Ceramic cartridge for the mixer: the device and types

The cartridge is an internal part of the mixer. It gives the opportunity to monitor the operation of the entire mechanism. Cartridges can be spherical or equipped with ceramic plates. This article will tell about the device, types and principle of operation of the second variant.

Ceramic cartridge - a part that works by two ceramic plates. When the mixer valve turns, the plates mix water of different temperatures. And when the top plate changes its position, the pressure of the supplied water increases.

With such a device, you can forget about gaskets, which have to be changed frequently. The cartridge is designed in such a way that there are no seals between the plates.This means that this model will last much longer. In addition, the operation of this mechanism is carried out smoothly and silently, which is a great advantage compared with ball models. And the most significant advantage is that if there is an installed filter, it is the ceramic cartridge that can last for about 10 years without breakdowns.

Ceramic cartridge should be regularly lubricated. This is due to the fact that the plates constantly rub against each other and eventually wear out. Thanks to the lubricant, the lever rotates easily. If there is a feeling that when turning the knob, it starts to work more slowly than usual, it means that it is time to lubricate the parts. After several manipulations with the lubricant, the faucet will turn again in the usual mode. Do not forget that over time, the lubricant can be washed off with water. Therefore, you need to ensure that the space between the plates is constantly filled.

There are several types of lubricants for ceramic cartridges. These include silicone, teflon grease and cyatim-221. Each of them has its own advantages and can be used not only for mixers. The best and therefore the most expensive is silicone grease.However, in no case should it be confused with silicone sealant.

Ceramic cartridges vary in:

• diameter;
• landing;
• height.

Sometimes models are also distinguished by the length of the rod, but this is done very rarely.

First of all, you should pay attention to the difference in diameter. When choosing a mixer in the store, you can see that almost the same models have different prices. It largely depends on the size of the cartridge that is inside. Models with a diameter of 40 mm are more wear-resistant and have high performance. If we talk about the details of the size of 20 or 25 mm, you need to be prepared for the fact that this model will serve a little less. In addition, the cost of parts with a smaller diameter can be significantly higher. This is due to the features of the models and the availability of additional features.

First of all, it is recommended to disassemble the old faucet and see which model of the cartridge was supplied to it by the manufacturer. Since companies can complete mixers with different elements, it is better not to risk choosing a similar cartridge in the store, but to take the defective part with you and show it to a consultant.You should also pay attention to the availability of documents that show whether the product is of high quality, whether it has been tested by pressure. If there are no such documents, then the good quality of the cartridge for the mixer is out of the question.

In addition to the diameter, width, height and other parameters, you should pay attention to where the mixer stands. For example, in the shower it is better to put the switching Nami, which will perfectly cope with its task. It is also better to know in advance about the features of products manufacturers who can offer decent options for parts. It is important to assess the ratio of price and quality, versatility, reliability and long-term models.

In spite of the fact that parts made of ceramics in single-lever mixers serve for a rather long time, their serviceability may end a little earlier than the established period.

This may be due to a number of reasons that arise during use.

• non-compliance of water quality with the requirements specified by the manufacturer;
• the presence of various impurities in the liquid that enters the valve (impurities appear due to the oxidation of the metal and significantly impair the operation of the cartridge);
• violation of the instruction manual details;
• salt deposits.

To prevent damage to the mixer, it is better to take care of the stable operation of the cartridge at the stage of its installation. Earlier in the article, a filter was mentioned that helps to extend the service life of parts. It is he who makes it possible to get rid of impurities that fall into the plates and disrupt the work of the latter. Some manufacturers even require the filter to be installed. Otherwise they simply refuse warranty service.

Replacing the ceramic cartridge does not require special skills. You do not even need to call to the house of the master.

To insert a new part into the mixer, removing the faulty one, several simple manipulations should be carried out:

• turn off the hot and cold water;
• use a hex or screwdriver to remove the screw that is under the plug and hold the mixer handle;
• remove the handle and then the ring;
• unscrew the clamping nut and the defective cartridge with a wrench;
• change the part to serviceable and do everything listed in the reverse order.

Knowing what a ceramic cartridge is for a mixer, as well as what types exist, it is easy to choose the right model. The main thing - to adhere to the recommendations of choice and pay attention to the quality of the purchased products.

Video instructions for replacing the cartridge in the mixer are shown below.