges.

An axle box with a worm mechanism was used back in Soviet times and today is also considered a widespread part for mixers.

Construction of a worm-type faucet for a shower mixer
Advantages of a worm-type axle :
- average cost of rubber gaskets, which wear out over time; — it is possible to make a rubber gasket for the part yourself; — such axle box is considered widespread; - no complex and lengthy repairs are required.

Disadvantages of worm axle boxes:

— during operation, the axle box can contribute to noise; — over time, the smoothness of adjustment is significantly lost; - to completely shut off the flow of water, make several turns with the tap; — the actual service life of the rubber gasket is not long; — it’s easy to buy a faucet axle box for a mixer, since the part itself and its elements are widespread.

Crane axle box with ceramic elements

This part of the mixer has two ceramic plates of the same external and internal diameter. One of them is mounted on the rod where the handle is mounted, and the second is in the body of the axle-box crane.

The principle of operation is that when you turn the faucet handle, both elements are compressed, thereby blocking the flow of water and vice versa. Repairing such a part will be much more difficult, since you will need to find similar ceramic plates. It will not be possible to use plates of a different diameter and height.

The only reason for axlebox failure may be sand accumulated from the water, which leads to jamming of the mechanism.

Ceramic faucet axle structure
1 - rubber gasket;
2 - ceramic plates with holes for water passage; 3 - rotary rod rotating ceramic plates; 4 — crane axle housing; 5 — decorative cap; 6 - flywheel; 7 — decorative plug. Advantages of ceramic faucet axle for mixer :

- long period of actual use; — the smooth movement of the crane lever is significantly improved; — minimal noise level during use; — it is necessary to make only half a revolution to open/close the water flow.

Negative aspects of operation:

— the cost is much higher compared to a worm-type axlebox; - installed only if there is a cleaning system or water filter, and otherwise the service life is significantly reduced due to contamination of the mechanism.

Rules for selecting a faucet axle box for a mixer: dimensions

In order for the crane to work properly for a long period of time, you should correctly select one of the main parts - the crane axle box. It is imperative to understand what size part will fit best. Today it is offered to purchase axlebox sizes of 1/2 and 3/8 inches.

Differences between crane axle boxes: slotted, square, dimensions
Before purchasing, you should pay attention to the company that produces such parts.
This can be explained by the fact that a “square” ceramic and worm type faucet can only be effective with domestic mixers, and the detail that there are 20-24 slots on the top of the rod are suitable for mixers from imported manufacturing companies. Before buying a particular axle box, you need to measure the length of the rod and the crane structure itself. To prevent errors in calculations, you can take an old valve and a failed faucet axle box to a plumbing store as a sample. This is explained by the fact that both the tap and the valve itself can be made to different standards, that is, the flywheel and bolt can have different thread pitches.

Note! When purchasing a faucet for a bath or kitchen, it is recommended to determine in advance which faucet is built into the plumbing. You can verify this yourself by turning the flywheel. In ceramic designs, the valve will turn half a turn, and in a rubber type - 3-4 turns.

It is important to pay attention to the quality of water. If a cleaning system is built into the water supply, then you can opt for ceramic faucet axle boxes, which are considered sensitive to various types of contaminants. In another situation, when there are no filter units, it is recommended to install parts with rubber gaskets.

Before buying plumbing spare parts, you should weigh the pros and cons in advance, choosing the most optimal option.

Replacing the faucet axle box in the mixer

If such an element of the plumbing system is worn out, it is necessary to replace it. Even a person who does not have special skills in working with plumbing can disassemble the faucet and install a new part. By following the instructions in the instructions and following the steps step by step, you can quickly and painlessly replace a failed faucet.

Note! Before carrying out any repair work, you should turn off the water supply to prevent flooding of the room. Let's consider the plan for replacing the axle box.

Replacing the faucet box with your own hands
Initially, you should remove the top cap of the faucet from the flywheel. If the plumbing fixtures have been used for a long period of time, then this will not be so easy. In this case, you can use pliers. After the cap is removed, a bolt will be visible under it, which, when unscrewed, allows you to remove the tap valve. Over time, the metal may oxidize and removing the valve may also require effort.

Important! After removing the faucet parts, you should thoroughly clean them from any dirt and salt deposits that have accumulated on them.

It is also necessary to dismantle the faucet fittings. If it is tightly attached to the base, it is allowed to use a tool, but a thick cloth must be placed. This will avoid damaging the surface of the chrome/brushed metal.

After removing the fittings, you will have access to the axle box, which needs to be unscrewed. The threads should be thoroughly cleaned, which will allow all elements to be easily and firmly installed during assembly.

A new crane axle box should be installed in place of the old part, and you should make sure in advance that it fits in size. GROHE and VIDIMA sanitary fittings are used , it is recommended to wrap several layers of foam around the threads to seal the connection.

Assembly of the entire structure is carried out in the reverse order. Do not apply maximum force when clamping parts, otherwise they may burst. To create a tight installation, a lock nut can be used. The water supply is turned on only after the entire faucet structure has been assembled.

If we talk about spare parts with ceramic plates, their repair is most often an impractical undertaking, because in this situation it would be easiest to replace the entire structure. Replacing rubber gaskets is much faster and easier, but when purchasing consumables you should give preference to high-quality and durable rubber. The service life of the structure will depend on it. Let's watch the video. replace the faucet axle box for mixers either independently or by calling an expert to your home. Timely repairs will ensure uninterrupted operation of the drainage system, eliminate unpleasant sounds and ensure normal water supply at the right time.

approximate price

Models of crane axleboxes differ little from each other in price; the difference often does not exceed about 50 rubles. Key price differences are based on country of manufacture:

• the cheapest valve heads are made in China. On average, their cost ranges from 70 to 1,000 rubles;
• Russian ones cost about 200 – 1,500 rubles.
• European brands - from 450 to 2,500 rubles.

This variation in cost is due to the design features and materials used in the manufacture of products. These differences determine the functionality and durability of the unit, so when choosing the appropriate model, price should not play the role of a determining factor.

Prices for faucet axles for mixers on the Russian market

Prices on Russian shelves for such products vary - it all depends on the manufacturer. The most popular are faucet axle boxes for Vidima mixers. But cheap Chinese products do not lose demand either. Let's look at several options with some characteristics and costs, as of April 2018.

These are products in a low price range. If we take the German one, then the cost of fittings of this brand reaches 4000 rubles.

Rules for installation and operation of the crane

The procedure for replacing and repairing the axle box valve is not difficult, and therefore this work can be done independently, without turning to specialists.

Required tools and materials

• Adjustable (Swedish) wrench.
• Pipe (gas) wrench.
• Screwdrivers (phillips and flathead).
• Pliers.
• Knife.
• Thick rubber.
• Rags.

Work progress

1. Blocking the pipe through which water is supplied.
2. Remove the decorative cap installed in the center of the valve.
3. Unscrewing the mounting screw with a screwdriver.
4. Dismantling the valve by performing gentle rocking movements.
5. Unscrewing the decorative washer using pliers. Placing a piece of fabric or rubber underneath will prevent the pad from being scratched.
6. Unscrewing the axle box from the seat using a key at the top with special notches. Unscrewing is done counterclockwise.
7. Cleaning the inside of the faucet.
8. Lubricating threaded connections with a special oil composition (if necessary, sealant).
9. Screwing in the new axle box is performed in the reverse order according to paragraphs 6-1.
10. Upon completion of installation, the water flow is restored, and the tap is checked for leaks.

To change the direction of movement of the axlebox when opening, a locking screw is unscrewed in it, which is then screwed in from the reverse side.

How to repair a ceramic type crane axle box

There may be sand or other mechanical impurities between the ceramic discs of the faucet axle, which will cause a leak in the joint surfaces, as a result of which the plumbing element will leak. This problem can be eliminated after dismantling the axle box and disassembling the head. Each plate is thoroughly cleaned and lubricated with a waterproof compound. After repairing the ceramic valve axle, the unit is put back together.

Important! When disassembling a ceramic axlebox, it is important not to confuse the bottom and top of the disks, as this will lead to incorrect operation of the device.

If small scratches and cracks are found on the discs, they can be removed by grinding the base. Repair of the crane axlebox is carried out using fine abrasive powder with a grain size of 1200, which consists of silicon carbide and aluminum oxide. The powder should be poured onto any glass before starting the procedure. Machine oil can be used as a solvent. Next, the damaged plate is taken, applied to the glass and rubbed against it in a circular motion. After all scratches have disappeared, the disc is washed under running water.

Between the ceramic discs there is a pressure washer, which can be fluoroplastic, nylon or propylene. The part is subjected to constant load, which leads to its wear. Reducing its thickness reduces the tightness of the nodes. A gap is formed where water seeps in.

The main advantage of ceramic models is the possibility of repair

The part can be replaced with a new one. To do this, the valve axlebox is completely disassembled, the rod, retaining ring and plastic washer are pulled out. After installing the new washer, the discs should be cleaned and lubricated. If you cannot find a part that fits the size, you can increase its thickness by gluing a layer of electrical tape on it or by placing a thin circle of polyethylene under it.

If the body, stem valve is worn out, the threads are damaged, or there are significant scratches on the disks, it is impossible to repair the valve stem with your own hands. The head must be replaced with a new element.

Frequent errors and problems during installation

1. When screwing in, the axle box must not be overtightened, as this will lead to the formation of leaks. It just screws in all the way.
2. During dismantling, you may encounter the problem of the axle box sticking to the body due to its oxidation or rust. The following techniques are used to solve the problem:
   Treating the body with vinegar, special chemicals or oxygen-containing agents.
3. Heating the body with a hair dryer.
4. Slight loosening of the axle box. Overdoing it can lead to damage to the faucet and faucet.
5. Drilling out the valve head is a last resort method, because... Subsequently, cutting of a new threaded connection will be required.

Summarize

Sooner or later, everyone is faced with the need to replace shut-off valves on faucets in their apartment. So, is it worth paying specialists for work if it’s easy to do it yourself? And it’s not a fact that an invited professional will replace the faucet axle on the mixer better than the home master himself. After all, you always do things for yourself “with your soul.” The only thing I would like to remind you in conclusion. Do not rush to purchase fittings without disassembling and inspecting the one currently in place. This will help you save money, which is important these days.

The mixer must always be in good condition

We hope that the information presented today was useful to our readers. If you have any questions while reading the article, you can ask them in the discussions below. The Seti.guru editorial team will definitely answer them. There you can also share your experience in installing or repairing a crane axle box - this will be useful for beginning home craftsmen. Write, ask, communicate. And finally, according to the already established good tradition, we suggest watching a short but very informative video on today’s topic.

Expert advice

1. If the valve seat is damaged in the worm axle boxes (cracks, depressions or chips), the center element is completely changed.
2. A leak directly under the valve indicates the need to replace the seals.
3. The creaking of the faucet or the need to apply force when moving the handle or valve warns of the need to lubricate the valve head. This will prevent further damage.
4. The problem with the tightness of ceramic and ball axle boxes indicates the need for their complete replacement. Repairing the indoor unit is usually not possible.
5. When rubber gaskets wear out, it is enough to cut out the required element from dense rubber or buy it in a specialized store and replace them.

How are they different from each other and how are they structured?

Worm- or ceramic-type devices vary in diameter, depth and seating location.
One side of the faucet fits into the hole for water supply, the other sits on the inside of the handle.

Depending on the design of the handle, the number of edges on the axle box also differs.

There are universal “tricky” handles that are adapted for installing a 4-sided axlebox, and if it is necessary to change the spare part - the axlebox using the “asterisk” type of installation. The main difference between the two different valve axle boxes is the closing of the valve seat with a rubber or ceramic gasket. Also, the shelf life of rubber gaskets is shorter than ceramic ones.

Design of worm valve heads for mixers: what are they?

Devices of different types are equipped with a rod. If you turn the handle of the tap, it comes out. After such a movement, the gasket in the device (usually rubber) completely opens or partially closes the valve seat: the lumen of the pipe for supplying water flow narrows or expands.

This gasket is made from different types of rubber. The service life of the axlebox depends on the quality of the material used. Wear is accompanied by the appearance of a hum in the pipes (air walking) when the tap is turned on.

Advantages:

1. Low price.
2. Prevalence of sale in the domestic market.
3. Easy replacement.
4. You can make the rubber gasket yourself.

Flaws:

1. Short shelf life. Due to the fact that the rotation is carried out several times, the rubber wears out and breaks.
2. You need to turn it a couple of times to shut off the water.

If water is leaking at the base of the handle with a worm-type valve axle, there is no need to change it. For the faucet to work properly, it is enough to remove the rubber gasket and turn it over to the unworn side.

Installation of ceramic valve heads for bathroom faucets, shower stalls (faucets)

Ceramic parts also have a simple design. The body is made either from chrome-plated steel or metal and brass. The faucet consists of 2 ceramic inserts. One gasket is stationary, the other rotates in the rod, blocking the water gap. But the shape of the holes is always the same, they fit tightly to each other. To open the tap, you need to turn the handwheel once.

Ceramics are sensitive to water containing impurities. If hard water with alkalis or rust constantly flows, the gaskets will turn yellow and dry out. Due to diligence close to each other, unpleasant sounds begin to flow. Of course, you can sharpen the ceramic spacers to remove plaque, but it is much easier to buy a new faucet axle box.

Main advantages:

1. Operational life: from 3 years.
2. Quiet operation.
3. No effort is required when opening, just one half turn is enough.
4. Wide range for all possible stock variations.
5. Quiet operation of the crane.

Flaws:

1. The price is higher than the worm type rubber valve.
2. It is advisable to mount it on a faucet with an installed water purification filter.

What he really is?

What are the risks of breaking a faucet?
A breakdown of this unsightly but extremely important part, without which the faucet will turn into metal garbage, can result in serious problems for the homeowner.

Valve head dysfunction leads to:

• lack of water in the bathroom;
• inability to adjust the pressure of the water jet;
• uncontrolled temperature conditions;
• the inability to redirect water flows from one pipe to another;
• flood.

How long the mixer will last depends on the serviceability of the faucet axle. The reliability of this element depends not only on the materials used for its manufacture, but also on the technologies used in its creation.

When choosing such a part, first of all, the consumer must find out whether the diameter of the valve head corresponds to the corresponding parameters of the mixer. Equally important are the conditions in which the mixer and, accordingly, its components are operated.