One of the most important parts in a washing machine is the tank. A faulty tank can cause damage to other parts of the machine. The quality and durability of the tank depend on the material from which it is made. Before purchasing, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with what material served as the basis for creating the tank. To do this, just move the rubber of the hatch a little. If you need washing machine repair in Saratov or Engels, call our company. We will produce it as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Polymer tanks
Well-known brands of washing machines use their own designs to create tanks. Basically, these are polymers with various additives. Each washing machine manufacturer carries out its own developments and names its polymer substance. Tanks made of composite materials can last about 30 years , they are reliable and durable. The composition of polymer tanks ensures their resistance to chemicals. It is necessary to take into account that due to the lower price of a polymer tank, you can purchase a washing machine in an affordable price category.
Practical studies have shown that in terms of their physical properties, polymer tanks are significantly superior to metal tanks. Basically, these are hard materials that are resistant to high temperatures and alkalis and do not absorb moisture.
The weak point of all polymers is random objects that can get into the tank - buttons, nails and bolts. To extend the life of your washing machine, it is advisable to carefully check your clothing pockets before loading them. Polymer tanks are easier to repair.
Washing machine drum: perforated
On the side surfaces of any cylinder inside the tank you can observe many small holes called perforations.
This is necessary for water to flow from the tank to the drum and back during washing. But sometimes such holes can affect the wear and tear of the laundry. Why is this happening? The fact is that during washing, when the cylinder rotates, a centrifugal force acts on the things inside it, which seems to “press” them into these perforated holes. As a result, the fabric fibers wear out over time and the item wears out faster.
Important. At high spin speeds, fabrics wear out faster. Therefore, it is recommended to spin delicate items at the lowest speed, choosing the appropriate washing mode.
Manufacturers of washing machines are trying to change such situations for the better by developing special algorithms and operating programs for washing devices. By providing the best washing quality, they at the same time minimize the wear and tear of fabrics. For this purpose, manufacturers also make drums that have a special internal surface.
Honeycomb drums
Drums of this type were patented by Miele, so they cannot be found in washing machines from other manufacturers.
Features of Honeycomb Drums
The developers of this company turned their attention to the design of honeycombs, which are quite stable, although they are made of soft material. Manufacturers have used similar shapes for the surfaces of the cylinders of their washing units. They covered them inside with raised, specially stamped hexagons.
The perforation with such holes has a smaller diameter, which is why the washing solution lingers inside the drum for a longer time, and the fabric is practically not drawn into them, washing is much more gentle than usual. As the developers themselves say:
- cylinders of this type help reduce energy consumption;
- laundry is washed more carefully;
- There are no welded parts inside the drum, which means their service life is quite long.
Cell drums
Honeycomb washing machine drum with convex texture
Drip drums
The inner surface of this type of drum is not covered with honeycomb-like holes, but with special protrusions that are shaped like drops. This type of coating was developed by Bosch specialists. One side of these droplet protrusions is gently sloping, and the other is steeper. This coating principle is applied inside the drums, which are called VarioSoft. The developers have provided this:
- firstly, a delicate effect on fabrics (wool, silk) during washing when the cylinder rotates in one direction;
- secondly, a more intensive wash, removing all dirt on cotton or linen fabrics, when rotating the cylinder in the other opposite direction.
VarioSoft washing machine drums
Pearl Drum
"Pearl Drum" or pearl drum, designed for Hansa washing machines. It is named so because its internal surfaces are covered with protrusions in the form of hemispheres, similar to a scattering of pearls of different sizes. This was also done to prevent fabric fibers from being drawn into the holes on the surface of the cylinder. According to the developers, this perforation design should protect things from wear during spinning even at high speeds up to 1400 rpm.
Wave Drum
This type of perforation is a type of “Pearl Drum”, translated as “wave drum”. Its inner walls are covered with special hemispheres that bend in waves along the entire diameter. The developers claim that this design can improve the movement of laundry during washing inside the drum and protect fabrics from wear.
Diamond Drum
Samsung continued the idea of the Miele developers and created its high-tech advanced drum “Diamond Drum”, inside of which the perforations are located in small recesses resembling the shape of a pyramid. The reduced diameter of these holes prevents fabric fibers from being drawn through them, protecting items from wear and tear. Such “pyramids” are similar to the cutting of precious stones, which is why they got their name “Diamond Drum”.
Diamond Drum
Polyplex tanks
If the tank material is polyplex , then you can count on the machine’s resistance to high temperatures, corrosion and chemicals. Like any other composite materials, polyplex absorbs vibration well, thereby increasing the soundproofing properties of the machine.
The high thermal conductivity of the material contributes to more economical energy consumption. Also, polyplex tanks are among the cheapest.
The disadvantages of polyplex include fragility, especially at low temperatures. See also: What to do if the washing machine does not spin the drum.
Bottom line
This article detailed the characteristics of the washing machine tank. As you can see, the material of manufacture is of great importance.
From the above we can conclude that the most common and optimal type of washing machines are those equipped with a plastic drum.
In any case, an expert characteristic will help to objectively assess the price-quality ratio of the offered units. In general, by understanding the differences between appliances made from different types of materials, the consumer will be more confident and will be able to choose a product that will last a long time and reliably.
See also:
- 10 best Electrolux washing machines according to customer reviews
- 10 best ATLANT washing machines according to customer reviews
- 10 best built-in washing machines
- 10 best washing machines under 15,000 rubles according to customer reviews
- 10 best washing machines under 25,000 rubles according to customer reviews
Carborane tanks
Many modern manufacturers of washing machines prefer carborane. This composite material is able to combine the advantages of both polymers and stainless steel. The carboran tank material is environmentally friendly, not susceptible to corrosion, and has high heat and sound insulation properties. Carborane is resistant to chemical and mechanical stress.
Carborane is used not only to create tanks, but also for other parts of the washing machine. Compared to polyplex, carborane is a more durable material, characterized by high ductility, strength and reliability. In general, this polymer is in no way inferior to stainless steel tanks.
Metal
Enameled metal tanks have long ceased to be produced for washing machines. They have decent reliability, and the enamel protects against corrosion. The weight of such devices is very large. The products are durable and are not subject to splitting during transportation and temperature changes, unlike plastic elements.
As a result of prolonged use, chips may appear from impacts of foreign objects in the drum. When damaged, the enamel ceases to perform a protective function and begins to crumble, become rusty and crumble. The part becomes damaged as a result of corrosion and begins to leak. In such cases, replacement of the spare part or the entire unit is required.
Nowadays metal tanks are not produced, so if you have a similar problem with an old model of washing machine, it is better to change it to a more modern one.
Plastic tanks
Plastic tanks are considered one of the most budget-friendly. A washing machine whose tank material is plastic is much more economical than other models. Due to high thermal conductivity, it is possible to save energy. Another advantage of such machines is that they are much quieter than machines with steel or polymer tanks.
The disadvantages of plastic tanks include their unreliability and short service life. Under the right conditions of using a washing machine, a plastic tank can last up to ten years. The main disadvantage of such tanks is their high fragility. The tank is easily damaged even during transportation.
Particular attention should be paid to gray plastic. Experience shows that this material is capable of deformation and drying out under the influence of high temperatures.
Metal
Enameled steel was previously used as metal for tanks. This material is not very suitable for washing machines. When carrying or during washing, the surface may chip. Rust appears in this place, and later there is a hole and a leak.
For this reason, such tanks are not currently produced. They are only found in old cars. If the tank in such a device leaks, practically nothing can be done. Alternatively, use a welding machine. But such a decision is very controversial. It's better to buy a new car.
I work in the household appliance repair industry. Extensive experience in restoring washing machines and dishwashers.
Stainless steel tanks
One of the most expensive are stainless steel tanks . The service life of such a tank can be hundreds of years, which is several times longer than the service life of the highest quality washing machine. But at the present stage, finding a car made of high-quality stainless steel is almost impossible.
The high cost of such tanks is due to the fact that stainless steel requires the use of high-tech processing methods and considerable costs, for example, the use of special welding. Inexpensive washing machines with a stainless steel tank have a short service life - they are less resistant to damage and rust quickly.
The disadvantage of stainless steel tanks is their high noise level during operation and high cost.
A more budget-friendly version is combined tanks made of stainless steel and plastic. Stainless steel is used to make the back cover of the tank, the rest is made of plastic. The back cover is usually made without stiffeners and has a smooth surface. Thanks to this shape, the strength characteristics of the tank are improved and the formation of biofilm is avoided. The service life of such a tank is slightly shorter than that of a tank made of stainless steel.
Enameled coating
Not so long ago, manufacturers produced cars with enamel tanks. But such models did not work for long. If even a tiny crack appeared on the enamel coating, the metal underneath was subject to rust.
This option - enameled metal - has a number of features, positive and negative. Their details are given below:
Positive sides
- Reliable operation when placing any laundry.
- The enamel produces a protective layer. And it protects the metal from the effects of corrosion.
- What material can containers be made of that can be confidently called strong? This is a twofold question. During transportation, the likelihood of damage is very low. And with significant temperature changes they do not split.
Negative
- An impressive mass.
- The container is not shockproof.
- With very long use, chips form on the container. These are the consequences of impacts from foreign objects. In damaged areas, the enamel crumbles. The defensive layer disappears. Without it, the metal becomes rusty and destroyed. After a certain period, leaks are observed. And the owners must either replace such a tank or purchase new equipment.
It should be noted that containers from this variant are no longer produced. There have been too many accidents when using them. And to create tanks they began to use plastic or a stainless steel base. Which tank is the best of these options is a controversial question.
