In this module, we will introduce the ALPHA pump’s proportional pressure AUTOADAPT control mode for heating applications.
You’ll gain a workable knowledge of what it is, why it is important in thermostatic radiator valve systems, and how it  compares to traditional circulators.

First, let’s explore what proportional pressure AUTOADAPT is.

ALPHA pumps offer three AUTOADAPT settings:
proportional pressure AUTOADAPT, constant pressure AUTOADAPT, and constant curve AUTOADAPT. AUTOADAPT is an intelligent technology that allows pumps to adjust to external factors, such as changes in consumption patterns and system load... It constantly analyzes the system it is part of and determines the right setpoint based on the information gathered. This ensures optimal comfort at the lowest possible cost at all times.

AUTOADAPT is the optimal setting for your customers. All you need to do is install the circulator and let the advanced technologies take care of the rest. With proportional pressure pumps automatically adjust the speed up or down in order to maintain a constant pressure at each of the thermostatic radiator valves, while compensating for pressure losses in the system. Proportional pressure is suited to two-pipe radiator heating systems with thermostatic radiator valves where there are relatively large pressure losses in the system’s distribution pipes.

Now let’s see how traditional circulators compare to ALPHA pumps with proportional pressure. In traditional circulators, the pump will operate along a constant speed curve when there are changes in demand due to valves opening or closing. When valves close, the flow and head at the other TRVs will increase. The increased resistance leads to excessive power consumption by the pump. Also, it could result in noise issues in the system due to increased head. The ALPHA pump’s proportional pressure ensures a relatively constant pressure at each TRV via a sloped curve independent of how many TRVs in the system are open. When the flow demand is low, the system sees less pressure loss from the resistance in the distribution pipe and reduces speed along the proportional pressure curve and vice versa.

The issue many installers face is selecting which proportional pressure curve to use. This is where Proportional Pressure AUTOADAPT comes into play. AUTOADAPT will start with the same setpoint as proportional pressure 2. When the pump operates with a high demand for an extended period of time, the curve will shift upward to make sure it’s delivering optimal comfort. Conversely, when the pump operates with a low demand for an extended period of time, the curve will adjust itself down in order to save on energy consumption while maintaining comfort. At the push of a button, installers can ensure the optimal combination of comfort and energy savings to the homeowner without having to worry about selecting the right curve.

That covers our introduction to proportional pressure AUTOADAPT.