What are water taps made of? How to identify a low-quality Chinese counterfeit faucet. Materials used in production

In theory, large quantities can be used to produce mixers various materials. However, in reality, for the manufacture of mixers that are not technically complex products, a limited range of materials is usually used - ceramics, plastic, and some metal alloys. It is extremely rare that models can be made of hard wood or stone. The choice of this particular list of materials is determined by their properties: strength, presentable appearance, ease of manufacturing products from them and actual safety of use. The price of ready-made faucets varies depending on the raw materials used.

Let's start the conversation about materials with plastic. In the manufacture of mixers, it has its pros and cons. The advantages of plastic include such characteristics as strength, lightness, ease of production, chemical neutrality to water, and low thermal conductivity. Speaking about the disadvantages of plastic, it should be admitted that in terms of service life it is inferior to both metals and ceramics, and although we noted its strength, this strength is very relative and it is again lower than that of other materials used to make faucets. It is optimal if the lever in a single-lever design or the valve handwheels are made of plastic.

Ceramics are more comfortable to the touch and much nicer than plastic. In addition, it is stronger and more durable, looks more elegant and expensive. But still, it is better to produce only individual parts for faucets from ceramics, but not to make them entirely from ceramics. There have been cases when, during operation without exposure to extra loads, the ceramic body of the mixer cracked and required immediate replacement. Of course, the reason for such situations could be hidden in a manufacturing defect or microcracks, but in any case, ceramic faucets cannot be considered absolutely reliable.

The most durable and widely used material in the manufacture of faucets is metal. The most common alloys from which faucet bodies are made are brass and bronze. These alloys are durable, have high strength, are also chemically neutral to the aquatic environment, do not overgrow from the inside, that is, they are little susceptible to various mineral contaminants. Faucets made of bronze and brass create almost no operational problems for users. The surface of such faucets is usually chrome plated. And adapters and fasteners In general, it is recommended to make them exclusively from these alloys.

Alloy steel is used somewhat less frequently in the manufacture of faucets, since it causes more difficulties in processing and is more susceptible to contamination during operation (of course, the latter also depends on the level of water pollution in the area). An alloy of silicon and aluminum - silumin - is considered the least suitable. Although it is affordable and very convenient to cast, it has low strength, which quickly decreases over the years, and therefore a rather short service life. Besides, appearance products made from it are also significantly inferior to bronze, brass and steel faucets. Therefore, if quality, elegance and durability are important to you, it is best to choose faucets made from traditional materials for your home.

It is impossible not to say a few words about coatings. There are two main types of coatings - enamel and chrome. Both enameled and chrome-plated parts protect materials well from corrosion, protect them from possible mechanical damage and look quite decent and presentable. Therefore, the choice between them is a matter of preference for each individual user.

Housing modern man It's hard to imagine without water. Comfort depends entirely on its presence. Especially if we're talking about about cold and hot water. But to use water, you need special devices, which are called mixers. They are the most different types, they are made from different materials. In addition, they have different level functionality. Therefore, many people are confused when they come to plumbing stores. The huge assortment baffles some. Let's try to understand the nuances of choosing the right bathroom faucet.

Nuances of choice

Mixers are divided into separate types according to the following parameters:

Appearance.
Functionality.
The material from which the body is made.
Decorative coating.
The presence of one or two levers.
Mounting method.
Vertical or horizontal type installations.
Spout shape and length.

In addition to these nuances, designs are classified by level of functionality into:

Those that are installed only on the sink.
Those that can simply supply water, or can switch to a shower.
Those that represent two individual element. One is in the form of a tap, and the other is in the form of a shower hose with a watering can. Each of these elements can work independently.

What are they made of?

Bath faucets are made from a variety of materials.

Brass structures. This material is recognized as the most suitable for the manufacture of faucets. He has quite high density. The structures made from it are very heavy. Often brass products are coated with compounds such as chromium and nickel for beauty. Experts are unanimous in their opinion that brass faucets, which are additionally protected with chrome, can last for many years while maintaining an attractive appearance. Naturally, in the case of the last nuance, proper care is required. In a word, such mixers have long term service, are not afraid of corrosion.
Faucets are also available in bronze.
As for silumin products, their quality leaves much to be desired. It is clear that they will not serve their owners for long.
If we talk about ceramic structures, they have almost everything internal elements made of the same brass. Such devices require special care.
Glass faucets come in transparent and colored varieties. They may have backlighting and so on.

Many faucets are coated with special materials that add beauty to the devices. In addition, additional coating can extend the life of the product. Such materials include:

Chromium.
Enamel.
Gilding.
Bronze.
Platinum.

Sometimes some elements of mixers are made from:

Chromed plastic.
Marble.
Crystal.
Malachite.

As for the type of fastening, mixers are divided into the following groups:

Built-in. Models of this type are usually mounted on the wall. In this case, the pipes are simply walled up. Such devices have certain disadvantages. So, such a mixer cannot be installed without cutting the walls for pipes. Subsequently, the grooves with laid pipes are sealed. It follows from this that if any problems with the pipes are discovered, the wall surface will have to be dismantled.
Mortise. Designs of this type are distinguished by the fact that they are installed directly on the end or side of the bathtub. In this case, all pipes are hidden directly under the bathtub. For installation of the shower and watering can, special sockets are made. If necessary, the watering can can be removed from the socket. This installation method is convenient and beautiful. However, if the shower head is pulled out of its socket too often, it will not last very long.
Floor-standing. Such products are attached to the floor surface. They are most often equipped in bathrooms. large sizes, in which the bath is placed directly in the center of the room or simply moved away from the wall at a certain distance. Of course, designs of this type look very stylish.

Now let's talk about the types of bathtub faucets.

Models with valves or valve

These products differ in that they have two valve handles. One of them opens the feed cold water, and the other is hot. These models are easy to recognize. They are used in most bathrooms. They are often called two-valve. This is easy to understand, because they have two valves in their design.

Valve mixers are classified as classic style, to retro and country styles. They have such advantages as simplicity of device, classic appearance and low price. In addition, such products are highly reliable. They tolerate contact well with hard chlorinated water. As for the disadvantages, these include the fragility of the sealing gaskets. Over time, they become unusable and the faucet leaks. Although this drawback can be easily eliminated by replacing the old gaskets with new ones. Also considered a disadvantage is the high water consumption, difficulty in adjusting the jet pressure and its temperature. This also leads to a certain inconvenience, which lies in the fact that the regulation must be carried out with both hands.

But now you can find more advanced models of valve-type mixers on sale. They are valves that are made of ceramics and have a rotation mechanism. Such products are two round-shaped plates. Their surface is perfectly smooth through holes. The valve can rotate ninety and one hundred and eighty degrees. This makes it much more convenient to set the water flow parameters.

Single lever or single lever models

These models have only one handle. It is she who regulates the water flow parameters. It is worth noting that the water temperature can be adjusted either separately or simultaneously. Such devices are also called one-armed and single-grip. If we consider the operating principle of these mixers, they are divided into ball and cartridge. The latter have become more widespread. If the control handle of a product is located horizontally, then it is called joystick.

The main advantages of single-lever designs are comfortable operation. They are very easy to operate with one hand. And such products can last for many years. True, the last factor strongly depends on what kind of water flows in the pipes, that is, on its quality. This is where the main disadvantage of single-lever models comes from. Thus, in urban networks, water enters apartments and houses with big amount garbage that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Because of this, mixers break down ahead of schedule. For this reason, when using single-lever products, it is better to install a water purification filter. After all, if a mixer of this type breaks, you will have to buy a new cartridge for it, the cost of which is quite high.

As with valve models, single lever mixers There are also improved models. They are distinguished by the presence of a function that allows you to save water. It consists of two operating modes. One mode is for saving, and the second supplies water with a strong flow. But in order to switch to it, you need to make some effort to overcome the resistance that arises when trying to fully open the lever.

Models with thermostats or thermostatic

Faucets that fall into this category supply water at a certain temperature. They are characterized by a high level of comfort in use. Thermostatic designs have two handles. With their help, the water temperature and flow strength are set. At the same time, if the temperature is set, then all that remains is to simply regulate the force of its supply. The temperature will remain unchanged. This is very convenient if there are small children in the family, as the possibility of getting burned is greatly reduced. Please note that if the temperature of the tap water does not match the temperature set by the user, the thermostat will definitely heat it up.

Non-contact models

Technology, as we know, does not stand still. Technological development has not spared the creation of mixers. The result is designs equipped with sensors infrared type, as well as a water supply mechanism without any mechanical action. Water flows if you simply place your hands under the spout of the faucet. You need to understand that such devices depend on the energy source. Based on this, they are:

Autonomous, that is, they operate on batteries that need to be changed from time to time.
Powered by electricity.

Contactless devices may have a display, but there are models on sale that are not equipped with one. Of course, the presence of a display adds comfort. It displays the temperature and strength of the water flow. Contactless products are often installed in public institutions. But they are also found in residential areas.

The main advantages of such structures include beautiful view, the opportunity to save water, high level comfort during use. However, they also have disadvantages. These include high cost and dependence on the power source.

Cascade models

Such mixers are distinguished by their originality. And all thanks to the unusual spout. It has an original flat shape. When water flows through it, the spout takes on the form cascading waterfall. Naturally, it looks very beautiful.

The advantages of cascade mixers are their beautiful appearance and high level of throughput. As for the disadvantages, there is only one and this, of course, is the high cost of such structures.

Electronic models

If we talk about electronic mixers, they are a combination best qualities non-contact and thermostatic models. They allow you to set the desired water temperature and its supply mode.

The advantages of such products include aesthetic appearance and high comfort use. At the same time, they save water. Among the disadvantages, of course, is the high cost. In addition, such models quickly fail if they are in constant contact with hard water. It is worth adding that electronic products require a power source.

Combined models

If we talk about combined products, they are distinguished by a rather long spout, which allows for the supply of water to the bathroom and washbasin. To do this, you just need to turn the spout in the desired direction. Please note that this faucet model belongs to the economy class.

How to spot a fake

Due to the fact that now many products, including faucets, are counterfeited, it makes sense to figure out how to distinguish a branded product from a counterfeit analogue.
First of all, you need to carefully examine electroplating. The presence of any scratches or black spots is unacceptable. Some manufacturers label their products for additional protection. This may be the company logo, which marks the handles of the faucets and the back surface of the body. Under no circumstances should you trust sellers who persuade you to purchase products without such labeling. In addition, branded faucets are sold in original packaging. Therefore, an ordinary “cardboard” or bag is evidence of counterfeit products.

A company name printed with a typo should also be alarming. Moreover, each branded product must have its own warranty card with addresses service centers. If there is no such coupon, then it is better to refuse to buy a mixer altogether.

In order to extend the service life of the mixer, it is advisable to install an additional filter for water purification. This is especially true for new buildings. Water enters them through new pipes, which, as a rule, contain quite a lot of garbage and various technical impurities. It is better to install in-line filters. Naturally, this process is expensive, but you will be sure of reliable operation mixer

Note that faucets tolerate contact with low-quality water well. domestic production, which are equipped with the usual rubber gaskets. Domestic models are even better because they can be disassembled and repaired. This number will not work with foreign analogues.

When purchasing a mixer Special attention you need to pay attention to the connecting pipes through which water will be supplied. Tubes can be rigid, made of copper or brass, or flexible, which are metal-polymer hoses. For hard tubes you need to buy an additional adapter. The latter are not always included with the mixer.

Video. Installing a GROHE bathroom faucet

The mixer today plays a bigger role than just a valve for shutting off the water. It brings aesthetic aspects and is integral decorative element and often acts as the highlight of a design solution.

It is important to approach the choice of a mixer with all responsibility, as it will serve you long years. The mixer must be made of quality material, not lose its attractiveness throughout its service life, be functional and durable. Let's take a closer look at the materials from which faucets are made.

From a theoretical point of view, many materials can be used to make faucets. But since the mixer is a fairly simple device, in practice this range is limited to metal alloys, plastics and ceramics. For the design of very expensive exclusive bathtubs, special stone or even wood can be used.

Its cost and performance characteristics, as well as appearance, so do right choice, without knowing the properties and characteristics of the material, it is quite difficult.

The mixer body is made of metal. The most commonly used metal alloys today are brass and bronze. Faucets made of this alloy are not exposed to the negative effects of water, so they can last for a very long time. In addition, on metal surfaces Mineral deposits accumulate less, that is, the mixer does not become overgrown from the inside. Brass is one of the best and most practical materials for the production of mixers.

Alloy steels are used a little less often than brass for the production of faucets, since if the water is too hard, they quickly become dirty.

Inexpensive faucets are made from simulin, which is an alloy of silicon and aluminum. Unfortunately, such faucets are short-lived, as they are quite fragile and subject to excessive contamination.

The best and most durable option is a bronze faucet with brass threads.

Plastic may be used to produce some faucet parts. Despite the fact that this material is inferior to metals, it has its obvious advantages, such as low thermal conductivity, lightness and strength, chemical neutrality, that is, lack of reaction with water.

Ceramics has almost the same properties as plastic, but has a more attractive appearance.

The faucet coating, which is designed to protect against corrosion, can be enameled or chrome plated.

Who and what is the faucet made of that supplies water to the sink, bathtub or shower hose? A question that cannot be ignored if you want to install in your bathroom/kitchen not only beautiful and comfortable, but also durable equipment that can properly perform its functions for many years.

What materials are mixers made from?

For real quality faucets are made from brass, a material that is a copper-based alloy. It accounts for up to 60%. Zinc is usually added to copper, and metals such as:

lead;
manganese;
nickel;
iron;
tin;
aluminum.

Brass is resistant to constant exposure to water and is safe for human body. There is one thing - before buying, you should ask about the lead content. The norm suggests 2.0–2.5%, but some manufacturers increase the presence of plumbum to 5-6%. This is not dangerous to health, but problems may arise when using the mixer. The risk of “hot” cracks increasing, leading to leaks or even bursting of the faucet.

What are sink and shower faucets made of besides brass? Chinese models are most often made from Zamak (in our country this composition is better known as TsAM). Its basis is zinc alloyed with aluminum, copper and magnesium. This material is much cheaper, so manufacturers can install low prices to the final product. But in terms of reliability and durability, Zamak is significantly inferior. Additives that are added to tap water, corrode the mixer body relatively quickly.

As a result, leaks will form that will need to be repaired. Typically, parts that are not in constant contact with water, such as handles, are made from TsAM. This alone allows you to seriously reduce the cost of the mixer without losing quality.

How to check - brass or Zamak?

It is not always possible to be sure that the model is made of brass. Some unscrupulous manufacturers “increase” the quality of their product by providing false information regarding its composition. Faucets made from Zamak are usually whiter and have a rougher surface. In addition, they are much lighter, although not in all cases. Cunning counterfeiters sometimes put a metal ball inside to weigh it down, so it’s better not to rely on weight.

In general, the original faucet for bath, shower or kitchen sink from a well-known brand contains an engraved or laser-printed logo. There is no such sign on fakes, since its application is too expensive and deprives the fraud of any meaning.

Sputtering

The answer to the question of what faucets are made of will be incomplete without mentioning the coating of the body and faucet. The surface of the device can be covered with almost any material, including:

chrome (Grohe Euroeco 32734000, Lemark Pramen LM3306C);
copper (Migliore Princeton ML.PRN-802 Ra, Edelform Mollis ML1812C);
bronze (Lemark Vintage LM2806B, Elghansa Retro 2702754);
gold (Cezares Elite LSM1-03/24-Bi, Migliore Prestige ML.PRS-744).

The quality of spraying plays an important role in the issue of durability. Most often, chrome is used, giving the mixer a modern appearance. If you are more interested in noble “antique”, check out the models covered with gold, bronze or copper. The surface of the product should be as smooth as possible. If, as a result of the inspection, unevenness, sagging, or even uneven color is observed, it is better to refrain from purchasing.

Execution and equipment

Naturally, it is not enough just to know what faucets are made of. The level of assembly does not always correspond to the quality of materials. Before purchasing, you should carefully inspect the body and faucet. Ask to disassemble the faucet as much as possible to evaluate the connecting parts. Threads and edges must be smooth and clearly defined, sealing gaskets must have a uniform texture.

When choosing a shower mixer, pay attention to the quality of the shower head and nozzles. For the production of the former, plastic is usually used, for the latter - silicone. These are non-toxic materials that are easy to clean and do not stain limescale. Naturally, before visiting a regular or virtual store, you should clarify the parameters water pipes and shower hose. This will save you additional headaches during the installation process.

For anyone who wants to purchase a bath/shower faucet that does not require repair or replacement after just a couple of months of use, we recommend products from well-known European brands. These include Jacob Delafon, Lemark, Grohe, Cezares, Geberit and Hansgrohe. Their products are always certified and supplemented detailed instructions and, most importantly, a two-year warranty is provided.

Due to the reliability and durability of ball valves, the market demand for them has increased. And high demand always gives rise to the production of fakes, the use of which can lead to accidents

And a legitimate question arises - How to distinguish a fake from the original?

Since counterfeits can lead to accidents and large material losses, this means that in terms of their performance
inferior to branded products, and sometimes very significantly. And what is the difference you will now find out.

The demand for ball valves is growing due to the perfection of their design, strict control chemical composition materials and production technology. And manufacturers of counterfeits ignore all these factors and, hiding behind famous brands, create something that looks similar to the original.

First of all, these are materials

Ball valves and valve bodies must be made of brass, the composition of which is regulated by the relevant GOST in Russia, and abroad - by the national standard. They provide for zinc content of up to 60%, lead in the range of 0.8–1.9%, copper 57–60%. Fake taps are made from non-ferrous scrap, and no one cares about the percentage of metals. And as a result, for example, the lead content can reach up to 5–7%, and this is harmful to human health.

Another type of counterfeiting is the use of more cheap material for the manufacture of housings - zinc. The use of such a crane is also dangerous. Due to its increased fragility, it can crack during mechanical stress or pressure changes. To this we can add the effect of chlorine in water on zinc, due to which the walls of the product become thinner and the tap less reliable. And the solution that is formed from chlorine and zinc - zinc chloride is a carcinogen. There are also taps made of aluminum alloy.

In pursuit of saving materials, faucet bodies are made thin - 0.5 - 1 mm, and reputable manufacturers make faucets with a wall thickness of 2 mm.

Mode of production

But this is not the only way to save money when faucets are faked. Leading manufacturers of ball valves produce them using hot forging or hot pressing. In order to save money, counterfeits are produced by casting. Therefore they differ from the original products uneven surface housing, sagging, and the material has a non-uniform structure resulting in poor reliability. Ball valves are also falsified, making them not from brass, but from steel, so they rust and the seal of the faucet is lost. And manufacturers of branded taps pay great attention to ball valves. Brass balls are diamond ground and then plated with nickel or chrome. As a result, the ball gets a perfect mirror surface. Fake balls have a dull and rough surface.

Experts note that there are fakes in which the design of the taps has been changed to reduce the cost of products at the expense of quality.

Read the company name carefully

Often the company name on products is written incorrectly, but similar to the original. One of the tricks is to change one letter Bogati instead of Bugatti; distortion of the logo by placing it, for example, not in a rhombus, but in a square or circle; country name ITALY instead of the accepted made in Italy. In addition, the labeling may lack one or another element that is mandatory for a particular manufacturer.

Advice

It is best to buy ball valves from official distributors of these companies.
If this is not possible, you can call official distributor and ask if he is an official supplier of the seller you are interested in.
Manufacturers often post drawings of their products on Internet sites. In addition, you can ask about the product’s markings, what it looks like, its dimensions, weight and other signs by which you can determine its authenticity.