Kitchen faucet structure: what do typical faucets consist of and how do they work?

A kitchen faucet is an actively used appliance. It keeps the water closed, and when open it mixes the cold stream with the hot one and sets the pressure.These factors, together with incorrect handling, contribute to rapid wear. Therefore, when choosing, you need to take into account not only the appearance, but also the reliability of the product, agree.

In order to purchase a reliably working product, you need to know the structure of a kitchen faucet. In addition, this information will help you understand how difficult or simple the repair will be. Will the owner be able to troubleshoot problems Or will I need to call a plumber?

You will learn everything about the design features of kitchen faucets from our article. We have described in detail the varieties presented to the consumer by the market. For visual perception of the information, we have attached diagrams, a selection of photos and video repair instructions.

Division by materials of manufacture

The name “mixer” directly indicates the main function of this plumbing equipment – ​​mixing water. The device is connected to cold and hot water supply pipes, and its task is to supply water in the required proportion.

Adjustment is carried out manually by the user. In addition to adjusting the temperature, the mixer also adjusts the pressure of the water stream.

Mixer - a device that combines two taps in a single body, connected by separate pipes to the hot water and hot water pipelines

Materials used in production

A modern kitchen faucet can be made from the following materials:

• metal alloys (bronze, brass, silumin);
• polymers;
• ceramics.

A metal faucet is the most popular option for use in the kitchen. Brass and bronze do not oxidize or corrode from regular contact with water. In addition, these materials are chemically neutral, which means that deposits of mineral salts do not occur on their surface.

Metal plumbing fixtures have become widespread due to their good performance characteristics and durability.

Mixers made of silumin - an alloy of aluminum and silicon - are considered less reliable. As a rule, inexpensive models made in China or Turkey are made from this material. Due to its low cost, this alloy has become very popular in the plumbing products market.

The glossy coating hides the yellow metal - this is brass, an alloy of zinc and copper with high corrosion resistance characteristics

Faucets made of polymers are cheaper and easier to manufacture than metal models. They also do not react with water and are not affected by its mineral composition. In addition, the low thermal conductivity of plastic makes it possible to use it at relatively high water temperatures.

The main disadvantage of this material is its fragility, so polymers are less often used for the manufacture of critical parts of the mixer, using them mainly for the production of flywheels and control levers.

Ceramics is a time-tested material that is now successfully used for the manufacture of faucets. Modern taps use metal alloys, such as cermets.

As for their chemical properties, you will not see any signs of corrosion or salt deposits, however, according to physical criteria, the devices have a number of disadvantages.

The white ceramic faucet in the kitchen fits well into the cold Scandinavian interior, combined with the cladding of the kitchen facade and the glass “apron”

It is very difficult to make a faucet entirely from ceramics, so it is used in combination with other materials, in particular brass. Ceramics are fragile, and the metal-ceramic element can crack not only from mechanical stress, but also from a simple sudden temperature change.

Types of coating - protection and aesthetics

The materials from which the main structural elements of the mixer are made affect its operation, and the attractive appearance and protection of the body are ensured by the coating.

Modern manufacturers cover kitchen plumbing equipment in the following ways:

• PVD;
• chromium;
• bronze;
• nickel;
• enamel;
• powder paint.

The most prestigious and expensive option is PVD - vacuum deposition. This type of coating guarantees a long service life even under the most extreme operating conditions. The strength of PVD is comparable to the strength of sapphire, so in everyday use the mixer is not afraid of any scratches or abrasions.

If the manufacturer calls the finish of the plumbing equipment matte or designates it as “stainless steel”, most likely nickel plating was used, and in the photo - gold spraying

Powder coating is also a durable, aesthetic and expensive option. Used in finishing premium faucets. Thanks to high temperature treatment (about 180 degrees), the paint is very firmly fixed to the product.

The most common type of coating for kitchen faucets is chrome plating. Chrome is an inexpensive and very effective metal for protecting the faucet body and looking very attractive.

Chrome products can be glossy or matte.The only condition is sufficient thickness of the coating. A chromium layer less than 6 microns wears off very quickly and does not look aesthetically pleasing.

Classification of mixers by type of design

There are two main types of kitchen faucets:

• two-valve;
• single lever.

They are radically different in structure and principle of operation. The difference can be understood by reading the name. A two-valve faucet has two flywheels (valves) to adjust the pressure and proportions of water, and single lever device Both functions are performed by one switch - a lever.

In addition to the above-mentioned traditional options for kitchen faucets, touch-sensitive faucets are gaining popularity, which supply water automatically if you bring your palms to them. When choosing between these options, you need to initially know how they work.

Two-valve model device

A two-valve mixer, by and large, is two separate taps combined in one body and equipped with one spout. Hot and cold water are regulated independently of each other.

The main disadvantage of this design is that each time you have to re-adjust the position of the flywheels to obtain water at the desired temperature.

One of the most common models of two-valve faucets is a herringbone faucet for the kitchen with a high spout (a low spout is preferable for the bathroom)

The design of a two-valve mixer is as follows:

• valve heads (faucet axle boxes);
• valves;
• frame;
• spout;
• aerator.

The housing is installed in a hole made in the kitchen sink, and a rubber or plastic gasket is placed at the junction to seal it. The design of a two-valve kitchen faucet depends on what type of shut-off elements (faucet axle boxes) are used.

If the valve head mechanism, which locks and regulates the flow of water, includes ceramic discs, then it should not be installed in water pipes without strainers. If grains of sand get into the gap between the disks, the device will jam and will have to be disassembled and cleaned frequently.

At the moment, two options for the design of the “controls” of such a mixer are used in everyday life:

• with ground ceramic discs that rotate relative to each other within a limited segment;
• with valve heads performing rotational or reciprocating movements.

The type and structure of the crane box determines the simplicity and ease of use of the crane, as well as its service life.

Water leaks through the valve head of the first option occur due to a leaky o-ring (6); in the second option, the valve gasket (12) most often wears out.

You can eliminate leaks in valve options yourself without much difficulty. The predominant number of such breakdowns occurs due to leaky rubber seals, which simply need to be replaced.

The design of a valve tabletop mixer can be divided into two parts: the first is located above the sink, the second is located under it. Most top failures occur due to broken or improperly installed seals.

At the bottom of the valve mixing device, the pin basically falls out of the rod, which causes water to flow from the hot pipe to the cold pipe and vice versa.

Structure of a crane axle box based on metal ceramics

A valve head with ceramic discs as a shut-off mechanism allows/blocks the flow of water depending on the position of the holes in these plates. When they are combined, water flows. The larger the contact area, the greater the water flow. To turn off the water, the valve must be turned so that the holes do not coincide with each other.

To imagine how a metal-ceramic type axle box works, look at its design.

The structure of the crane box looks like this:

• frame;
• stock;
• rod clamp;
• turn signal;
• top plate;
• bottom plate;
• elastic gasket.

The rod is inserted into the brass body using a clamp. If everything is done correctly, at the moment of fixation you will hear a characteristic click. The valve is placed on the stem. The turn signal is responsible for transmitting torque from the valve to the plates.

The turn signal can also be metal, but often the manufacturer saves on this part and it is made of plastic. Of course, metal models are more reliable and durable.

Externally, crane axle boxes of this type differ in color. The one with the blue ring is placed on the valve with cold water, and the one with the red ring is placed on the valve with hot water.

A rubber or plastic gasket is located at the junction of the faucet axle and the mixer body. If it is damaged or does not fit well, water begins to flow from under the valve. The function of the gasket is to securely fit the faucet housing and the mixer body.

Design of a threaded crane axle box

A threaded valve axle works on a different principle. Its design is as follows:

• stock;
• union;
• valve;
• rubber gasket;
• frame.

The principle of operation of this model of valve head is that while the valve is rotating, the gasket is pressed or pushed out, respectively, closing or opening the valve. A fitting with a thread at the end is responsible for the translational movement of the rod on which the gasket is located.

This is the easiest design to understand, so in most cases you can handle its repairs yourself.

The main advantage of this model is the simple replacement of the rubber gasket if it wears out. But the main drawback is the need to perform this operation much more often than we would like. In addition, to use a mixer with such faucet axle boxes, you will have to turn the valve several turns, which complicates the process of adjusting the water temperature.

Due to the specific operation of valve mixers, the element of the system most susceptible to wear is the gasket, which ensures a tight fit of the flow-blocking device to the water supply channel.

Let's consider the standard option for replacing the crane-axlebox seal:

You will find an overview of the best options for kitchen faucets and ratings of products on the market in another popular article our site.

Single lever mixer device

A single lever mixer is a more modern and practical option for the kitchen.

The main advantages of this model:

• ease of operation - can be adjusted with one hand;
• speed of temperature and pressure adjustment - significantly affects the readings of water meters;

The mixer “remembers” the position of the handle for a comfortable temperature.

To understand the principle of operation of a single-handle mixer, you need to understand its structure.

Single lever mixer elements

Design of a single lever kitchen faucet:

• frame;
• switch lever;
• spout;
• cartridge;
• aerator.

Standard faucets of this type mix water by turning the switch handle in a horizontal plane, and the water pressure is mixed by moving it in a vertical plane. The aerator ensures a uniform supply of water at the outlet by mixing the water jet with air.

An exploded view of the faucet, showing all the smallest parts, including the ball, gaskets and springs

The main functional element is a cartridge, which is analogous to a crane axle box. A ball or disk type locking mechanism is placed in a plastic case.

Ball valve design

The ball-type cartridge is based on a metal hollow sphere with three holes. Two of them are used for water inlet (cold and hot), and the third is for water outlet at the desired temperature. The ball connects directly to the handle and changes its position along with it.

This is what the main character looks like - a smooth stainless steel ball with special holes for water and fasteners

When rotated, the holes on the ball may, to one degree or another, coincide with the holes in the cartridge. In this way, both the pressure and temperature of the water in the kitchen are regulated. Mixers of this type are now less common. This is due to the complexity of producing such models, their high cost and frequent failure.

Operating principle of a disk cartridge

The principle of a ceramic disc cartridge for a lever mixer is the same as that of a ceramic faucet in a two-valve version. The base is two ceramic plates, one of which is movable and rotates when the position of the lever changes.

A cartridge with ceramic discs looks like a single system; all its internal elements are hidden under a cylindrical plastic body

If the holes on the upper and lower disks coincide, water flows into the spout; if not, it closes off.

The cartridge is based on white ceramic discs, characterized by ideal surface grinding to ensure maximum adherence.

Such cartridges using metal ceramics are most often used in single-lever faucets in kitchens.

Regardless of design features and methods of water supply installation of kitchen faucets, connection to water supply branches is made in a similar manner.

Automatic faucet - touchless use

If the operation of a single-lever or two-valve mixer is based on pure mechanics, then an automatic faucet works thanks to electronics.

Its structure is much more complicated:

• frame;
• sensor;
• thermostat;
• membrane on a spring;
• solenoid with detent;
• shielding coil;
• spring core;
• sealing material.

The solenoid is an inductor. A membrane that blocks the flow of water is located at the end of the core.

When the sensor is triggered, voltage is applied to the solenoid, the coil lifts the core, it is drawn into the cavity of the solenoid, thus lifting the membrane and opening the way for water. When the power supply is stopped, the opposite occurs: the core lowers and the membrane returns to its original position.

In the diagram you can easily see how the main components are connected to each other: coils, tip, core, solenoid, membrane, housing

An automatic faucet requires a battery. You can use a connection to an eclectic network by converting the current through a transformer, but this is an unnecessary installation complication. Batteries or accumulators are most often used. Automation in the kitchen is a good idea.

When cooking, you often get your hands dirty, for example, when working with dough. Turning on the water without touching the valve will help keep the kitchen clean.

An automatic kitchen faucet with touch control is not equipped with the usual levers and valves. The choice of jet pressure and temperature is made by lightly touching the right/left side of the housing. In addition to touch sensors, there are models with a mechanical miniature regulator

Additional functionality and features

In addition to design differences, kitchen faucets can be of completely different models.

They must have a number of design features that make this faucet ideal for the kitchen, namely:

• high spout;
• possibility of rotation;
• directing the jet to the center of the sink;
• retractable hose.

A high spout will be very useful in the kitchen, as there is often a need to collect water in a high container, such as a bucket or jug. Another condition is that water enters the center of the sink. This is convenient for washing dishes. Tasks in the kitchen can be very different, so it would be nice if the faucet spout could be rotated.

A good faucet can be equipped with a dispenser for liquid soap or detergent, an aerator, a flexible hose or other device that expands the functionality

The presence of a retractable hose in the design of a kitchen faucet will make the faucet more practical and mobile. With this innovation, you can easily fill a bucket of water that is on the floor or wash large dishes from all sides.

No professional kitchen faucet is complete without a pull-out spout. In the photo - a dynamic watering can with an extended working area

Some faucets are equipped with additional functionality, for example, the ability to switch a direct stream to a drip mode or the presence of an additional outlet for supplying filtered water.

Features of repairing faucets in the kitchen

In fact, you are unlikely to need the internal structure of the faucet until your faucet fails. Then there is an urgent need to disassemble it and look for damage.

And if you prepare in advance and study the algorithm for disassembling the mixer before a malfunction occurs, you can save time and nerves by being prepared for unforeseen situations.

Disassembling a single lever mixer

In order to disassemble single lever mixer and get to his device, you must follow these simple instructions.First, turn off the water supply - turn off the water. To unscrew the mixer body, you need to remove the decorative plug (often looks like a round red-blue insert).

A decorative plastic insert hides an unaesthetic screw. Some parts of the mixer are specially made removable to provide access to the main operating parts during repairs.

Behind the plug you will see a screw connecting the lever and the rod. You need to unscrew it with a screwdriver. After this, you can remove the control knob. The next step is to unscrew the locking ring. To do this, you need to use an adjustable or gas wrench.

If the nut does not unscrew, you can gently tap the key with a hammer in the direction of movement, this should help

Now you have access to the cartridge, you can take it out and replace it if necessary.

After diagnosing or repairing or replacing, you need to perform all steps in reverse order. In plumbing, it is important not to “tighten” threaded connections, but they should not “walk” either.

Repair of a mixer with two valves

A two-valve mixer is disassembled according to the following diagram:

1. As in the first case, turn off the water.
2. Remove the valve plug that covers the screw. Unscrew it and remove the flywheel in need of repair, or both.
3. Under the valve you will see a nut that secures the valve axle. You need to unscrew it using a wrench.
4. Having gained access to the crane box, it can be removed and inspected visually. Particular attention is paid to the seal; if the gasket is damaged or deformed, it must be replaced.

When the inspection is completed, all the parts are put together in the same order.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Disassembling a tap with two valves with a detailed examination of the device:

The video shows the device and principle of operation of the cartridge, as well as the process of assembling the mixer:

Understanding the faucet design is very important not only when choosing the right model for your kitchen. Plumbing equipment is used regularly and tends to break down. Knowing the design of the faucet from the inside, you will be able to detect a malfunction and repair the faucet yourself.

Would you like to share the secrets of choosing a faucet for installation on a kitchen sink that only you know? Do you have any questions or find controversial issues? Please write comments in the block below.